How to Identify Undulate Ray

To identify Undulate Ray (Raja undulata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically light brown to greyish-brown, adorned with a striking pattern of dark, wavy, undulating lines and ocelli (eye-spots) that are often ringed with lighter coloration. The ventral surface is white or cream-colored, sometimes with darker blotches or margins.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Prominent wavy, dark lines on the dorsal surface, forming a reticulated pattern., Several large, dark ocelli (eye-spots) often present on the disc, particularly towards the posterior margins of the pectoral fins., Snout is moderately pointed., Two small dorsal fins located close to the tip of the tail., Tail is relatively slender and bears several rows of thorns.

Dorsal fin

Two small, similarly sized dorsal fins located on the posterior part of the tail, close to the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Slender, with a small, rudimentary caudal fin. Bears several rows of thorns along its length.

Pectoral fin

Large, flattened, and expanded, forming the characteristic rhomboidal disc of the skate.

Distinctive fins

The pectoral fins are fused to the head and body, forming a continuous disc.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Pattern

   Look for the highly distinctive, dark, wavy lines on a lighter background, often forming a reticulated or labyrinthine pattern. This is the most reliable identification feature.

2. 2

   Ocelli

   Presence of several prominent, dark ocelli (eye-spots), often ringed with lighter color, on the posterior part of the pectoral fins.

3. 3

   Snout

   A moderately pointed snout, not excessively long or blunt.

4. 4

   Thorns

   Examine the tail for multiple rows of thorns. Adult males typically have alar thorns (clasper thorns) on the pectoral fins.

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