The Roughtail stingray (Bathytoshia centroura) is a brackish-water fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Description
The roughtail stingray is one of the largest whip-tailed rays (family Dasyatidae), reaching a disc width of about 2 metres and a total length of around 3 metres. The angular, rhomboid disc is plain brown to brown-black; rows of rough denticles run over the back and the long, whip-like tail (hence the name), alongside one or more venomous spines. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of coastal water, the continental shelf and estuaries in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, and tolerates brackish water. On the bottom it searches, mainly at night, for crabs, crustaceans, molluscs, worms and fish. Through fishing and bycatch it has declined and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roughtail stingray?
The Roughtail stingray has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Roughtail stingray live?
The Roughtail stingray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Roughtail stingray get?
The Roughtail stingray grows to a maximum of about 300 cm. On average the species is around 125 cm.
Is the Roughtail stingray dangerous to humans?
The Roughtail stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Roughtail stingray edible?
The Roughtail stingray is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Dasyatidae
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