How to Identify Fanray

To identify Fanray (Platyrhina sinensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically light brown to grayish-brown, often with scattered darker spots or blotches, providing camouflage against the seabed. Ventral surface is white or cream-colored.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Heart-shaped disc, wider than long., Two prominent dorsal fins located on the tail., A caudal fin (tail fin) that is well-developed and fan-like., Dorsal surface covered in numerous small dermal denticles, giving it a rough texture., Several rows of larger, sharp thorns along the midline of the back and tail, and often around the eyes and shoulders.

Dorsal fin

Two distinct, relatively large dorsal fins located on the posterior half of the tail, close to the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Well-developed, fan-like caudal fin, continuous with the dorsal fins.

Pectoral fin

Broad, rounded pectoral fins forming the heart-shaped disc.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are separate from the pectoral fins and are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Disc Shape

   Look for the characteristic heart-shaped or spade-shaped disc, which is wider than it is long.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinct dorsal fins positioned on the tail, followed by a prominent caudal fin.

3. 3

   Thorns/Denticles

   Feel (carefully) or observe the rough texture of the dorsal surface due to numerous small denticles, and the presence of larger, sharp thorns along the midline and around the eyes.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Observe the cryptic brown to grayish-brown coloration, often with darker spots, which helps it blend with the seabed.

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