New Whipray Species Discovered in Indo-Pacific
Posted on August 3, 2013
A new species of ocellated whipray has been identified by its DNA. Researchers from the IRD (Institut de recherche pour le developpement) announced the discovery in a press release. The researchers analyzed tissue samples of 115 spotted whiprays collected in the Indo-Pacific region. The analysis revealed a new species, Himantura tutu.
Ocellated whiprays can grow over 1.5 meters wide. They have venom glands at the base of their tail and can deliver a painful and potentially infectious sting.
The whiprays are often fished for food and for their skin. Their populations are vulnerable because ocellated whiprays are late breeders. IRD researchers say they do not start breeding until the age of 5 or 10 years. They also have a small number of offspring. As high-level predators, whiprays also play an important role in regulating ecosystems. The IRD says their extinction will threaten the functioning of coastal marine environments.
