Stingrays: Atlantic Stingray

ATLANTIC STINGRAY
Hypanus sabinus

 
Identification
Color brownish to yellowish brown dorsally and whitish ventrally. Disc corners rounded. Disc width nearly equal to disc length. Snout pointed and projecting. Spine near base of long whip like tail. Low dorsal and ventral fin folds on tail which are brown/dusky in color.

Habitat and Behavior
Benthic species. Inhabits coastal waters, including estuaries, and lagoons. Known to tolerate low salinities and inhabit freshwater rivers of Florida.

Feeding
Feeds on benthic invertebrates, marine worms, small crustaceans, shrimp, crabs, mollusks, and sometimes small fishes.

Reproduction
Aplacental viviparity. One to four pups per litter.

Size
Wingspan of up to 2 feet.

Human Factors
Non-aggressive species of little danger to humans except for their defensive venomous barb located near the base of the tail. Avoid handling or exercise extreme caution. Do the "Stingray Shuffle" to reduce the chance of stepping on these rays and risking possible injury from their spine.