Coffin Ray

Hypnos monopterygius

The Coffin Ray, known scientifically as Hypnos monopterygius, is a unique electric ray endemic to Australian waters. It is easily recognized by its pear-like shape, with enlarged pectoral fins and a very short tail. This species typically reaches a length of about 40 cm, although it can grow up to 70 cm. The Coffin Ray's coloration varies from dark brown to reddish or yellowish hues, often with irregular darker and lighter markings. It has tiny eyes and a large, distensible mouth, making it a distinctive sight for divers. Coffin Rays inhabit shallow coastal waters, favoring sandy or muddy bottoms, and are often found near beaches, estuaries, and bays. They are typically encountered at depths of up to 80 meters, though they have been recorded as deep as 240 meters. As nocturnal creatures, they spend much of the day buried in sediment, emerging at night to hunt. Their diet mainly consists of benthic bony fishes, but they also consume invertebrates like cephalopods and occasionally small penguins and rats. Reproduction in Coffin Rays is aplacental viviparous, with females giving birth to 4–8 pups in the summer. Newborns measure around 8–11 cm. For divers, an encounter with a Coffin Ray can be surprising, as they can deliver a powerful electric shock if accidentally contacted. While not commercially valued, the species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.