Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard whipray (Himantura undulata) is a saltwater fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 410 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, India, Indonesia, Japan and others
Description
The leopard whipray is a large stingray (Dasyatidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.4 metres wide and has a rhomboid body disc with a handsome leopard-like pattern of dark rings on a pale ground and a very long, whip-like tail with a serrated venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms and crushes molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. It is not aggressive, but the tail spine can inflict a severely painful, venomous wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard whipray?
The Leopard whipray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Leopard whipray live?
The Leopard whipray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, India, Indonesia, Japan and others
How big does the Leopard whipray get?
The Leopard whipray grows to a maximum of about 410 cm.
Is the Leopard whipray dangerous to humans?
The Leopard whipray 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.
Is the Leopard whipray edible?
Yes, the Leopard whipray 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
Want the complete picture on the Leopard whipray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard whipray is one of 12,519 species in the app.