Fin's Fish Guide
The Maid (Urobatis jamaicensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Urotrygonidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Description
The yellow stingray is a small stingray of the round stingray family (Urotrygonidae) from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 76 cm (including the tail) and has a nearly round, flattened pectoral disc with a fine, net-like pattern in yellow, brown and green tones, camouflaging it excellently on the sand bottom. It is common along sandy beaches up to the water's edge. As a bottom hunter it digs in the sand for worms, crustaceans 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.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maid?
The Maid has an irregular in shape body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a marbled pattern. Almost round disc with a fine net-like camouflage colouring; serrated, venomous tail spine.
Where does the Maid live?
The Maid lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; sandy beaches up to the waterline.
How big does the Maid get?
The Maid grows to a maximum of about 76 cm.
Is the Maid dangerous to humans?
The Maid 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 Maid edible?
The Maid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Urobatis
More from the family Urotrygonidae
Want the complete picture on the Maid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maid is one of 12,519 species in the app.