Acroteriobatus
Acroteriobatus is a genus of batoid fish in the family Dasyatidae, commonly known as stingrays. The genus was established in 1913 by American ichthyologist Samuel Garman, and currently contains four recognized species. Acroteriobatus are characterized by their distinctive, wing-like pectoral fins, which are separated from the head and fused to the snout. They also possess a prominent tail with a stinging spine and a dorsal fin. The genus is distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Common Names
Species in the genus Acroteriobatus are known by various common names, including:
- Whitespotted stingray
- Fanray
- Shortfinned stingray
Characteristics
Acroteriobatus stingrays typically have a flattened, diamond-shaped body with a pointed snout. Their pectoral fins are large and wing-like, extending laterally beyond the head. The eyes are small and positioned dorsally, while the spiracles are located behind the eyes. The mouth is located ventrally, and the teeth are small and numerous. The tail is slender and whip-like, with a stinging spine located near the base. The spine is serrated and venomous, serving as a defense mechanism. Acroteriobatus species vary in color and pattern, with some having a distinctive white spotting on their dorsal surface.
Environment
Acroteriobatus stingrays are found in coastal waters, estuaries, and sandy bottoms of the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer shallow waters with a sandy or muddy substrate. These rays are typically solitary and bottom-dwelling, feeding on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.
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