In Australia, rays, a diverse group of cartilaginous fish within the class Chondrichthyes, are common in coastal and reef environments. Australian waters host various species of rays, including stingrays, eagle rays, and manta rays.
These graceful creatures are characterised by their flattened bodies and wide pectoral fins, which they use to glide through the water. Stingrays, in particular, are known for their venomous tail spines, which they use for defence. Australia’s diverse marine ecosystems, from the Great Barrier Reef to southern coastal regions, provide a rich habitat for rays, allowing them to thrive in a range of conditions.
