Aetobatus laticeps, commonly known as the Wide-headed Eagle Ray, is a fascinating species of ray found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species is distinguished by its distinctive wide, flattened head, which gives it its common name.
Description & Characteristics
Aetobatus laticeps is a large ray, reaching a maximum size of 230.0 cm. The species has a characteristically broad, flattened head with large, forward-facing eyes. The body is typically gray to brown, with darker markings on the dorsal surface. Like other eagle rays, it possesses wing-like pectoral fins that are used for locomotion.
Habitat and Occurrence
Aetobatus laticeps is a demersal species, meaning it primarily inhabits the bottom of the ocean floor. It is found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution encompasses a range of marine zones, including coastal waters, coral reefs, and sandy bottoms. This species is known to prefer shallow water depths, often found within the epipelagic zone, but can also be observed at depths up to 200 meters.
Taxonomy
Aetobatus laticeps is classified within the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes like sharks and rays. It belongs to the Order: Myliobatiformes, an order that includes a diverse array of rays, and is part of the Family: Aetobatidae, the family of eagle rays.
Feeding
Aetobatus laticeps is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on invertebrates, including crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. It uses its powerful jaws to crush its prey and its wide, flattened head to stir up sediments, exposing its food. This feeding behavior is typical of other eagle rays and contributes to the ecological balance within the marine ecosystems they inhabit.
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