Atlantic stingray

Description:

These are cartilaginous fish which are related to sharks. Most stingrays have one or more barbed stingers (modified from dermal denticles) on the tail, which are used exclusively in self-defense. The stinger may reach a length of approximately 35 cm (14 in), and its underside has two grooves with venom glands. The stinger is covered with a thin layer of skin, the integumentary sheath, in which the venom is concentrated. The Atlantic stingray’s tail is long and whip-like, with a serrated spine measuring a quarter of the width of the disk. The spine is replaced annually between June and October.

Habitat:

Atlantic Ocean shallows near island

Notes:

This one was caught by a shore fisherman, who removed the hook and maneuvered the stingray back into the surf so that it could swim back to freedom.