Meet Bowie, the Bowmouth Guitarfish

On the morning of 23rd February 2011, the Sea World Aquarium staff introduced a Bowmouth Guitarfish into the Open Ocean exhibit.

The Bowmouth (fondly named Bowie after legendary musician David Bowie) was brought into the Sea World hospital on 3rd January 2011 after being caught in the nets at Winklespruit and suffering damage to his tail. Fortunately, Bowie responded well to treatment and, within a few weeks, his damaged tail had healed to the point where staff were no longer anxious about his chances of recovery.

Staff were also pleased to discover that the newest edition to the uShaka family found the smell of crabs irresistible - eagerly taking food from the staff shortly after arriving. Although Bowie only weighs 20kgs and measures 1.2m, he is causing a big stir in the Aquarium as guests wonder - is he a bony fish, ray or shark - or something from outer space?