Common Names
Species within the genus Trygonoptera are known by a variety of common names, including:
- Butterfly rays
- Fantail rays
- Whiptail rays
Characteristics
Trygonoptera species share several characteristics, including:
- A flattened, diamond-shaped body
- A long, whip-like tail with a single venomous spine
- Large, pectoral fins that extend around the head, forming a "wing" shape
- Small, ventral fins
- A small, terminal mouth
- A distinctive pattern of spots or blotches on the dorsal surface of the body
Environment
Trygonoptera species inhabit a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coastal waters
- Estuaries
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass meadows
They are typically found in shallow waters, often in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms.
References
For more information on the genus Trygonoptera, you can consult the following resources:
