© WWF Cannon Thailand
The Himantura Kittipongi freshwater stingray, found in the Mekong Basin of western Thailand
Discovered in 2004
The Himantura kittipongi freshwater stingray, measures 60 centimeters (23.6 inches) in width, and was first observed in 2004 but was only confirmed as a new species by researchers from WWF-Thailand and the US-based Smithsonian Institute in 2006.The new species was named Himantura kittipongi after prominent Thai fish expert Kittipong Jaruthanin who first observed the ray in 2004.
Chances for long-term survival are slim
Thai rivers have been plagued by serious pollution, overfishing and dam building, which have taken a deadly toll on Thailand's once diverse and abundant river life. The ray is believed to exist in only small numbers.