The Brazilian Electric Ray, Lesser Numbfish – Narcine brasiliensis is a species of electric ray, belonging to the family Narcinidae. This fascinating creature is known for its ability to generate electric currents, which it uses for defense and hunting.
Description & Characteristics
The Brazilian Electric Ray, Lesser Numbfish – Narcine brasiliensis is a relatively small ray, reaching a maximum size of 54.0 cm. Its body is flattened dorsoventrally, with a rounded, disc-shaped pectoral fin that is broader than long. Its eyes are small and placed dorsally, and its spiracles are large and located just behind the eyes. The ray has a short, pointed snout and a small mouth. The ventral surface of the body is pale, while the dorsal surface is a mottled brown, often with darker blotches or spots. The Narcine brasiliensis has a pair of large, oval electric organs located on the ventral surface of its head. These organs are responsible for generating strong electric discharges that can stun prey or deter predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Brazilian Electric Ray, Lesser Numbfish – Narcine brasiliensis is found in coastal waters, typically inhabiting sandy sea floors and unconsolidated muddy grounds. It has a depth range of 1.0 to 43.0 meters, making it a common inhabitant of the neritic zone, the area of the ocean that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Narcine brasiliensis belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Torpediniformes, and Family: Narcinidae. This classification places it among the cartilaginous fishes, a group that includes sharks, rays, and chimaeras. The order Torpediniformes encompasses electric rays, which are characterized by their ability to generate electricity. The family Narcinidae includes a diverse group of electric rays known as numbfish, which are generally smaller and less powerful than other electric rays.
Feeding
The Brazilian Electric Ray, Lesser Numbfish – Narcine brasiliensis is a carnivore, feeding primarily on crustaceans, shrimps, and sea anemones. It also feeds on worms, snake eels, and other benthic organisms. The Narcine brasiliensis uses its electric organs to stun or paralyze prey before consuming it.
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