Rhinoptera bonasus is one of fifteen species of elasmobranch fishes recorded in the Indian River Lagoon (Snelson and Williams 1982). The dorsal side is brown to olive lacking spots or other markings. The ventral side of the cownose ray is white or yellowish-white with brown edges. The pectoral fins, sometimes referred to as wings, are long and pointed. The square shaped projecting snout has an indentation in the center giving the impression that it is bi-lobed. Two small fins (rostra) project from the head. The mouth is small and located on the ventral side of the ray. The tail is whip-like with a spine at the base just posterior to a small dorsal fin. A defensive venomous barb is located at the base of the spine. Species of cownose ray are sometimes only distinguishable by the morphology and number of teeth.