Fin's Fish Guide
The Vermiculate electric ray (Narcine vermiculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Narcinidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The vermiculate electric ray is an electric ray from the eastern Pacific, ranging from the Gulf of California to Panama. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an almost round, flat disc with a striking worm-like (vermiculate) pattern on the back. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on soft bottoms of sheltered coastal waters between about 10 and 60 metres depth and feeds on small bottom animals. It has electric organs with which it can deliver a shock; when handled this can give an unpleasant, painful jolt. The species is ovoviviparous. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Vermiculate electric ray?
The Vermiculate electric ray has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Worm-like pattern on the back; electric organs that can deliver a shock; ovoviviparous
Where does the Vermiculate electric ray live?
The Vermiculate electric ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Vermiculate electric ray get?
The Vermiculate electric ray grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Vermiculate electric ray dangerous to humans?
The Vermiculate electric ray can cause injury; handle it with care. The ray can deliver an electric shock: do not touch a live animal or lift it with bare hands. After a shock, seek medical help for lasting numbness, muscle pain or dizziness.
Is the Vermiculate electric ray edible?
The Vermiculate electric ray is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Narcine
More from the family Narcinidae
Want the complete picture on the Vermiculate electric ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Vermiculate electric ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.