The Mangrove Whipray – Urogymnus granulatus is a fascinating ray species found in tropical and subtropical waters. It is a relatively large ray, known for its distinctive appearance and behavior.
Description & Characteristics
The Mangrove Whipray – Urogymnus granulatus can reach a maximum size of 141.0 cm. This ray has a characteristic flattened body shape with a whip-like tail that can grow to be significantly longer than its body. Its dorsal surface is typically a sandy brown color, often with darker blotches or markings. The ventral surface, on the other hand, is a lighter white or cream color. The Mangrove Whipray has small, pointed teeth adapted for crushing its prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Mangrove Whipray – Urogymnus granulatus is primarily found in coastal waters, inhabiting both inshore and offshore regions. Its preferred depth range is between 1.0 and 85.0 meters. They are commonly found in shallow waters near mangroves, estuaries, and seagrass beds, hence the name “Mangrove Whipray.” Their distribution encompasses a variety of marine zones, including the neritic zone (coastal waters) and the epipelagic zone (the sunlit surface layer of the open ocean).
Taxonomy
The Mangrove Whipray – Urogymnus granulatus is scientifically classified as follows: it belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes like sharks and rays. It is further categorized within the Order: Myliobatiformes, an order that includes various rays and skates. Finally, the Mangrove Whipray is a member of the Family: Dasyatidae, a family that encompasses stingrays known for their venomous spines.
Feeding
The Mangrove Whipray – Urogymnus granulatus is a carnivore, feeding primarily on a diet of crustaceans and small fish. They are known to use their flattened bodies to ambush prey, burying themselves in sand or mud and waiting for unsuspecting organisms to approach. They have also been observed consuming frozen food, particularly larger varieties, in captivity.
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