These dazzling stingrays typically live in and around coral reefs in the western Pacific Ocean. Adults and juveniles are often found in different habitats. Adults prefer deeper reef environments with cooler temperatures. On the other hand, juveniles are seen in shallower waters (like seagrass meadows, mangroves, or rocky shorelines).

Art and fact by Jacqueline Rajerison

[Edited by Isabelle McDonald]

References:

Dabruzzi, T.F., Bennett, W.A., Rummer, J.L. et al. Juvenile Ribbontail Stingray, Taeniura lymma (Forsskål, 1775) (Chondrichthyes, Dasyatidae), demonstrate a unique suite of physiological adaptations to survive hyperthermic nursery conditions. Hydrobiologia 701, 37–49 (2013).