DD

Data Deficient

Version

2006

Smith, W.D., Bizzarro, J.J. & Lamilla, J.

Kyne, P.M. & Fowler, S.L. (Shark Red List Authority)

Dasyatis dipterura is a broadly distributed but poorly known stingray from the eastern Pacific. Biological and fishery information is primarily available from México where D. dipterura is commonly landed among artisanal elasmobranch fisheries and frequently taken as bycatch in trawl fisheries (especially by shrimp trawlers). Populations from the Mexican Pacific display seasonal movement patterns related to reproductive events, but no information is available on trends in abundance. Recent studies indicate that this stingray is relatively long lived (to at least 28 years), has a low fecundity (1 to 4), and a low intrinsic rate of increase. Female growth rates are estimated to be among the lowest reported for any batoid. These combined factors indicate that D. dipterura populations are of low productivity and demonstrate limited resilience to fishing pressure. Due to its vulnerability and importance within the unregulated artisanal elasmobranch fishery, this stingray is considered Near Threatened in México. Based on the lack of information pertaining to the biology, distribution, and fisheries for this species throughout the majority of its range, D. dipterura is classified as Data Deficient in the USA as well as Central and South America. Where is it taken in fisheries in those regions it may prove to be at risk when more information is available.