Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded stingaree (Urolophus cruciatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Urolophidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The banded stingaree is a small stingray (Urolophidae) from coastal waters of southeastern Australia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an oval, flattened disc with a striking pattern of dark bands and a short tail bearing a venomous spine and a caudal fin. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and searches for worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The tail spine can inflict a very painful wound; never walk on sandy bottoms without shuffling.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded stingaree?
The Banded stingaree has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Banded stingaree live?
The Banded stingaree lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Banded stingaree get?
The Banded stingaree grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Banded stingaree dangerous to humans?
The Banded stingaree is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Leave the water and rinse the wound with clean water; do not remove embedded spine fragments on the spot. Immerse the affected part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45C) to ease pain. A sting to the torso, chest or abdomen is an emergency: call medical help immediately and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Urolophus
More from the family Urolophidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded stingaree?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded stingaree is one of 12,519 species in the app.