Fine-spotted leopard whipray – Himantura tutul

Himantura tutul is a species of ray belonging to the family Dasyatidae. It is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coastal waters and estuaries.

Description & Characteristics

Himantura tutul is a relatively small ray, reaching a maximum size of 115.0 cm. It is characterized by a distinctive diamond-shaped disc with a pointed snout and a long, whip-like tail. The dorsal surface is a mottled brown color with dark spots, while the ventral surface is lighter, often white or cream-colored. These rays possess a pair of prominent, fleshy dorsal fins located near the tip of the tail, and their bodies are covered in rough, sandpaper-like skin.

Habitat and Occurrence

Himantura tutul is typically found in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of approximately 50 meters. They prefer habitats with soft, sandy bottoms and often congregate near mangroves and seagrass beds. Its distribution spans across the Indo-Pacific region, encompassing diverse marine zones, including the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Red Sea. This widespread distribution highlights the adaptability of Himantura tutul to a variety of environmental conditions.

Taxonomy

Himantura tutul belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Myliobatiformes, and Family: Dasyatidae. This family encompasses a diverse array of stingrays, characterized by their flattened bodies, pectoral fins fused to the head, and prominent spines on the tail. Elasmobranchii encompasses all cartilaginous fishes, which are further classified into sharks, rays, and chimaeras. Myliobatiformes, the order to which Himantura tutul belongs, includes stingrays, eagle rays, and manta rays, all characterized by their flattened bodies and gill openings located on the ventral surface.

Feeding

Himantura tutul is a carnivorous species that feeds primarily on benthic invertebrates, such as crabs, shrimp, and mollusks. Its feeding strategy involves using its pectoral fins to stir up sediment and expose prey, before using its sharp teeth to crush and consume its meal. The diet of Himantura tutul plays a vital role in the ecological balance of its habitat, as it helps to regulate populations of benthic invertebrates.