Dasyatis tortonesei is a species of ray belonging to the family Dasyatidae, commonly known as stingrays. This species, first described in 1984, is a relatively understudied member of the stingray family, with limited information available on its biology and behavior.
Description & Characteristics
Dasyatis tortonesei is a moderately sized stingray, reaching a maximum size of 80.0 cm in length. The species exhibits the characteristic features of stingrays, including a flattened, disc-shaped body and a whip-like tail equipped with a venomous spine. The dorsal surface of the ray is typically covered in small, granular denticles, contributing to a rough texture.
Habitat and Occurrence
Dasyatis tortonesei is known to inhabit the bathypelagic zone, a region of the ocean between 100.0 and 200.0 meters deep. This depth range places it firmly within the mesopelagic zone, often referred to as the “twilight zone” due to the limited sunlight penetration. While specific details about its distribution are scarce, it is likely to be found in certain regions of the Atlantic Ocean.
Taxonomy
Dasyatis tortonesei is classified within the Class Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes, and the Order Myliobatiformes, which encompasses rays and skates. The species is a member of the Family Dasyatidae, which includes a diverse array of stingrays found in various marine environments.
Feeding
Like other stingrays, Dasyatis tortonesei is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on benthic invertebrates like crustaceans and mollusks. The ray’s flattened body and specialized mouth allow it to effectively forage on the seabed, using its senses to detect prey.
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