The Porcupine Ray is a species of stingray that does not have a venomous sting on its tail.
The whiptail stingrays are a family of rays. They are found worldwide in tropical to temperate marine waters, and a number of species have also penetrated into fresh water. They range in size from 18 cm (7.1 in) to almost 2 m (6.6 ft) across. Members of this family have flattened pectoral fin discs that range from oval to diamond-like in shape. Their common name comes from their whip-like tails, which are much longer than the disc and lack dorsal and caudal fins. All whiptail stingrays, except the porcupine ray (Urogymnus asperrimus), have one or more venomous barbs near the base of the tail, which is used in defense.
The Porcupine Ray has an oval-shaped disc that is covered with plate-like tenticles and sharp thorns which replace the venomous sting as defense weapon. The young lack the thorns, but bear numerous large, flat denticles on the upper surface of the body. These rough scales give the ray’s skin a leathery texture.
Little is known about the life history of the porcupine ray. It forages on and around the sea-bed for bottom-dwelling crustaceans, polychaete worms and fish.