What is leopard sting ray?

Leopard stingrays, also known as Panthera rays, are a type of stingray that inhabits the waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Central and South America. They are characterized by their circular or diamond-shaped disc body, which can reach up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) in width, covered in distinctive black spots and markings, resembling that of a leopard.

These stingrays are bottom-dwellers and can be found in shallow coastal waters, lagoons and around coral reefs, where they feed on a variety of prey, including crabs, shrimp, and small fish. They have a venomous barb on their tail, which is used for defense against predators or perceived threats.

Despite their venomous barb, leopard stingrays are generally harmless to humans and are mostly caught for commercial or recreational purposes. They are considered a near-threatened species due to overfishing and habitat loss, and their populations have declined significantly in recent years. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these unique and beautiful creatures.