The Western Shovelnose Stingaree, Bebil, Kejetuck, Western Stingaree, Yellow-spotted Stingaree, scientifically known as Trygonoptera mucosa, is a species of ray found in the coastal waters of the Indian Ocean. This stingaree, while not the largest, can reach a maximum size of 44.0 cm, making it a relatively small but intriguing inhabitant of the marine environment.
Description & Characteristics
Trygonoptera mucosa possesses a distinctive shovel-shaped snout and a flattened, disc-like body, characteristic of rays. Its upper surface is typically yellowish-brown with dark spots, earning it the name “Yellow-spotted Stingaree.” The underside is a lighter color, often white. As with other stingarees, Trygonoptera mucosa has a venomous spine located on its tail, serving as a defense mechanism against potential predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Western Shovelnose Stingaree, Bebil, Kejetuck, Western Stingaree, Yellow-spotted Stingaree, Trygonoptera mucosa, is a common inhabitant of shallow coastal waters, often found in sandy or muddy bottoms. It thrives in the neritic zone, specifically in the coastal waters above the continental shelf. This stingaree is a notable resident of the Indian Ocean, particularly off the coast of Western Australia, where it is frequently encountered.
Taxonomy
The species Trygonoptera mucosa belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes, and the Order: Myliobatiformes, containing stingrays and eagle rays. It is further classified under the Family: Urolophidae, a family that includes a diverse range of stingrays distinguished by their relatively small size and flattened bodies.
Feeding
Trygonoptera mucosa, like most stingarees, is a carnivore. Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, flatfish, and cephalopods, like cuttlefish. It also feeds on zoobenthos, a diverse group of organisms inhabiting the bottom of the ocean floor. These feeding habits make Trygonoptera mucosa a significant predator within its ecosystem.
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