Leopard Whipray [Himantura leoparda]
Description
The Leopard Whipray, as suggested by its name, is a species notable for its leopard-like spots. It is native to the tropical coastal waters of the Western Pacific, particularly around Thailand and the Philippines. It has a broadly oval, disc-like body, a relatively short tail, and a long snout. This species spends the majority of its time buried in the sand or mud, emerging at night to feed on small fish and crustaceans.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Cartilaginous Fish
Chondrichthyes
|
| Order |
Stingrays
Myliobatiformes
|
| Family |
Giant Stingrays
Dasyatidae
|
| Genus |
Whiptail Stingrays
Dasyatis
|