Topic summary

Electric ray

Electric ray

The electric rays are a group of rays, flattened cartilaginous fish with enlarged pectoral fins, composing the order Torpediniformes. They are known for being capable of producing an electric discharge, ranging from 8 to 220 volts, depending on species, used to stun prey and for defense. There are 69 species in four families.

Perhaps the best known members are those of the genusTorpedo. The torpedo undersea weapon is named after it. The name comes from the Latintorpere, 'to be stiffened or paralyzed', from the effect on someone who touches the fish.