The oval electric ray was described by William John Phillipps of the Dominion Museum, in a 1929 volume of the New Zealand Journal of Science and Technology.

Hamilton obtained the specimen at the fish market at Dunedin and made note of its different shape, but did not recognize it as a distinct species.

[6][7] Confusion between the two Typhlonarke species has led to uncertainty regarding the extent of the oval electric ray's distribution.

[1] The pectoral fin disc of the oval electric ray is ovoid in shape, tapering smoothly towards the rear, and has a very thick margin.

The eyes are minute and located 2–3 mm (0.079–0.118 in) beneath the surface of the skin; though not visible externally, their positions are marked by small white patches.

The tail is short and thick, with faint lateral skin folds running along the sides, and ends in a nearly circular caudal fin.

Each organ consists of 180–200 relatively large, fluid-filled hexagonal columns, which essentially act as batteries connected in parallel.

[4][8] The oval electric ray is sightless and captures prey via suction; it is known to feed on polychaete worms.

[1] The oval electric ray is susceptible to capture in bottom trawls, and the presence of major commercial fishing activity within its range may merit concern.