The Atlantic Stingray (Hypanus sabinus) is a common and widely distributed species of stingray found in the western Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its distinctive diamond-shaped body and venomous spine located on its tail. These rays are typically found in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, playing an important role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
The Atlantic Stingray, Hypanus sabinus, is characterized by a flattened, diamond-shaped body with a short, pointed snout. Its dorsal surface is typically brown or grayish, often with darker spots or blotches. The ventral surface is white or yellowish. The stingray possesses two large pectoral fins that are fused to its head, giving it a wing-like appearance. These fins are used for locomotion, allowing the ray to glide effortlessly through the water. The most distinguishing feature of this species is the venomous spine located on its tail, which serves as a defense mechanism against predators. Adult Atlantic Stingrays can reach a maximum size of 61.0 cm in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Atlantic Stingray, Hypanus sabinus, is commonly found in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, with a depth range of 2.0 to 25.0 meters. It is a benthic species, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the ocean floor. The species is particularly common in the neritic zone, the region of the ocean that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, where they can easily burrow and hide from predators. This species is found along the Atlantic coast of North America, from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Taxonomy
The species Hypanus sabinus belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Myliobatiformes, and Family: Dasyatidae. This classification places it within the group of cartilaginous fishes, which includes sharks, rays, and skates. Hypanus sabinus is part of the Dasyatidae family, which contains a diverse range of stingrays known for their venomous tail spines.
Feeding
The Atlantic Stingray, Hypanus sabinus, is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on a variety of invertebrates and small fish. Its diet consists of amphipods, clams, crustaceans, invertebrates, starfish, worms, and zoobenthos. The ray uses its sensitive electroreceptors to locate prey buried in the sand, then uses its powerful jaws to crush and consume its food.
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