How to Identify Southern Stingray

To identify Southern Stingray (Dasyatis americana), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically uniform brown, olive, or gray, sometimes with darker spots or mottling; ventral surface is white or off-white. Juveniles may have a more mottled pattern.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Diamond-shaped disc, wider than long, with broadly rounded outer corners., Snout is short and bluntly angular., Eyes are relatively small and located on top of the head, followed by spiracles., Tail is whip-like, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 times the disc length, bearing one or more serrated, venomous spines near the base., A prominent dorsal keel (fin fold) is present on the upper surface of the tail, and a ventral keel (fin fold) on the lower surface, extending to the tip.

Dorsal fin

Absent on the disc; a low dorsal fin fold is present on the tail.

Tail fin

Long, whip-like, with a venomous spine(s) and dorsal/ventral fin folds.

Pectoral fin

Large, forming the 'wings' of the disc, used for propulsion.

Distinctive fins

No distinct caudal fin; pelvic fins are small and located beneath the disc.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Disc Shape

   Look for a distinct diamond-shaped disc that is wider than it is long, with broadly rounded corners.

2. 2

   Snout

   Observe the short, bluntly angular snout, which is not elongated or pointed.

3. 3

   Tail

   Note the long, whip-like tail, which is significantly longer than the disc and possesses a prominent dorsal and ventral fin fold, along with one or more venomous spines.

4. 4

   Coloration

   The uniform brown, olive, or gray dorsal coloration, contrasting with a white ventral surface, is characteristic.

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