blackspotted electric ray

Torpedo fuscomaculata

Fish Reaching Sixty Four Centimeters in the Western Indian Ocean

Black
Tropical
Estuary
Regional distribution
Indian Ocean
Africa
Other
Large
Tropical fish

The black-spotted torpedo (Torpedo fuscomaculata) is a poorly known, uncommon species of electric ray in the family Torpedinidae, known for being capable of generating an electric shock. It is endemic to southern Africa and possibly several small Indian Ocean islands, although the latter reports may represent undescribed new species. Its appearance is similar to the Gulf torpedo (Torpedo sinuspersici), but it is duller in coloration.

Class: Sharks and Rays
Order: Electric Rays
Family: Torpedinidae
Genus: Torpedo
Maximum length: 64 cm
Body shape: other
Distribution: Western Indian Ocean: from South Africa to Zanzibar and possibly as far north as the Kenyan coast. (Ref. 83892 ). Possibly occurring off smaller islands in the Indian Ocean but identity of specimens uncertain and need verification (Ref. 5578 ). Found in estuaries in South Africa during periods of high salinity (Ref. 114953 ).
Conservation status: DDData Deficient

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