Himantura Kittipongi freshwater stingray

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.