Revised Geographic Distribution of the Pacific Guitarfish Pseudobatos planiceps Based on Occurrence Records and Species Distribution Modelling

Historical reports place the Pacific guitarfish ( Pseudobatos planiceps ) from Mexico to Chile, but taxonomic confusion has obscured its range. We compiled verified occurrence records and applied a species distribution model. Our analysis reveals a severely restricted distribution limited to southern Ecuador, Galapagos, Peru, and northern Chile. No evidence supports its presence in Central America or northern South America. This smaller range, combined with significant fishing pressure and lack of management, indicates a much higher extinction risk than currently assessed, demanding an urgent re‐evaluation of its conservation status and species‐specific protective actions.