How to Identify Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray

To identify Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray (Taeniura lymma), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically yellowish-brown to olive-green, densely covered with numerous bright electric blue spots. The spots are generally round and vary in size. The ventral surface is white. The tail has two prominent blue stripes running longitudinally along each side.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Numerous bright blue spots on the dorsal disc, Two prominent blue stripes along the sides of the tail, Relatively short, thick tail with a broad, fleshy keel on the ventral side, Small, widely spaced eyes located dorsally, Small mouth located ventrally

Dorsal fin

Absent

Tail fin

Relatively short and thick, approximately equal to or slightly shorter than the disc length. Bears one or two venomous serrated spines near the base, followed by a prominent ventral fin fold (keel) and a small dorsal fin fold (rudimentary).

Pectoral fin

Broad and flattened, forming the main disc of the ray.

Distinctive fins

The tail is notably shorter and thicker than many other stingray species, and the presence of the blue stripes and ventral keel are key identifiers.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Spot Pattern

   The most definitive feature is the bright blue, circular spots covering the yellowish-brown to olive-green dorsal disc. No other ray species in its range has this exact pattern.

2. 2

   Tail Markings

   Look for two distinct blue stripes running longitudinally along the sides of the tail, which is relatively short and thick compared to many other stingrays.

3. 3

   Tail Spines

   Observe the presence of one or two venomous serrated spines near the base of the tail. These are typically dark.

4. 4

   Habitat Preference

   Often seen resting on sandy patches adjacent to coral reefs or under ledges during the day, making it easier to spot in its preferred shallow water environment.

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