The family Dasyatidae, commonly known as stingrays, includes a variety of flat-bodied cartilaginous fish found in both freshwater and marine environments. They are characterized by their broad, disc-shaped bodies and long, slender tails, which often contain venomous spines used for defense against predators. Stingrays are typically bottom-dwellers, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are known for their unique ability to camouflage themselves in sandy or muddy substrates, making them less visible to both prey and potential threats. Some species, such as the Southern stingray, are popular in aquariums and are often studied for their behavior and ecology.