Tetronarce macneilli

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Tetronarce macneilli
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Chondrichthyes
Subclass: Elasmobranchii
Superorder: Batoidea
Order: Torpediniformes
Family: Torpedinidae
Genus: Tetronarce
Species:
T. macneilli
Binomial name
Tetronarce macneilli
Whitley, 1932
Synonyms

Tetronarce macneilli, commonly known as the shorttail torpedo, is a species of large electric ray. The taxonomy of the species has been long debated and has been suggested that it is synonymous with Torpedo fairchildi.[1]

Distribution and Habitat[edit]

This species is found off of southern Australia from Port Hedland to the Swain Reefs in tropical-cool temperate waters. It is noted for having an unusually large range for a ray species. It inhabits sloped continental shelves and slopes from 90 metres (300 ft) to 750 metres (2,460 ft). It feeds on fishes and crustaceans.[1]

Description[edit]

T. macneilli can grow up to 107 centimetres (42 in) long. It is capable of delivering an intense electric shock if handled in defense and also uses this ability to hunt prey.[2]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b Froese, Rainer; Pauly, Daniel (eds.) (2015). "Torpedo macneilli" in FishBase. April 2015 version.
  2. ^ Compagno, L.J.V. & Last, P.R. (1999): Torpedinidae. Torpedoes. p. 1449-1451. In K.E. Carpenter and V.H. Niem (eds.) FAO identification guide for fishery purposes. The living marine resources of the Western Central Pacific. FAO, Rome.