How do the white spots on adult P. leopoldi often evolve compared to young individuals?
Answer
Transition into circles which can break into irregular white flecks
The appearance of the white markings on the dorsal surface changes significantly as the Xingu River Ray ages. Young individuals tend to display a simpler pattern consisting of basic black, white, or gray markings. However, in adults, these solid white spots undergo a transformation; they frequently develop into distinct circles. Over further maturation, these circles are prone to breaking apart, resulting in clusters of irregular white flecks distributed across the dark disc. Despite this evolution, the spots remain densely distributed, although those near the disc margin tend to be smaller.
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