Eagle Rays: Spotted Eagle Ray

SPOTTED EAGLE RAY
Aetobatus narinari

 

Identification
Broad angular disc, twice as wide as long, strongly concave posterior with angular tips. Dark brown to black with series of lighter spots/circles on the dorsal surface, whitish below. Large fleshy subrostral lobe. Dorsal fin near base of whip-like tail followed posterior by a venomous spine(s).

Habitat and Behavior
A pelagic species commonly found in shallow inshore waters such as bays, estuaries, and coral reefs but may cross oceanic basins to depths of around 200 feet. Often seen swimming near the water surface, occasionally leaping completely out of the water. Frequently forming large schools during the non-breeding season.

Feeding
Feeds mainly on bivalves but also eats shrimp, crabs, octopus, worms, whelks, and small fishes.

Reproduction
Aplacental viviparity. Up to four pups per litter.

Size
Wingspan up to 10 feet and up to 500 pounds. Maximum total length (tip of snout to tip end of tail) of 17 feet.

Human Factors
Protected in Florida state waters. Non-aggressive species of little danger to humans except for their defensive venomous barb located near the base of the tail. Avoid handling or exercise extreme caution.