The Spotted Stingaree, Sinclair’s Stingaree (Urolophus gigas) is a distinctive ray species known for its striking appearance and intriguing biology. It is a member of the family Urolophidae, a group of stingrays commonly known as “stingarees.” This species, like other members of its family, is characterized by a flattened body with wing-like pectoral fins and a venomous spine located on the tail.
Description & Characteristics
The Spotted Stingaree, Sinclair’s Stingaree (Urolophus gigas) is a relatively large stingaree, with a maximum recorded size of 70.0 cm. Its body is flattened, with a broad, rounded disc that is wider than it is long. The disc is covered with numerous, scattered dark spots, giving the ray its distinctive spotted appearance. The underside of the disc is white, contrasting with the dark dorsal surface. The eyes are small, and the snout is short and blunt.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Spotted Stingaree, Sinclair’s Stingaree (Urolophus gigas) typically inhabits the waters of , often in relatively shallow areas. Its distribution includes the marine zones of , making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Urolophus gigas belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Myliobatiformes, and Family: Urolophidae. Elasmobranchii includes sharks, rays, and skates. Myliobatiformes is an order of rays that includes eagle rays, manta rays, and stingrays. Urolophidae is a family of stingrays that are characterized by having a single venomous spine on their tails.
Feeding
The Spotted Stingaree, Sinclair’s Stingaree (Urolophus gigas) is a carnivorous animal that feeds primarily on bottom-dwelling organisms, known as zoobenthos. Its diet includes flatfish, invertebrates, and other small marine creatures. The ray uses its sensory organs to detect prey buried in the sand and then uses its mouth to suck up the food.
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