The Spotted Eagle Ray, Aetobatus narinari, is a large, distinctive ray found in tropical and subtropical waters around the globe. Its striking appearance, characterized by a spotted pattern, makes it a fascinating sight for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Spotted Eagle Ray is easily recognizable by its broad, wing-like pectoral fins, which can span up to 230 cm in width. Its body is flattened, with a prominent, pointed snout and small, forward-facing eyes. The dorsal surface is covered in small, white spots that are typically more prominent in juveniles. This unique pattern gives the ray its common name.
The Spotted Eagle Ray is a powerful swimmer, using its large pectoral fins to propel itself through the water. Its tail is whip-like and bears a venomous spine, which is used for defense.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Spotted Eagle Ray is a widely distributed species, inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters around the world. It is typically found in shallow, coastal waters, including brackish water, seawater, and sea water. The Spotted Eagle Ray is a common inhabitant of the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans, ranging from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. Its presence in these marine zones makes it a significant part of the neritic ecosystem.
Taxonomy
The Spotted Eagle Ray, Aetobatus narinari, is classified within the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses cartilaginous fishes like sharks and rays. It belongs to the Order: Myliobatiformes, a group that includes eagle rays, stingrays, and manta rays. This species is part of the Family: Aetobatidae, which is specifically dedicated to eagle rays.
Feeding
The Spotted Eagle Ray is a carnivorous predator, feeding primarily on a variety of invertebrates, including clams, crabs, shrimps, snails, and worms. It also occasionally feeds on small fish and squid. The Spotted Eagle Ray uses its powerful jaws and sharp teeth to crush its prey, consuming a diet of clam meat, clams, crabs, fish (little fishes), schrimps, sepia, shrimps, snails, and worms.
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