Whiptail stingrays
Pelagic stingray (Pteroplatytrygon violacea)
The Pelagic stingray (Pteroplatytrygon violacea) belongs to the family Dasyatidae (whiptail stingrays) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 80 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. Treat it with caution (danger): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Pteroplatytrygon violacea |
|---|---|
| Family | Whiptail stingrays (Dasyatidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pastinaca pelagica |
| Common name (EN) | Pelagic stingray |
| Maximum size | 80 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
| Hazard | Danger |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Danger: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Diving safety
Danger. This ray carries a serrated tail spine. Injuries occur when it is stepped on or cornered on the bottom — shuffle your feet and give it room.
If it happens
- Leave the water and control bleeding with direct pressure.
- Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 °C) for 30–90 minutes.
- Watch for signs of shock; call for help if they appear.
After
- Seek medical care: the wound often retains spine fragments and infects easily. Tetanus cover if needed.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Pelagic stingray belong to?
- The Pelagic stingray (Pteroplatytrygon violacea) belongs to the family Dasyatidae (whiptail stingrays).
- Is the Pelagic stingray dangerous?
- It needs caution: Danger. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Pelagic stingray endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Pelagic stingray get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 80 cm.
Explore the Pelagic stingray in 3D in the interactive atlas →