Spotted Eagle Ray   RAY
 
Advertisement
 
Scientific Name:
Aetobatus narinari
Other Names and/or Listed subspecies:
Maylan, Bonnetray
Group:
Fishes
Status/Date Listed as Endangered:
NT-IUCN: 2006
Area(s) Where Listed As Endangered:
Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America, Middle East, North America (including United States and US Island Territory and Hawaii), Oceans, South America

The Spotted Eagle Ray (Aetobatus narinari) is a large species of ray that is easily recognizable by its unique spotted pattern. It has a flattened diamond-shaped body with a long snout, and can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. Its upper body is typically a dark blue or black color, while its underside is white. Its wings are covered in white spots, which give it its distinctive appearance.

The Spotted Eagle Ray can be found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. It prefers shallow, sandy areas near coral reefs or rocky formations. It reproduces via internal fertilization, with the male using modified pelvic fins called claspers to transfer sperm to the female.

Despite being a relatively common species, the Spotted Eagle Ray is facing numerous threats that have led to its decline. These include habitat destruction, overfishing, and accidental entanglement in fishing nets. To help protect the species, various conservation measures have been put in place, such as fishing restrictions and the establishment of marine protected areas. Additionally, research is ongoing to better understand the species' biology and behavior, which can help inform conservation efforts.




Wikipedia Article

This article is only an excerpt. If it appears incomplete or if you wish to see article references, visit the rest of its contents here.
Wikipedia Article
Copyright Notice: This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Spotted eagle ray".

Featured Article

Rare Black Panther Seen Alive in Kenya
Biologists have recently documented rare footage of a black panther stalking the forests of Kenya. The team of biologists shot the footage of the sleek big cat after spending months watching and waiting, according to a conservation scientist from the San Diego Zoo.

Read More...


Advertisement


Endangered Species of Our Planet

Donate, Adopt, Get Involved

EEC Conservation Directory
Donate

Mailing List

Would you like to receive a notice and link when the new Creature Feature is posted?

Enter your e-mail address below:

 

Fun & Games

Are you inspired by endangered animals? Check out our games and coloring pages! More to come soon.
color endangered creatures
play hangman