Hemitrygon laosensis (Roberts & Karnasuta 1987)

Distinguished from the other stingray species in the Mekong basin by the presence of a ventral and a dorsal skin folds on the tail and the bright orange color of the ventral surface of the disc. The middle disc is whitish with scattered large orange spots. The dorsal surface of the disc is brown (Ref. 27732). Disc longer than wide; tail longer than body (Ref. 12693). Lacking caudal fin; with long whip-like tail (Ref. 43281).

Exhibit ovoviparity (aplacental viviparity), with embryos feeding initially on yolk, then receiving additional nourishment from the mother by indirect absorption of uterine fluid enriched with mucus, fat or protein through specialised structures (Ref. 50449). Distinct pairing with embrace (Ref. 205).

Potamodromous. Migrating within streams, migratory in rivers, e.g. Saliminus, Moxostoma, Labeo. Migrations should be cyclical and predictable and cover more than 100 km.

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 0; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 0

Obligate freshwater stingray that occurs over sandy substrate in large rivers. Feeds on bottom-dwelling invertebrates (Ref. 12693). Ovoviviparous (Ref. 50449). Marketed fresh (Ref. 32457).

fisheries: minor commercial