Could this mystery fish be a Stingray?

While the identity of a bizarre looking fish discovered on a Queensland beach yesterday remains a mystery, several punters have put forward their bets on what the species could be. 

Images shared to 9NEWS yesterday show the brown, scaly sea creature atop a rock in Cairns.

It appears to have a long tail similar to a sting ray, while its wide-set eyes are reminiscent of a puffer fish.

The person who snapped photos said debate has already heated up on Facebook about what species the fish is.

"No one can tell me what I'm looking at."

The story has sparked a response from many 9news.com.au readers who claim to know what the mystery fish could be. 

"I spent seven years as a professional fishermen mainly as a trawler lad mainly out of Sydney, this 'fish' is a stingray with its flaps cut off," John Halon wrote. 

Mr Hanlon is not alone in thinking it could be a stingray, with many others reaching the same conclusion. 

Meanwhile, Vicky Shakeshaft believes the fish could be a monkfish and Tom Robinson said he believes its a pufferfish. 

Do you know what this creature is? Email contact@nine.com.au