description Ornate Maskray Overview
The ornate maskray (Neotrygon annotata) is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae, endemic to the shallow coastal waters of northern Australia. It is distinguished by its distinctive dark reticulated or net-like patterning across its disc surface. Like other stingrays, it possesses a venomous tail spine used for defense against predators. This species primarily inhabits benthic environments in the Indo-Pacific region, resting on or buried in the sandy sea floor.
help Ornate Maskray FAQ
Where does the ornate maskray live?
The ornate maskray, Neotrygon annotata, is endemic to shallow coastal waters of northern Australia. It is a benthic ray that spends much of its time near sandy or muddy seafloors.
How can I identify an ornate maskray?
Its most noticeable feature is a dark reticulated, or net-like, pattern across the upper surface of its disc. That pattern separates it visually from many more uniformly colored stingrays.
Is the ornate maskray a true stingray?
Yes. It belongs to the stingray family Dasyatidae and has the flattened disc and venomous tail spine associated with that group. It should be observed without touching or cornering it.
What is the scientific name of the ornate maskray?
Its scientific name is Neotrygon annotata. The genus Neotrygon includes several maskrays identified by distinctive dorsal markings and coastal Indo-Pacific distributions.
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