Description
The Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray (Taeniura lymma), also known as Bluespotted Lagoon Ray is a species of Ray found in Indo-Pacific oceans. It is commonly found near coral reefs and sandy bottoms. The ray has a circular shape and disc-like body with vibrant blue spots covering the upper-side of its body. It tail is relatively long and whip-like, with one or two venomous spikes at the base of the tail, used for defense.
Habitat
Found in Indo-Pacific oceans, it is commonly living near or within the rocky crevices of coral reefs and sandy bottoms.
Diet
Generally eat small fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. It detects prey by the electrical field impulses given off and uses its powerful teeth lined mouth to crush prey. The ray hunts at night and will leave its hiding place to hunt for prey.
Appearance
These are relatively small rays, yellow, greeny olive in colour with vibrant blue spots scattered across its upper body, with a white under body. Reaching a length of up to 70cm. The ray has a circular shape and disc-like body, it’s tail is relatively long and whip-like, with one or two venomous spikes at the base of the tail, used for defense.
Key Features
- Most recognisable for its bright blue spots.
- Oval shaped body and yellow, olive colour.
- Blue streaked tail has two spines which are venomous.
- Often covered in sand on the sandy bottoms of coral reef under shelter.
Threats
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concerned
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally eat small fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. It detects prey by the electrical field impulses given off and uses its powerful teeth lined mouth to crush prey. The ray hunts at night and will leave its hiding place to hunt for prey.
These are relatively small rays, yellow, greeny olive in colour with vibrant blue spots scattered across its upper body, with a white under body. Reaching a length of up to 70cm.
These rays are generally considered to be non-aggressive towards humand, although it is important to take precautions. If threatened the ray could defend with its barbed tail.
