How is the body shape of the Xingu River Ray typically described, differentiating it from its marine cousins?
Answer
Flattened and disc-shaped, often described as round
The physical description of the Xingu River Ray emphasizes its adaptation to a benthic (bottom-dwelling) existence in freshwater. It possesses a flattened body structure that forms a disc shape, commonly characterized as being round. This morphology is markedly different from certain marine relatives and is perfectly suited for moving across soft river sediment or resting partially concealed on the riverbed.

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