stingrays, known as dasyatidae in scientific terminology, are regular inhabitants of the seas and shallows of greater rio's coast - they have a sting that tends to cause pain for up to hours, but can also result in restlessness, an increased heart-rate (tachycardia), vomiting, and in the worst cases death from anaphylactic shock.

cases of death are however exceptionally rare, tending to only occur if a vital organ is wounded, or if the victim has a severe allergy to the venom - experts state that bathers should not be too preoccupied about the presence of these stingrays as they do not tend to attack and mean no harm to humans.

the sting protruding from the stingray's spine can remain venomous after the creature's death - experts advise that those who have been stung should seek immediate medical attendance and in the meantime the wound should be washed with hot water and saline (a salt water solution).