The Banded whiptail stingray (Himantura uarnak) is a brackish-water fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Description
The honeycomb whipray is a large stingray (Dasyatidae) from the western Indian Ocean. The species has a diamond-shaped body disc with a fine honeycomb pattern of dark spots and a very long, whip-shaped tail with a serrated venomous spine. It lives bottom-bound on sandy bottoms of shallow coastal waters, estuaries and lagoons. As a bottom hunter it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. It gives birth to live young and is endangered. The venomous spine can inflict deep, very painful wounds if stepped on.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded whiptail stingray?
The Banded whiptail stingray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Banded whiptail stingray live?
The Banded whiptail stingray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Banded whiptail stingray get?
The Banded whiptail stingray grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Banded whiptail stingray dangerous to humans?
The Banded whiptail stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Banded whiptail stingray edible?
Yes, the Banded whiptail stingray is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Himantura
More from the family Dasyatidae
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