Marine researchers have discovered a new species of the genus Stingray Neotrygon residing in the waters of Fiji.
Vibrant colors of Neotrygon Romeoi from around Fiji. Image credit: Glaus et al., doi: 10.1111/jfb.70094.
Neotrygon is a genus of stingrays found extensively in the West Pacific region of India.
Commonly referred to as mask rays, these animals are uniquely identifiable within the family Dasyatidae by a dark band present in the interorbital area, which results in distinctive black and white banding towards the latter part of the tail and two nipple-like structures in the mouth.
Currently, there are 17 recognized species of Neotrygon, with ten of these described since 2016.
The majority of these species (14) are believed to belong to the blue-spotted maskray complex.
The newly identified species, found exclusively in Fiji’s waters, has been named Neotrygon Romeoi, previously confused with Neotrygon kuhlii and Neotrygon trigonoides.
“It is characterized by its broad, angular snout, long claspers in adult males, and a row of spine-like structures extending from the neck to the tail’s base,” explained Dr. Kelstin Grousse, a researcher at the University of South Pacific.
“The ray’s brown dorsal surface is adorned with dark, mask-like patterns around its eyes, and it features two large patches behind its spirals, along with numerous small black spots surrounding its face.”
The description of Neotrygon Romeoi is based on nine specimens (31-39.7 cm disc width) procured from the Suva fish market and collected by local fishermen. Notably, none of the rays were killed for research purposes.
“Rays are among the most threatened marine species,” stated Dr. Glaus.
“Considering their limited distribution, high catch volumes, and unknown life histories, it is advisable to evaluate them for protection under Fiji’s Endangered and Species Conservation Act. This act is particularly relevant for endemic sharks and rays, assisting in the preservation of native biodiversity by regulating trade and the protection of certain vulnerable species.”
“This discovery underscores Fiji’s unique natural heritage and the urgent necessity to enhance our understanding and conservation of marine species,” added Lavenie Tawake, team leader of the Pacific European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) program.
The discovery of Neotrygon Romeoi has been documented in a study published in the Journal of Fish Biology.
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Kirsten Grousse et al. A new species of blue-spotted maskray (Neotrygon, Dasyatidae) from Fiji. Journal of Fish Biology published online on June 9th, 2025. doi:10.1111/jfb.70094
Source: www.sci.news
