Himantura
Himantura is a genus of rays in the family Dasyatidae. These rays are commonly known as whiprays or stingrays, and they are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. The genus is characterized by their elongated, whip-like tails, which can be up to twice the length of their bodies. They are often found in coastal waters, estuaries, and river mouths, where they feed on a variety of bottom-dwelling organisms. Many species are threatened by overfishing and habitat loss.
Common Names
Species in the genus Himantura are commonly known as:
- Whiprays
- Stingrays
Characteristics
Himantura rays have a number of distinctive features that set them apart from other rays, including:
- Elongated, whip-like tails: These tails are often twice the length of the ray's body and can be used for defense or to propel the ray through the water.
- Disc-shaped bodies: The rays have flattened, disc-shaped bodies with a prominent snout and large pectoral fins that are fused to the head.
- Ventral mouth: The mouth is located on the underside of the body, and the ray has five gill slits behind the mouth.
- One or more venomous spines: The tail of the ray has one or more venomous spines that can be used for defense. The spines can inflict painful wounds, and in some cases, can even be fatal.
Environments
Himantura rays are found in a variety of habitats, including:
- Coastal waters: They are often found in shallow, sandy or muddy areas close to shore.
- Estuaries: These rays can tolerate brackish water and are commonly found in estuaries and river mouths.
- River mouths: Some species of Himantura are found in freshwater rivers, but most prefer saltwater or brackish environments.
References