|
Torpedo fuscomaculata Peters, 1855 Black-spotted torpedo |
| Family: | Torpedinidae (Electric rays) | |||
| Max. size: | 64 cm TL (male/unsexed) | |||
| Environment: | reef-associated; brackish; marine; depth range 0 - 439 m | |||
| Distribution: | Western Indian Ocean: from South Africa to Zanzibar and possibly as far north as the Kenyan coast. (Ref. 83892). Possibly occurring off smaller islands in the Indian Ocean but identity of specimens uncertain and need verification (Ref. 5578). Found in estuaries in South Africa during periods of high salinity (Ref. 114953). | |||
| Diagnosis: | Large ray with a small caudal fin and small papillae around the spiracles (Ref. 5578). Dull grey above with variable markings, often in the form of dark lines or large spots; white below (Ref. 5578). | |||
| Biology: | Inhabits estuaries and intertidal zone down to 439 m (Ref. 5578). Found in sandy areas near deep rocky reefs (Ref. 2712). Feeds on fishes and cuttlefish (Ref. 5578). Ovoviviparous (Ref. 50449). Large prey probably stunned by its powerful electric discharge (Ref. 5578). Young born in the summer (Ref. 5578). Common accidental catch of anglers (Ref. 114953). | |||
| IUCN Red List Status: | Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 24 April 2018 Ref. (130435) | |||
| Threat to humans: | other | |||
Source and more info: www.fishbase.org. For personal, classroom, and other internal use only. Not for publication.