To see photographs of the Cross-back Stingaree (Urolophus cruciatus) click here.
Cross-back Stingaree (Urolophus cruciatus)
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Also known as the Banded Stingaree, the Cross-back Stingaree (Urolophus
cruciatus) takes both its common and scientific names from the cross-shaped
pattern of black markings on its back. This stingaree’s body colour
varies from pale brown or grey to golden yellow; the bands on the back
are dark brown to black. The short, stout tail has one serrated spine
which can manoeuvred to any part of its body to deliver a painful wound
to any attacker.
Waders and swimmers should be careful of this ray as it is usually well
hidden under a covering of sand in shallow water. It can also be found
on reefs and sand down to depths of 160 m throughout its Victorian and
Tasmanian range. Not only are Crossback Stingarees found as isolated individuals;
they also occur in small to large groups and often they mix with other
species of stingarees. Females produce brightly marked pups in litters
of 2–4 young that grow to an adult size of 50 cm long.