Stingrays: Yellow Stingray
Urobatis jamaicensis
YELLOW STINGRAY
Urobatis jamaicensis
Identification
Disc round. Yellowish in color with darker vermiculations or spots dorsally, whitish below. Tail stout with caudal fin well developed (rounded). No dorsal fin. Venomous spine located just anterior to the caudal fin.
Habitat
Commonly found along sandy beaches to the water’s edge, and especially in sandy areas in and around coral reefs. Found to depths of ~80 feet.
Feeding
Benthic feeder. Feeds mainly on bivalves and marine worms and also takes shrimp, crabs, and small fishes.
Reproduction
Aplacental viviparity. Three to four pups per litter.
Size/Age
Wingspan up to 14 inches.
Human Factors
Non-aggressive species of little danger to humans with the exception of their defensive venomous barb located near the base of the tail. Avoid handling or exercise extreme caution. Do the “Stingray shuffle”.
