Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotched stingray (Urotrygon chilensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Urotrygonidae that grows up to 42 cm.
North America: Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and others
Description
The blotched stingray is a round stingray (Urotrygonidae) from coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 42 cm and has an oval, flattened body disc with a brown, blotched pattern and a row of thornlets over the back and the relatively long tail, which carries a serrated venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sandy bottoms and crushes molluscs and crustaceans. The tail spine can inflict a painful, venomous wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotched stingray?
The Blotched stingray has an irregular in shape body. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Blotched stingray live?
The Blotched stingray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and others
How big does the Blotched stingray get?
The Blotched stingray grows to a maximum of about 42 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Blotched stingray dangerous to humans?
The Blotched stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not step on the tail or grab the fish by the tail. For a sting: immediately immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the protein venom; have any retained spine fragments removed. Pain is severe: always seek medical help and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Urotrygon
More from the family Urotrygonidae
Want the complete picture on the Blotched stingray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotched stingray is one of 12,519 species in the app.