Where is eagle ray found?
As traditionally defined, spotted eagle rays are found globally in tropical regions from the Indo-Pacific region from the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the western Atlantic Ocean. They are found in shallow coastal water by coral reefs and bays, in depths down to 80 meters (262 ft).
What eats eagle rays?
Sharks are the principal predators of spotted eagle rays. Specifically, tiger sharks, lemon sharks, bull sharks, silvertip sharks, and great hammerhead sharks prey upon pups and adults.
Where does a spotted eagle ray live in the ocean?
Just like the name implies, the spotted eagle ray is covered in spots and other markings. It is unmistakable with any other species throughout its range. Spotted eagle rays live along the open coast in warm waters throughout the world, though they are often associated with coral reefs and sometimes enter protected bays to feed or mate.
What do you call a white spotted eagle?
The spotted eagle ray is also called the ” White-spotted eagle eay “, the ” bonnet skate “, the ” Bonnet ray “, the ” Duck-billed ray “, and the ” Spotted Duck-billed ray “.
How does a spotted eagle ray give birth?
It is possible, however, that further genetic study will reveal that spotted eagle rays in different ocean basins (e.g., Atlantic vs. Pacific oceans) are actually different species. Spotted eagle rays reproduce via internal fertilization and give live birth.
What is the size of a spotted eagle ray?
Spotted Eagle Rays are around 17 to 35 cm wide at birth, but adults can be as long as 16 ft (5 meters), and have the wingspan of 3 meters (10 ft).
Why is the spotted eagle ray endangered?
Eagle Rays are difficult to approach in the water as they tend to swim rapidly away from divers and swimmers. Eagle Rays are not dangerous to humans unless they are caught and handled incorrectly. Spotted Eagle Rays appear on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as ‘Near Threatened’ due to fishing throughout the world 1.
Why are spotted eagle rays endangered?
This low reproductive potential , along with their natural rarity, contributes to experts considering spotted eagle rays as ‘near threatened’ with extinction. This species is not directly targeted by commercial fisheries, but it is captured as accidental bycatch in fisheries targeting other species.
What are the Predators of the spotted eagle rays?
Spotted Eagle Ray Facts Description. The ray is easily recognized by its blue or black top dotted with white spots, white belly, and flat “duck bill” snout. Distribution. Diet. Predators and Parasites. Reproduction and Life Cycle. Spotted Eagle Rays and Humans. Conservation Status. Sources.
What are facts about spotted eagle rays?
Spotted eagle rays grow to a maximum length of 16.4 feet (5 m), including the tail, and 507 pounds (230 kg). Spotted eagle rays can be found from the surface to just over 196 feet (60 m) deep. Spotted eagle rays can leap their entire bodies out of the water while swimming close to the surface.