Indian Ocean Blue-spotted Maskray – Neotrygon indica

The Indian Ocean Blue-spotted Maskray, scientifically known as Neotrygon indica, is a fascinating species of ray found in the Indian Ocean. This ray is characterized by its distinctive blue spots, which adorn its body, and its relatively small size, making it an intriguing inhabitant of the underwater world.

Description & Characteristics

The Indian Ocean Blue-spotted Maskray, Neotrygon indica, is a relatively small species, with an average maximum size of 31.4 cm. Its distinguishing feature is its blue spots, which are scattered across its dorsal surface, adding to its unique appearance. This ray is typically found in shallow waters, where it utilizes its flattened body and wing-like pectoral fins to maneuver effortlessly through the water column.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Indian Ocean Blue-spotted Maskray, Neotrygon indica, is a common inhabitant of various marine habitats within the Indian Ocean. It favors a variety of environments, including bays, coral reefs, muddy grounds, rubble floors, and sandy seafloors. These adaptable rays can be found in the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic., making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.

Taxonomy

The species Neotrygon indica belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Myliobatiformes, and Family: Dasyatidae. This classification places it among the cartilaginous fishes, specifically within the group of rays and skates that are characterized by their flattened bodies and gill slits on their ventral surface.

Feeding

The Indian Ocean Blue-spotted Maskray, Neotrygon indica, is a carnivorous species that relies on a diverse diet. Its feeding habits encompass a wide range of prey items, including clams, crabs, crustaceans, fish (particularly small fishes), flatfish, shrimps, snails, worms, and zoobenthos. Its predatory nature makes it an important component of the marine ecosystem, helping to regulate the populations of its prey species.