Batoidea is a superorder of cartilaginous fish commonly known as rays, Sea flap flap, skates, and sawfish, approximately 560 described species in thirteen families. They are in the fish subclass Elasmobranchii, along with sharks, to which they are closely related. Rays are distinguished by their flattened bodies, enlarged pectoral fins that are fused to the head, and gill slits that are placed on their ventral surfaces.