 The common stingray ( Dasyatis pastinaca ) is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae , found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean and Black Seas . It typically inhabits sandy or muddy habitats in coastal waters shallower than 60 m ( 200 ft ) , often burying itself in sediment . Usually measuring 45 cm ( 18 in ) across , the common stingray has a diamond @-@ shaped pectoral fin disc slightly wider than long , and a whip @-@ like tail with upper and lower fin folds . It can be identified by its plain coloration and mostly smooth skin , except for a row of tubercles along the midline of the back in the largest individuals . 
