Pink Whipray, Himantura fai Jordan & Seale, 1906
Introduction
The Pink Whipray is a large ray with a long, slender tail. It is brownish-pink above. The species is often seen in aggregations in shallow water.
Identification
The lower surface is pale. The head and trunk are covered with short, widely-spaced denticles.
Habitat
It is usually encountered in shallow coastal waters but has been recorded as deep as 200 m.
Distribution
Widespread through the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific.
The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.
Danger to humans
The species has a sting on the tail but is not regarded as dangerous.
References
- Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
- Last, P.R. & J.D. Stevens. 2009. Sharks and Rays of Australia. Edition 2. CSIRO. Pp. 644, Pl. 1-91.