Pearl stingray
📖 Overview
Dasyatis margaritella is the most common littoral stingray on the West African coast and it enter lagoons, shallow bays and estuaries . Most likely feeds on small invertebrates . Ovoviviparous .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Vertebrae: 116 - 128. Diagnosis: Dasyatis margaritella is the smallest dasyatid in West Africa . It is most similar to Dasyatis margarita, which is larger and has a larger pearl spine, and more numerous pectoral radials, 133-135 vs. 116-127 in D. margaritella . It is also similar to D. garouaensis, which has a much flatter disc and a longer snout . : other; Cross section: flattened.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Pearl stingray is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Pearl stingray is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Exhibit ovoviparity (aplacental viviparity), with embryos feeding initially on yolk, then receiving additional nourishment from the mother by indirect absorption of uterine fluid enriched with mucus, fat or protein through specialised structures . Distinct pairing with embrace .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; brackish; demersal; depth range ? - 60 m . Tropical Central Atlantic: West African coast from Cape Blanc in Mauritania to Angola (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
small invertebrates (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dasyatis margaritella | Compagno & Roberts | 1984 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 5 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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