Pteroplatytrygon

Pteroplatytrygon is a genus of stingrays in the family Dasyatidae, commonly known as the butterfly rays. These rays are characterized by their distinctive wing-like pectoral fins and large, flattened bodies. There are currently two recognized species within this genus, both found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Pelagic stingray – Pteroplatytrygon violacea

Common Names

The common names for Pteroplatytrygon species include:

  • Butterfly ray (general name)
  • Whitespotted butterfly ray (Pteroplatytrygon violacea)
  • Fanray (Pteroplatytrygon violacea)
  • Reticulated butterfly ray (Pteroplatytrygon reticulata)

Characteristics

Pteroplatytrygon rays are distinguished by their flattened, disc-shaped bodies and large, wing-like pectoral fins that extend around the head, giving them a butterfly-like appearance. Their eyes are small and located on the dorsal surface of the head, while their mouths are ventral, positioned at the front of the head. They possess a prominent, whip-like tail with one or two venomous spines.

The coloration of Pteroplatytrygon species varies depending on the species. Pteroplatytrygon violacea has a distinctive color pattern, featuring a deep blue to purple body with white spots and a black-edged margin around the pectoral fins. Pteroplatytrygon reticulata is characterized by a gray to brown body with a network of darker lines or spots forming a reticulated pattern.

Environment

Pteroplatytrygon rays are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They inhabit a variety of marine environments, including shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and reefs. These rays are typically found in sandy or muddy bottoms, where they forage for food.

References

  • Last, P.R., Naylor, G.J.P. & Manjaji-Matsumoto, B.M. (2016). Pteroplatytrygon. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T60250A104067447. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T60250A104067447.en
  • Froese, Rainer and Pauly, Daniel, eds. (2023). "Pteroplatytrygon" in FishBase. February 2023 version.
  • Compagno, L.J.V. (1999). Checklist of living elasmobranchs. In: Hamlett, W.C. (ed.) Sharks, Skates, and Rays: The Biology of Elasmobranch Fishes. pp. 471-498. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press.