Fin's Fish Guide
The Porcupine ray (Urogymnus asperrimus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Dasyatidae that grows up to 147 cm.
Description
The porcupine ray is a large stingray (Dasyatidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.2 metres wide and has a flattened, almost round, grey-brown body entirely covered with coarse, thorny tubercles and spines. Remarkably, unlike most stingrays, it has no venomous tail spine. As a bottom-dweller it searches sand and reef bottoms for crustaceans, molluscs and worms. Lacking a sting, the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Porcupine ray?
The Porcupine ray has an irregular in shape body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Porcupine ray live?
The Porcupine ray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, China, Mayotte, Fiji, Guam, Guinea and others
How big does the Porcupine ray get?
The Porcupine ray grows to a maximum of about 147 cm.
Is the Porcupine ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Porcupine ray is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Porcupine ray edible?
Yes, the Porcupine ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Porcupine ray and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Dasyatidae
Want the complete picture on the Porcupine ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Porcupine ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.