Reticulated Whiptail Ray
(Himantura uarnak)
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Animal Type
Sharks and Rays
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Exhibits
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Range
Indian Ocean
Pacific Ocean
Overview
The reticulated whiptail ray has a light brown body with dark brown spots and a solid white underside. Its snout is pointed, and its tail can reach three times the length of its body. The tail usually has one barb on it.
It favors shallow, sandy habitats near the coast—like beaches, lagoons and coral reefs—but also ventures into deep waters.
The gestation period for reticulated whiptail rays is approximately a year. Females give birth to three to five pups in the summer.
Quick Facts
Learn more about the reticulated whiptail ray! Did you know that its tail can be up to three times the length of its body?
It has been spotted in a wide range of waters. It has been found in the Indian Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea. The ray has been found in several locations in the Pacific Ocean, from Taiwan and Southern Japan to Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia. It can also sometimes be found in freshwater habitats.
This ray feeds on small fish, shrimp, crabs, worms and jellyfish.
Reticulated whiptail rays can reach 6 to 7 feet wide and (including their tail) up to 20 feet long. The largest individuals can weigh up to 260 pounds.
The reticulated whiptail ray seems to be uncommon throughout most of its range, and its populations have been trending downward.
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