How to Identify Freshwater Stingray

To identify Freshwater Stingray (Urogymnus dalyensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically light brown to grey, often with darker mottling or irregular spots, providing camouflage against the riverbed. Ventral surface is white to off-white.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Large, rounded to oval disc, wider than long., Absence of dermal denticles (tubercles) on the dorsal surface, giving it a smooth skin texture., Long, whip-like tail, typically longer than the disc, bearing one or more serrated venomous spines near the base., Small eyes positioned dorsally, followed by prominent spiracles.

Dorsal fin

Absent

Tail fin

Long, whip-like, without fin folds, but with one or more venomous serrated spines.

Pectoral fin

Fused with the head and body to form the disc.

Distinctive fins

No dorsal or caudal fins. Pectoral fins form the main body disc.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Disc Shape and Size

   Look for a large, rounded to oval disc, typically wider than it is long. Adults can reach a disc width of up to 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) and a total length (including tail) of over 2 meters (6.6 feet).

2. 2

   Skin Texture

   The most distinguishing feature is the completely smooth dorsal surface, lacking any dermal denticles or tubercles, unlike many other stingray species.

3. 3

   Tail

   Observe the long, slender, whip-like tail, which is usually longer than the disc. It lacks fin folds but possesses one or more venomous spines near its base.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Note the generally plain brown to grey dorsal coloration, often with subtle darker mottling, which helps it blend with the riverbed.

Explore Freshwater Stingray