Common names
Bobward’s Bluespotted Maskray, Sumatran Bluespotted Maskray.
Binomial
Neotrygon bobwardi.
Synonyms
None.
Identification
Bobward’s Bluespotted Maskray is identified through molecular markers (mitochondrial DNA) rather than unique physical traits. Consequently, the following physical characteristics are general approximations.
A small stingray with a kite-shaped disc that is wider than long. Snout bluntly angular. Tip of snout not extended. Anterior margins of disc weakly convex. Pectoral fin apices angular. Pelvic fins large; apices narrowly rounded.
Eyes large and protruding. Mouth small. Prominent labial furrows and folds around mouth. Nasal curtain narrow and skirt-shaped.
Tail broad and depressed at base, tapering gently to caudal sting, then thin but firm to tip. Tail length (when intact) approximately up to 1.5 x disc width. Ventral finfold long and low. Dorsal finfold very short; approximately .2 x ventral fold length. 1-2 tail stings usually present.
Colour
Colour description based on personal observations of numerous individuals from northern Sumatra. Dorsum brownish grey with a distinct golden to reddish brown band across eyes, a relatively sparse scattering of roughly eye-sized pale blue spots, and numerous small black flecks. Blue spots mostly confined to pectoral fins. Small oval gap in mask/band between eyes. Small cluster of black spots centrally posterior to eyes. Ventrum white/pale. Tail pale blue dorsally from base to beyond caudal stings, then irregular black and white bands to tip. Caudal finfolds pale blue.
Size
Maximum disc width unknown.
Conservation Status
NEAR THREATENED
Bobward’s bluespotted maskray has not been assessed by the IUCN. Most assessed maskrays in Southeast Asia are listed as ‘Least Concern’, but maskrays in general are targeted and a retained bycatch in fisheries throughout most of their ranges.
Habitat
Tropical seas. On sandy substrates, often adjacent to reefs. Intertidal to at least 15m
Distribution
Bobward’s bluespotted maskray is found around northern Sumatra, from Sabang Island southward to at least Padang.
Reproduction
Aplacental viviparity. Litter size unknown.
Diet
Diet unknown.
Behavior
Rests in shallow water under a covering of sand by day. Becomes more active towards dusk. I have observed individuals closely following each other even when one animal was already clearly gravid.
Reaction to divers
Fairly easy to approach especially when accustomed to divers.
Diving logistics
Bobward’s bluespotted maskray is abundant off the northern tip of Sumatra around Pulau Weh (aka Sabang Island). In Sabang Bay, I have seen dozens on a single shore dive.
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Similar species
Malacca Strait Bluespotted Maskray (Neotrygon malaccensis) A virtually identical species from the northern region of the Malacca Strait and eastern Andaman Sea
