Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown stingray (Hemitrygon akajei) is a brackish-water fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Northwest Pacific around East Asia; coral reefs, estuaries and sandy and muddy bottoms.
Description
The red stingray is a stingray of the family Dasyatidae from the north-western Pacific around East Asia. The species grows to about two metres (including the tail) and has a rhomboidal, flattened pectoral disc that is brownish with orange-red tints along the margins and around the eyes, and a long, whip-like tail. It inhabits coral reefs, estuaries and sand and mud bottoms of coastal waters. As a bottom hunter it digs in the bottom for molluscs, crustaceans, worms and small fishes. On the tail is a serrated, venomous spine; a sting causes severe pain, so never step on a resting ray and keep your distance. Owing to fishing the species is listed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown stingray?
The Brown stingray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Orange-red tints along the disc margin; serrated, venomous tail spine, near threatened (NT).
Where does the Brown stingray live?
The Brown stingray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific around East Asia; coral reefs, estuaries and sandy and muddy bottoms.
How big does the Brown stingray get?
The Brown stingray grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Brown stingray dangerous to humans?
The Brown stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The serrated tail spine contains venom; a sting causes severe pain and a deep wound. Immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C), do not pull out an embedded spine yourself, and seek medical care.
Is the Brown stingray edible?
Yes, the Brown stingray is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemitrygon
More from the family Dasyatidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown stingray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown stingray is one of 12,519 species in the app.