Members of the Rhinopterinae are found in the warm-temperate and tropical continental seas worldwide. There is a single known genus and 9 species worldwide. They can be found from the seashore to a depth of at least 26 m, occurring on soft bottom in estuaries, lagoons, and enclosed and open bays. These rays are strong and active swimmers, found near or on the bottom but often swimming well above it in large school. They are more active than the stingrays and less likely to be stepped upon. Their stinging spine, which is close to the tail base, is not particularly effective as a defensive weapon. All species are live-bearing, bearing up to 6 young at a time. The powerful jaws and plate-like teeth, fitting close together in mosaic arrangement, form a grinding mill that allows these rays to feed on hard-shelled mollusks which includes crabs, lobsters, oysters, and clams.