How to Identify Teacup Ray

To identify Teacup Ray (Potamotrygon sp.), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Highly variable, typically a base color of brown, grey, or tan, adorned with a pattern of ocelli (eye-spots), spots, or reticulations. The patterns can range from small, dense spots to larger, more defined rings or blotches. The ventral side is usually white or cream.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Disc-shaped body, flattened dorsoventrally., Short, thick tail bearing one or more venomous serrated spines., Small eyes positioned dorsally., Spiracles located behind the eyes., Mouth and gill slits located ventrally.

Dorsal fin

Absent

Tail fin

Reduced to a fleshy keel, not a true fin, terminating in a caudal spine.

Pectoral fin

Fused to the head and body, forming the characteristic disc shape.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and located at the posterior edge of the disc.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   Adult disc width typically ranges from 15-25 cm (6-10 inches), making them one of the smaller freshwater stingray species. However, some individuals can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches).

2. 2

   Pattern

   Observe the dorsal coloration and pattern. 'Teacup' rays often exhibit intricate patterns of spots, ocelli, or reticulations that can vary significantly between individuals and populations. This is a primary, though sometimes unreliable, identifier for specific 'types'.

3. 3

   Tail Spine

   Note the presence and number of venomous caudal spines. While common to all Potamotrygon, the specific morphology can sometimes aid in species differentiation, though this requires close examination.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   The disc is typically more rounded to slightly oval compared to some other Potamotrygon species which may have more angular or elongated discs.

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