The reticulate whipray is also called the leopard ray, honeycomb stingray, and reticulate whiptail ray. It is one of about 20 ray species in which the common name includes whipray. This ray’s dorsal side is covered in an intricate pattern of conspicuous dark spots from which it gets the reticulate part of its common name. It inhabits tropical and subtropical waters in sandy areas of coral reefs and in lagoons and estuaries.
These rays are bottom feeders for the most part. Their diet consists primarily of small fishes and a variety of invertebrates including crabs, bivalves, worms, shrimps, and sea jellies. They use their pectoral wings to uncover hidden prey.
Sexes are separate and fertilization is internal. Reproduction in whiprays is called ovoviviparity or aplacental viviparity with histotrophy. In its early developmental stage, the embryo receives its nutrition from the egg yolk. Then it breaks and sheds the thin membrane of the egg capsule and receives its nourishment from a fluid called histotroph or ‘uterine milk’ which is secreted from villi, appendages in the wall of the female’s uterus. These uterine extensions also provide the embryo with oxygen and remove its waste.
Three to five pups are born during the summer months. At birth they are about 90 cm (35 in) in total length with a disc diameter of about 20 cm (7.9 in). The pup emerges tail first with its pectoral fins wrapped around its body. Its spines are pliable and encased in sheaths, preventing injury to the female during birthing. The natal sheath is discarded and the spines harden soon after birth. The pups resemble miniature adults and are independent at birth. Mating occurs again shortly after the birthing process.