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Typhlonarke
''Typhlonarke'' is a genus of sleeper ray in the family Narkidae, containing two poorly known species. The group is known for producing electric shocks for defense. Both species are deep-sea rays endemic to the waters off New Zealand. They are not to be confused with the blind electric rays of the genus ''Benthobatis''. Taxonomy ''Typhlonarke'' was created by Edgar R. Waite, in a 1909 issue of the scientific journal ''Records of the Canterbury Museum''. Species * '' Typhlonarke aysoni'' A. Hamilton, 1902 (Blind electric ray) * '' Typhlonarke tarakea'' Phillipps, 1929 (Oval electric ray) Distribution and habitat Both ''Typhlonarke'' species are native to New Zealand; the exact distribution of each species is uncertain due to confusion between the two. They have been caught by trawls off the east coast of North Island south of East Cape, South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura, Chatham Rise ( Mernoo Bank and Chatham Islands), and the Snares Shelf. They occur at a depth of 46–800 ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
Typhlonarke Tarakea The oval electric ray (''Typhlonarke aysoni'') is a little-known species of sleeper ray in the family Narkidae. It is endemic to New Zealand, where it is generally found on the sea floor at a depth of . Seldom exceeding in length, this species has a thick, oval pectoral fin disc and a short, stout tail with a single dorsal fin. It is blind, as its tiny eyes are covered by skin. Its pelvic fins are divided in two, with the anterior portion forming a limb-like appendage. These appendages likely allow the ray, which may not be able to swim at all, to "walk" along the bottom. The claspers of adult males extend beyond the disc. Polychaete worms are known to be part of its diet, and its reproduction is aplacental viviparous. It can produce an electric shock for defense. The International Union for Conservation of Nature presently lacks the data to assess its conservation status. Taxonomy The oval electric ray was described by William John Phillipps of the Dominion Museum, in a 1929 vo ... [...More I |