The common guitarfish showcases a remarkable appearance and distinctive features. It typically reaches a length of about 80 cm (30 in), although it can grow up to an impressive 147 cm (58 in). Its dorsal surface boasts a beautiful khaki-brown coloration, contrasting with its white underparts. While closely related to the blackchin guitarfish (Glaucostegus cemiculus), the common guitarfish possesses several distinguishing characteristics, such as larger eyes, more widely separated rostral ridges, a longer front nasal lobe, and a wider back nasal flap.
This captivating species of guitarfish inhabits a specific range within the vast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Its presence can be observed from the Bay of Biscay in the north Atlantic to Angola, as well as in the southern Mediterranean Sea. The common guitarfish can be found leisurely cruising just above the seabed, occasionally resting on the sandy or muddy substrate and partially covering itself with sediment.
The common guitarfish has evolved as a benthic fish, adapted to its sandy or muddy seabed habitat. It actively forages for sustenance, which primarily consists of crustaceans, other invertebrates, and fish. This species demonstrates an intriguing reproductive strategy known as ovoviviparity. Throughout the year, the female guitarfish gives birth to one or two litters of live young, with each litter containing four to ten fish. The gestation period lasts approximately four months, during which the developing embryos obtain nourishment from their yolk sacs initially and later from uterine secretions provided by their mother.
The unique characteristics and ecological requirements of the common guitarfish render it particularly vulnerable to human activities, especially due to its preference for shallow coastal waters. Overfishing, primarily as bycatch, poses a significant threat to this species across its range. In certain regions, such as the northern Mediterranean, the common guitarfish and its close relative, the blackchin guitarfish (Rhinobatos cemiculus), have disappeared entirely and are presumed to be locally extinct. Similar trends are observed in the Balearic Islands, where their presence has diminished. The common guitarfish encounters bycatch from international shrimp trawling vessels, cephalopod fisheries employing trawling methods, and local artisanal gill net fishermen off the coasts of West Africa. The demand for its meat, which can be salted and exported, and its fins, which are sold to Asia, further contribute to its population decline. Despite being occasionally landed in the less intensively fished southern Mediterranean, the majority of these fish are immature. To ensure the long-term survival of this species and the sustainability of fisheries, it is crucial to allow adult fish to reach maturity and breed. Presently, the common guitarfish holds a conservation status of "critically endangered" according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.