RAY

n.

Any of 300–350 mostly marine species of cartilaginous fish (order Batoidei) found worldwide and classified as electric rays , sawfishes , skates , and stingrays .

Many species are slow-moving bottom-dwellers. The gill openings and mouth are on the underside of the flattened body. Winglike pectoral fins extend along the sides of the head. All but electric rays have a long, slender tail, often with saw-edged, venomous spines, and rough, often spiny, skin. See also manta ray .