It takes 8 people to inspect a 140-pound stingray

Getting this annual checkup can be daunting for anyone. For a 140-pound leopard-tailed whipray (Hemantaur tiger) living at the New England Aquarium in Boston, it’s another animal entirely. At the weight of an adult human with a wingspan of four feet, three inches, simply transporting the giant fish from its home to the test tank is an exercise in teamwork.

“This process requires an average of eight people, so we have to make sure we have the right staff to safely perform these tests from both an animal and human safety perspective.” Dr. Cathy Tewksbury“says the New England Aquarium’s chief veterinarian Popular Science.

Tiger whip rays (also called Tiger whip rays) have leopard-like spots and very long, thin tails that can be two to four times the length of their bodies. These tails help them balance and steer through the water and defend themselves against predators. Including the tail, these rays can reach 13 feet in length, and are found in the waters of Southeast Asia and northern Australia.

New England Aquarium is Home to two male tiger whip raysOne weighs 140 pounds and the other weighs 162 pounds. The younger of the two has been there for 17 years and recently had his annual physical.

While examining rays, aquarists focus on collecting fish from their exhibit and bringing them to the test tank. Once anesthetized, the aquarist enters the water using the beam to ensure the water flows over his gills and to keep the beam in place during the examination.

“The test is then performed by one of New England Aquarium’s veterinarians in a similar manner to most other animal species who take a straightforward approach in examining all aspects of the beam,” says Dr. Tewksbury. “The examination also includes performing an ultrasound examination and collecting a blood sample for review.”

The pelvis will perform at least one physical examination per year, as well as other examinations if necessary. As for the last examination of this male, his weight, eyes, skin, and oral health are all normal. His heart, liver, and digestive system are also working as expected. The ray returned to swimming around its exhibit and eating after only 30 minutes. Two tiger whip rays Eat 2.5 pounds of food every day.

You can say hello to the rays and wish them good health in the Shark and Ray Touch Tank.

PopSci’s 2025 Outdoor Gift Guide

Over 20 editor-approved gifts for the hikers on your list