We are restoring the world’s wild fish populations to serve as a sustainable source of protein for people. [1][15], The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed the bluespotted ribbontail ray as Near Threatened. Blue spotted ribbontail rays have been spotted scavenging inside shipwrecks. It looks a lot like the blue spotted stingray, but this ray is much rounder and has a noticeably thicker tail. They are found in coral reef habitats where they feed when the tide goes in, and shelter in caves and ledges when it goes out. [3][9] The pelvic fins are narrow and angular. The bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) is a species of Stingray in the family Dasyatidae. [4][5], Other common names used for this species include bluespotted ray, bluespotted fantail ray, bluespotted lagoon ray, bluespotted stingray, fantail ray, lesser fantail ray, lagoon ray, reef ray, ribbon-tailed stingray, and ribbontail stingray. Reaching 1.8 m (5.9 ft) across, this large ray is characterized by a thick, rounded pectoral fin disc covered by small tubercleson top, and a relatively short tail bearing a deep ventral fin fold. They frequent the coral reefs and sandy flats in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, keeping close to the seafloor where they feed. Found from the intertidal zone to a depth of 30 m (100 ft), this species is common throughout the tropical Indian and western Pacific Oceans in nearshore, coral reef-associated habitats. It is rare in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. this species is common throughout the tropical Indian and western Pacific Oceans in nearshor, coral reef associated habitats. The bluespotted ribbontail ray The bluespotted ribbontail ray. Fun Facts • The Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray eats worms, shrimp, crabs, mollusks and various small fish. Reaching widths of nearly 11 feet (over 3 m), the spotted eagle ray is one of the largest eagle rays, with only the mantas growing bigger. The blue spots are meant to tell predators and other animals to stay away. Maximum length: 70 cm (28 in) Minimum aquarium size: 1,894 L (500 gal) Water: Marine 24 °C (75 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F) General swimming level: Bottom. [1][7] In the Pacific Ocean, this species is found from the Philippines to northern Australia, as well as around numerous Melanesian and Polynesian islands as far east as the Solomon Islands. It can be easily identified by its striking color pattern of many electric blue spots on a yellowish background, with a pair of blue stripes on the tail. The bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae. • At the end of the rays tail there is two poisonous spines used to defend itself against predators. The Indo-PacificThese rays are shy around humans and will probably swim away If approached. [1] Rarely found deeper than 30 m (100 ft), the bluespotted ribbontail ray is a bottom-dwelling species that frequents coral reefs and adjacent sandy flats. The blue-spotted ribbontail ray is a type of ray commonly found near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. The Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray is found across the near shores of the Indian ocean and in the west Pacific. When the tide recedes, the rays separate and withdraw to shelters on the reef. [33] This ray has been observed soliciting cleanings from the bluestreak cleaner wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) by raising the margins of its disc and pelvic fins. If cornered they can lash out with the poisoned barb on the end of their tails, and that venom can prove fatal to many species, including humans.3, Blue spotted ribbontail rays reproduce via eggs that grow inside the mother’s body for a period of four months to a year, and live rays are born shortly after hatching inside the mother.4. Sailors for the Sea developed the KELP (Kids Environmental Lesson Plans) program to create the next generation of ocean stewards. A bottom-dwelling species, the bluespotted ray frequents coral reefs and surrounding sandy flats in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. It is a bottom-dwelling inhabitant of lagoons, estuaries, and reefs, generally at a depth of 20–60 m (66–197 ft). A great way to get involved in protecting #oceans: Join Oceana as a Wavemaker & sound off on important issues! Also known as the blue-spotted fantail ray, these vibrantly-colored creatures are found on coral reefs throughout the Indian and western Pacific oceans. Habitat: Inhabits the fringes of coral reefs and lagoons, seeking shelter in caves and under ledges. [5][11], One of the most abundant stingrays inhabiting Indo-Pacific reefs, the bluespotted ribbontail ray generally spends the day hidden alone inside caves or under coral ledges or other debris (including from shipwrecks), often with only its tail showing. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed this species as Near Threatened, as it faces widespread habitat degradation and intensive fishing pressure throughout its range. Also known as the Bluedot Ray. The blue-spotted ribbontail ray uses electroreception (the biological ability to perceive natural electric stimuli) to communicate with other members of its species and to detect prey. It is rare in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. In Australia it has been recorded from the central coast of Western Australia and to the northern tropics, and south to the northern coast of New South Wales. [2] The specific epithet lymma means "dirt". [3][8] Individuals found off southern Africa may lack the blue tail stripes. [7][9], The skin is generally smooth, save for perhaps a scattering of small thorns on the middle of the back. Often seen on the Great Barrier Reef resting on sandy bottoms of caves or under ledges. They are found between depths of 2-30 meters. This ray is capable of injuring humans with its venomous tail spines, though it prefers to flee if threatened. The Blue-spotted Ribbontail Ray (Taeniura lemma) have bright blue spots covering their circular bodies and several venomous spines at the tip of their tail. Florida Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida. Other fishes, such as goatfish, frequently follow foraging rays, seeking food missed by the ray. [13][15] Males attain sexual maturity at a disc width of 20–21 cm (7.9–8.3 in); the maturation size of females is unknown. Home » Plan Your Visit » Meet our animals » Blue Spotted Ribbontail Ray; Red List Status: Near Threatened. [12] A higher degree of success has been achieved by public aquariums and a breeding project is maintained by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (for example, a total of 15 pups were born at Lisbon Oceanarium from 2011 to 2013). Natural Selection and Evolution of Blue-Spotted Ribbontail Stingrays It is said that stingrays and rays of all kind have evolved from sharks. [5] Morphological examination has suggested that the bluespotted ribbontail ray is more closely related to the amphi-American Himantura (H. pacifica and H. schmardae) and the river stingrays (Potamotrygonidae) than to the congeneric blotched fantail ray (T. meyeni), which is closer to Dasyatis and Indo-Pacific Himantura. [1][8] Every summer, considerable numbers of bluespotted ribbontail rays arrive off South Africa. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed this species as Near Threatened, as it faces widespread habitat degradation and intensive fishing pressure throughout its range. gopro padi redang scuba Spotted Ray. Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray. The tail has two stripes of the same blue running along each side as far as the spines. [13][16] When threatened, this ray tends to flee at high speed in a zigzag pattern, to throw off pursuers. [13] The bluespotted ribbontail ray excavates sand pits in search of molluscs, polychaete worms, shrimps, crabs, and small benthic bony fishes; when prey is located, it is trapped by the body of the ray and maneuvered into the mouth with the disc. Adult males have been observed gathering in shallow water, which may relate to reproduction. Solitary species. Usually has two venomous spines at the back tip of their tails. In the Pacific Ocean, this species is found from the Philippines to northern Australia, as well as around numerous Melanesian and Polynesian islands as far … Trygon ornatus Gray, 1830. Forget the brown and gray stingrays that you’re used to—the blue-spotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) puts their drab coloring to shame with its olive skin and large, neon-blue spots. [12], While timid and innocuous towards humans, the bluespotted ribbontail ray is capable of inflicting an excruciating wound with its venomous tail spines. Image credit: Kelly Timmons. http://ow.ly/HoEaH, Cephalopods, Crustaceans, & Other Shellfish, Florida Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida, Oceana Wins Lawsuit to Protect Overfished Dusky Sharks, Arabian Sea sharks may be the most threatened in the world, Less than 15 days left this Congress to help sharks, Oceanic Whitetip First Shark Listed as “Threatened” in the Continental U.S. Atlantic. It has blue spots scattered all over its body, and a blue-edged stinging spine at the end of its tail. Widespread in the nearshore waters of the tropical Indo-Pacific region, the bluespotted ribbontail ray has a range that extends around the periphery of the Indian Ocean from South Africa to the Arabian Peninsula to Southeast Asia, including Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. [12]:88 Like other stingrays, this species is aplacental viviparous: the embryos are initially sustained by yolk, which later in development is supplemented by histotroph ("uterine milk", containing mucus, fat, and proteins) produced by the mother. (2009). Threats and protected areas In Queensland, Australia there are many areas for high protection of the bluespotted stingray, three being the Shoalwater, Corio Bay 's Area Ramsar Site, and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park . The blue spotted ribbontail ray is named for its striking bright blue spots. Female rays can have up to seven babies per litter, and the newborn rays display the distinctive blue spots at birth.4, 4. Taeniura lymma. [14] There is also a documented instance of a male holding onto the disc of a smaller male bluespotted stingray (Dasyatis kuhlii), in a possible case of mistaken identity. Bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, MA-10-19-0330-19. Unlike most rays, blue spotted ribbontail rays will rarely bury themselves completely,2 though they sometimes will to ambush prey or when they migrate in large groups to shallow, sandy areas.3, This is a species that prefers to be left alone and are far more likely to swim away from a fight. The Bluespotted Stingray is also commonly referred to as the Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray and Blue Dot Stingray. The bluespotted ribbontail ray is named for its striking bright blue spots. Oceana joined forces with Sailors for the Sea, an ocean conservation organization dedicated to educating and engaging the world’s boating community. The Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray eats many things, such as sea worms, clams, mollusks, shrimp, snails and a variety of small fish. [8] Numerous parasites have been identified from this species: the tapeworms Aberrapex manjajiae,[17] Anthobothrium taeniuri,[18] Cephalobothrium taeniurai,[19] Echinobothrium elegans and E. helmymohamedi,[20][21] Kotorelliella jonesi,[22] Polypocephalus saoudi,[23] and Rhinebothrium ghardaguensis and R. taeniuri,[24] the monogeneans Decacotyle lymmae,[25] Empruthotrema quindecima,[26] Entobdella australis,[27] and Pseudohexabothrium taeniurae,[28] the flatworms Pedunculacetabulum ghardaguensis and Anaporrhutum albidum,[29][30] the nematode Mawsonascaris australis,[31] the copepod Sheina orri,[32] and the protozoan Trypanosoma taeniurae. In the Pacific Ocean, this species is found from the Philippines to northern Australia, as well as around numerous Melanesian and Polynesian islands as far east as the Solo… International Union for Conservation of Nature, 10.2305/IUCN.UK.2005.RLTS.T39412A10229354.en, "Systematics of myliobatoid elasmobranchs: with emphasis on the phylogeny and historical biogeography of neotropical freshwater stingrays (Potamotrygonidae: Rajiformes)", Biological Profiles: Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray, "Anterior adhesive areas and adjacent secretions in the parasitic flatworms, "Biological Profiles: Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray" at Florida Museum of Natural History, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bluespotted_ribbontail_ray&oldid=986890297, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 3 November 2020, at 16:21. Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray Posted on January 15, 2019 January 16, 2019 by Asrar Makrani Bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma), mostly found in the waters of South East Asia, is not exactly endangered but due to overfishing and habitat loss, it is at the threat of extinction. [8][9][12] At night, small groups assemble and swim onto shallow sandy flats with the rising tide to feed. Because of its beauty and size, the bluespotted ribbontail ray is popular with private aquarists despite being poorly suited to captivity. In addition, it … The Blue Spotted Ribbon Tail Stingray is a smaller ray (12 to 14 inches across) has an oval pectoral disc that is usually yellow to brown to olive-green and scattered with blue spots on top, and white underneath. At night, small groups of bluespotted ribbontail rays follow the rising tide onto sandy flats to root for small benthic invertebrates and bony fishes in the sediment. • Men rays are able to detect a female ray by using it's extremely sensitive nose to detect a chemical signal sent out by females that indicates she is receptive [1]. 2004). [12] Many specimens refuse to feed in the aquarium, and seemingly healthy individuals often inexplicably die or stop feeding. Widespread in the nearshore waters of the tropical Indo-Pacific region, the bluespotted ribbontail ray has a range that extends around the periphery of the Indian Ocean from South Africa to the Arabian Peninsula to Southeast Asia, including Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. 2. They use electroreception to help locate prey, picking up on subtle temperature differences and electrical fields generated by other animals in the sand. Froese, Rainer and Pauly, Daniel, eds. The thick, depressed tail measures about 1.5 times the disc length and bears one or two (usually two) serrated spines well behind the tail base; there is a deep fin fold on the ventral surface, reaching the tip of the tail, and a low midline ridge on the upper surface. Unlike many other stingrays, this species seldom buries itself in sand. Blue Spotted Ribbontail Ray. 1 They are also sometimes traded in the private aquarium trade, though these rays rarely thrive in captivity. [10][14], Breeding in the bluespotted ribbontail ray occurs from late spring to summer; the male follows the female and nips at her disc, eventually biting and holding onto her for copulation. 1. The blue-spotted ribbontail ray uses its sting to defend itself. These rays have an electroreceptor system, which they use to find prey and communicate with other members of their species. Your donation will help protect these majestic creatures from habitat destruction and harmful fishing practices. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. Can swim into shallows during high tide and hide in caves during low tide.5. Every spring large numbers are seen off the north coast of South Africa. ... Habitat. The bluespotted ribbontail ray is found in the Indo-West Pacific region including the Red Sea and East Africa to the Solomon Islands north to Japan and south to northern Australia. There is a narrow flap of skin between the nares with a fringed posterior margin, reaching past the mouth. Although relatively common and widely distributed, this species faces continuing degradation of its coral reef habitat throughout its range, from development and destructive fishing practices using cyanide or dynamite. Raja lymma Forsskål, 1775 These rays are threatened around the world due to destructive fishing practices and habitat loss.1 They are also sometimes traded in the private aquarium trade, though these rays rarely thrive in captivity. [10] The bluespotted ribbontail ray grows to 35 cm (14 in) across, 80 cm (31 in) long, and 5 kg (11 lb). There are 15–24 tooth rows in either jaw, arranged into pavement-like plates, and two large papillae on the floor of the mouth. 4 These rays are threatened around the world due to destructive fishing practices and habitat loss. The large, protruding eyes are immediately followed by the broad spiracles. [6], Widespread in the nearshore waters of the tropical Indo-Pacific region, the bluespotted ribbontail ray has a range that extends around the periphery of the Indian Ocean from South Africa to the Arabian Peninsula to Southeast Asia, including Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Reproduction is aplacental viviparous, with females giving birth to litters of up to seven young. They use ampullae of Lorenzini, which are special sensing organs called electroreceptors and form a network of jelly-filled pores to detect slight electrical impulses within the water (Smith et al. The Blue-spotted Ribbontail Ray is found in the Indo-West Pacific region growing up to 35cm in length. The round ribbontail ray (Taeniura meyeni) is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae, found throughout the nearshore waters of the tropical Indo-Pacific, as well as off islands in the eastern Pacific. Its populations are under heavy pressure by artisanal and commercial fisheries, and by local collecting for the aquarium trade.[1]. Found from the intertidal zone to a depth of 30 m (100 ft), this species is common throughout the tropical Indian and western Pacific Oceans in nearshore, coral reef-associated habitats. Blue Spotted Stingray native habitat, distribution, behavior & aquarium compatibility. The body of a bluespotted stingray is more angular which distinguishes it from the bluespotted ribbontail ray. [35] The bluespotted ribbontail ray is utilized as food in East Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia; it is captured intentionally or incidentally using gillnets, longlines, spears, and fence traps. The bluespotted ribbontail ray was originally described as Raja lymma by Swedish naturalist Peter Forsskål, in his 1775 Descriptiones Animalium quae in itinere ad maris australis terras per annos 1772, 1773, et 1774 suscepto collegit, observavit, et delineavit Joannes Reinlioldus Forster, etc., curante Henrico Lichtenstein. [3] Forsskål did not designate a type specimen. Bluespottted Stingrays stays relatively small in comparison to most ray species, but still require a 180 gallon or larger aquarium as an adult. 3. Class Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fishes) Order Myliobatiformes (stingrays). The iridescent blue spots on the body of the bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) are a warning, not an invitation.These rays prefer to be left alone, and will prove it, if necessary, with the lashing of a very long tail armed with two extremely venomous spines. Without the secondary succession, the blue-spotted ribbontail ray wouldn't have been able to outcompete other species for food resources. Known scientifically as the Taeniura lymma, the bluespotted ribbontail ray is a small species of stingray that can be found throughout most shallow waters found within the tropical Indo-Pacific region.It can be found as shallow as the intertidal zone, to a maximum depth of around 30 metres. Trigone macchie blu Bluespotted ray Taeniura Lymma intotheblue.it Found from the intertidal zone to a depth of 30m. However, they do possess two venomous spines on their tail that can cause a very painful. Because of its beauty and size, the bluespotted ribbontail ray is popular with private aquarists despite being poorly suited to captivity. [13] Its attractive appearance and relatively small size has resulted in its being the most common stingray found in the home aquarium trade. The Deep is part of the European Breeding Programme for the bluespotted ribbontail ray and blue spot stingray, as well as the species monitoring programme for the honeycomb whiptail ray. It is rare in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. It is also commonly encountered in the intertidal zone and tidal pools, and has been sighted near seagrass beds. Sign up today to get weekly updates and action alerts from Oceana. Habitat: Natural geographic location: Blue Spotted Stingray or Blue-spotted Ribbontail Ray are found from East Africa to the Western Pacific. We have already protected nearly 4 million square miles of ocean and innumerable sea life - but there is still more to be done. Click here or below to download hands-on marine science activities for kids. The gestation period is uncertain, but is thought to be between four and twelve months long. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed the bluespotted ribbontail ray as Near Threatened. At present, 539 species of ray assessed are under the IUCN Red List, and 107 are classified as threatened. The lower jaw dips at the middle and deep furrows are present at the mouth corners. The bluespotted ribbontail ray can be found in shallow temperate and tropical waters throughout. [9] The dorsal coloration is striking, consisting of numerous circular, neon blue spots on a yellowish brown or green background; the spots vary in size, becoming smaller and denser towards the disc margin. The eyes are bright yellow and the belly is white. The bluespotted ribbontail ray (Taeniura lymma) is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae. Posted on January 15, 2019 January 16, 2019 by Asrar Makrani. Blue spotted ribbontail rays reproduce via eggs that grow inside the mother’s body for a period of four months to a year, and live rays are born shortly after hatching inside the mother. On important issues the coral reefs in the sand 2019 by Asrar Makrani and communicate with other members of tails! ] [ 8 ] Individuals found off southern Africa may lack the blue tail stripes ; Red List and. Intotheblue.It found from East Africa to the western Pacific ocean poorly suited to captivity of the.... Creatures are found from East Africa to the seafloor where they feed found! Is a species of Stingray in the Indian ocean and western Pacific immediately followed the... Babies per litter, and has been sighted near seagrass beds as threatened and.. Floor of the same blue running along each side as far as the blue-spotted ribbontail ray ; Red Status... Support for the Sea, an ocean Conservation organization dedicated to educating and the... 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