Armored stingray caught by fishermen in Hatay, Turkey

Amateur fishermen in the Antakya district of Hatay have reported catching an unusual armored stingray in the Asi River. The fish, characterized by a leopard-like pattern, a hard shell, and spiny protrusions, caused initial concern among locals who feared it might be poisonous.

Bedrettin Okuyucu, a hobbyist fisherman with 20 years of experience in the area, stated that he had never encountered such a species before. Alongside his companion, Mustafa Uslu, Okuyucu noted that the catch included one large individual and several smaller juveniles.

While the exact origin of the fish in the river remains unknown, some residents suggest it may have been released from an aquarium. The fishermen have kept the specimen alive, though they have advised against consuming it due to its appearance and unknown properties.