How to Identify Whitetail Stingray

To identify Whitetail Stingray (Urogymnus granulatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark grey, brown, or olive, often mottled or speckled, providing excellent camouflage. Ventral surface is white to off-white. The tail is distinctly white or pale towards the tip, giving it its common name.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Thick, rounded, and relatively small disc compared to its overall length., Dorsal surface covered in numerous small, granular denticles (tubercles), giving it a rough, sandpaper-like texture., Relatively short and thick tail, often less than the disc length, with a prominent white or pale distal portion., One or more venomous serrated spines located on the dorsal surface of the tail, typically closer to the base., Absence of a dorsal fin and caudal fin fold.

Dorsal fin

Absent

Tail fin

Lacks a true caudal fin; tail is whip-like with venomous spines.

Pectoral fin

Large, forming the disc.

Distinctive fins

Pectoral fins are fused to the head, forming a broad, rounded disc. Pelvic fins are small and located at the base of the tail.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Disc Shape and Texture

   Look for a thick, rounded disc that is noticeably granular or 'bumpy' to the touch due to numerous small denticles. This is a key distinguishing feature from many other stingray species.

2. 2

   Tail Coloration

   The most prominent feature is the tail, which is thick and relatively short, with a distinct white or pale coloration towards its tip. This 'whitetail' is diagnostic.

3. 3

   Absence of Dorsal and Caudal Fins

   Unlike some other ray species, Urogymnus granulatus lacks a dorsal fin and a caudal fin fold on its tail.

4. 4

   Size

   Can grow quite large, with disc widths up to 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) and total lengths exceeding 2.5 meters (8.2 feet).

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