Stingrays: Yellow Stingray

YELLOW STINGRAY
Urobatis jamaicensis

 
 
Identification
Disc round and yellowish in color with darker vermiculations or spots dorsally, whitish below. Tail stout with caudal fin well developed (rounded). No dorsal fin. Venomous spine located just anterior to the caudal fin.

Habitat and Behavior
Commonly found along sandy beaches to the water's edge, and especially in sandy areas in and around coral reefs. Found to depths of ~80 feet.

Feeding
Benthic feeder. Feeds mainly on bivalves, marine worms, shrimp, crabs, and small fishes.

Reproduction
Aplacental viviparity. Three to four pups per litter.

Size
Wingspan up to 14 inches.

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.