The top spinetail ray (Pastinachus sephen), also known as the cowtail stingray, is a large species of stingray found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to northern Australia and Southeast Asia. Recognized for its broad, diamond-shaped disc and distinctive whip-like tail with a venomous spine, this ray inhabits coastal sandy and muddy bottoms, often near coral reefs and estuaries. The top spinetail ray is primarily targeted for its meat, skin (used for leather), and cartilage, with significant commercial and artisanal fisheries operating in countries such as India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. These nations are among the top harvesters due to the ray’s abundance in their coastal waters and the high demand for its products in local and export markets. However, heavy fishing pressure, often unregulated or poorly managed, raises concerns about the sustainability of top spinetail ray populations in these regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norway | 50 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.