The Crossback Stingaree, Cross-back Stingaree, Crossbacked Stingaree, Cross-backed Stingaree, Banded Stingaree, scientifically known as Urolophus cruciatus, is a species of stingray found in the coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
Urolophus cruciatus is a relatively small stingray, with a maximum recorded size of 50.0 cm. Its most distinguishing feature is the distinctive cross-shaped pattern on its dorsal surface, which gives it its common names. This pattern consists of a dark band running across the middle of the disc, with two shorter bands extending towards the sides, creating a cross-like shape. This coloration helps to camouflage the stingray against the sandy bottom where it typically resides.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Crossback Stingaree, Cross-back Stingaree, Crossbacked Stingaree, Cross-backed Stingaree, Banded Stingaree, Urolophus cruciatus, is commonly found in coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the temperate and tropical zones. This species is known to frequent a variety of habitats, including sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and seagrass meadows. It primarily inhabits the demersal zone, which refers to the seafloor, and is often observed at depths ranging from the surface to 100 meters. Its distribution encompasses a vast geographical area, spanning from the coast of East Africa to the waters off Japan and Australia.
Taxonomy
The species Urolophus cruciatus belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Myliobatiformes, and Family: Urolophidae. This family, Urolophidae, is comprised of a diverse group of stingrays commonly known as “stingarees,” characterized by their flattened bodies, large pectoral fins that form a disc, and a venomous spine located on their tails.
Feeding
Urolophus cruciatus is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on a variety of invertebrates. Its diet includes crustaceans like crabs, shrimps, and krill, as well as mollusks such as clams and snails. It also consumes worms and other small invertebrates found on the seafloor, including amphipods and copepods. This diverse diet reflects its adaptability to various habitats and its role as a predator in the marine ecosystem.
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