Fin's Fish Guide
The Pink whipray (Pateobatis fai) is a saltwater fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 183 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Mayotte, Tuamotu Is., Marquesas Is., French Polynesia and others
Description
The pink whipray is a large stingray (Dasyatidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.8 metres wide and has a rhomboid, grey-pink body disc and a very long, whip-like tail with a serrated venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it lives around reefs and on sand flats, often in groups, and crushes molluscs, crustaceans and worms. It is not aggressive, but the tail spine can inflict a severely painful, venomous wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pink whipray?
The Pink whipray has an irregular in shape body and is mainly pink-purple. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Pink whipray live?
The Pink whipray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Mayotte, Tuamotu Is., Marquesas Is., French Polynesia and others
How big does the Pink whipray get?
The Pink whipray grows to a maximum of about 183 cm.
Is the Pink whipray dangerous to humans?
The Pink 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 Pink whipray edible?
Yes, the Pink whipray is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pateobatis
More from the family Dasyatidae
Want the complete picture on the Pink whipray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pink whipray is one of 12,519 species in the app.