description Feathertail stingray Overview
The feathertail stingray is a common name for Pastinachus sephen, also called the cowtail stingray, a species in the family Dasyatidae. It occurs across much of the Indo-Pacific in coastal marine habitats, including sandy and coral-associated areas, and can enter estuaries and freshwater environments. The ray has a broad rhomboid disc, a long tail with a prominent ventral skin fold, and a venomous spine used for defense.
help Feathertail stingray FAQ
What is the scientific name of the feathertail stingray?
The feathertail stingray is commonly identified as Pastinachus sephen and is also called the cowtail stingray. It belongs to the stingray family Dasyatidae.
Where does Pastinachus sephen live?
It occurs in tropical coastal waters across parts of the Indo-Pacific and can inhabit sandy bottoms, reefs, brackish water, estuaries, and occasionally freshwater. FishBase lists a depth range from the surface to about 60 metres.
How large can a feathertail stingray become?
FishBase records a maximum disc width of about 183 centimetres for Pastinachus sephen. Its broad-based tail has a distinctive lower finfold that gives the animal its cowtail or feathertail appearance.
Does the feathertail stingray have a venomous spine?
Yes, the species has one or two long stinging spines positioned toward the rear of the tail. That makes it important to observe from a safe distance and never handle a wild ray, even in shallow water.
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