Stingray
Stingray
Stingray (/ˈstɪŋˌreɪ/) is a group of sea rays, which are cartilaginous fish related to sharks. They are classified in the suborder Myliobatoidei of the order Myliobatiformes and consist of eight families.
Etymology
The term "stingray" is derived from the Old English word "stingan", which means to sting, and the Middle English word "ray", which refers to a beam of light or a flat surface. This is likely due to the stingray's flat body shape and its ability to sting predators with its tail.
Anatomy
Stingrays are characterized by their flattened bodies, enlarged pectoral fins that are fused to the head, and the distinctive, whip-like tails equipped with venomous stingers. The stinger, or spine, can reach up to 35 cm long and is serrated along the lateral edges.
Behavior
Stingrays are usually non-aggressive and only use their venomous tail spines as a defense mechanism when threatened. They are known for their unique behavior of burying themselves in the sand on the ocean floor to camouflage from predators.
Related Terms
- Cartilaginous Fish: A group of fish that includes sharks, rays, and skates. They are characterized by their skeletons made primarily of cartilage rather than bone.
- Sharks: A group of elasmobranch fish characterized by a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head, and pectoral fins that are not fused to the head.
- Spine: In the context of stingrays, the spine refers to the venomous stinger located on the tail.
- Venom: A type of poison, typically secreted by animals such as snakes, spiders, and stingrays, used to immobilize or kill prey or as a defense against predators.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stingray
- Wikipedia's article - Stingray
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