Thursday, October 16, 2008

Torpedo Rays


After my last post, I thought I would do some researching on torpedo rays. Torpedo rays come from the family of Torpediniformes also known as electric rays. They are known for being capable of producing an electric discharge, ranging from as little as 8 volts up to 220 volts depending on species, used to stun prey and for defense. A submarine torpedo is actually named after the torpedo rays. The name comes from the Latin "torpere", to be stiffened or paralyzed, referring to the effect on someone who handles or steps on a living electric ray.


There are 15-22 species and the largest species is the Atlantic Torpedo which can grow to a weight of 90 kilograms and deliver a 220-volt electric shock.

I found this picture and info on Wikipedia...but couldn't find an exact picture of the Atlantic Torpedo Ray:(

No comments: