A Little Known Marine Species: Stingrays
The rays make up a large order of cartilaginous fish that are characterized by their flat and thin bodies, with two pectoral fins and a long tail. Despite their morphological differences, they are strictly related to sharks.
In this article, we provide you with information about these little-known marine species. In addition to its physical characteristics, we will also review its habitat, feeding and reproduction.
Morphological characteristics of stripes
Some of the most prominent features of these fish are their triangular-shaped pectoral fins and their flattened dorsoventral area. They are also characterized by their entirely cartilaginous endoskeleton and fused front vertebrae.
The large size and waviness of the fins are essential for stingray movement, allowing them to propel their body through the water. On the other hand, its tail fin may be short or non-existent, and it lacks an anal fin.
The tail has a whip-like structure: it is long, sharp and thin. It is usually covered with small sharp prongs or barbs that can contain certain toxins. Some species have a poisonous stinger that can measure up to 30 centimeters in length.
Another typical feature is the thin, pointed snout that is usually covered by a single nasal fin. Their corneas are almost always attached to the skin around their eyes, with the nictating membrane absent.
Stingray habitat
The vast majority of stingrays inhabit masses of salty waters, and they spread throughout the oceans of our planet. Their adaptability is remarkable, as they can live both in coastal areas, in the open sea and in depths of up to 3,000 meters.
However, there are also species of rays adapted to fresh waters, which inhabit estuaries or rivers. Among them, we find the so-called ‘river pooches’, native to South America, which mostly inhabit the Amazon basin. These species are recognized and feared for the powerful toxin in their quills.
Much of the salt or fresh water stingrays are benthic: they usually remain in the bed where they live. This habit provides protection against potential attackers.
By waving their fins, the rays manage to shake the sand and partially bury their body in order to camouflage themselves and mislead their predators. Some species, like the famous manta ray, are used to crossing the oceans: they are pelagic rays.
Swimming method and behavior
The stingray’s swimming method combines the lateral movements of its tail with the undulating movements of its fins to propel its body through the water. Despite moving very gracefully, stingrays are not particularly agile when swimming.
Another curious and not so common habit of stingrays is jumping out of the water, which leaves a large part of their body in view. It is estimated that this practice is aimed at getting rid of parasites that may settle on your skin.
Regarding social behavior, we can observe different habits according to the species of line that we analyze. Some stingrays are very social and live in large groups that hunt together and protect all of their members. But there are also stripes of solitary habits that are only found during the reproductive season.
Stingray feeding
Most of the rays maintain a strictly carnivorous diet: they feed on mollusks, fish and invertebrates that live near the bottom of the sea. There are also species that consume a large amount of plankton to supplement their diet.
The eyes of the stingrays are located in the upper part of their dorsoventral region, also called the disc. To hunt, stingrays mostly use a sensor system that allows them to identify the location of their prey, ensuring the effectiveness of their attack.
Stingray attacks or bites
In general, these curious marine animals show balanced behavior and are very reserved. Stingray attacks or stings usually happen when they feel threatened by the presence of strangers in their territory.
In case of suffering a stingray bite and there is no nearby health center, it is recommended to remove the quills with a tweezers. Never with your hands or teeth, to avoid contact with any toxin.
Afterwards, the affected region should be immersed in hot water for 30 to 60 minutes (with due precaution not to burn yourself). Once the first aid has been done, it will be essential to seek specialized care in health centers or lifeguards.
