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What is a Devil Ray?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

A devil ray is a type of ray — a fish designated by its flat, diamond shape — that has a pair of fins at the front of its body which appear similar to horns, giving these fish their name. Several different species of rays can be called devil rays, and most belong to the genus Mobula within the family Myliobatidae, or eagle rays. These different types of rays include the Mobula hypostoma, also called the Atlantic devil ray or lesser devil ray, and the Mobula mobular, often called the devil fish or giant devil ray. These devil rays are usually found throughout the Atlantic Ocean, though some sightings in the Pacific have been reported as well.

Devil rays are all typically identifiable by their shape and how they move through the water. From overhead they tend to appear fairly diamond-shaped, with fins that appear similar to wings extending out to each side. They also have a long, thin tail, which in some species can contain a sharp spine used for protection. Devil rays are specifically recognizable due to a pair of cephalic fins found at the front of the fish which typically point forward and from above can seem like horns. Myliobatidae, or eagle rays, are identified by the graceful way in which they swim, resembling the soaring of a bird through the air.

Frog
Frog

Of the various species of devil ray, the Mobula hypostoma are among the most commonly observed. Though little is generally known about many devil rays, and Atlantic devil rays are no exception, they have been studied to some degree. They have been found traveling alone, in small groups, and even in larger groups and appear black, dark gray, and bluish in color. Atlantic devil rays are typically found along the eastern coast of North and South America and the Gulf of Mexico. They seem to feed primarily on small crustaceans such as shrimp and on schools of smaller fish as well.

Atlantic devil rays have been observed leaping out of the water as they swim, sometimes breaching several feet above the water and covering a significant distance before submerging. The devil fish or giant devil ray is the second largest type of ray, second only to the manta ray or Manta birostis, sometimes also called a devil ray. Giant devil rays have been found as large as 17 feet (just over five meters), though mantas can grow as large as almost 30 feet (a little over nine meters). While the Atlantic devil ray does not have a sharp spine in its tail, giant devil rays do have such a spine and will use it in self defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Devil Ray?

A Devil Ray, also known as a Mobula ray, is a type of ray in the family Mobulidae. They are known for their distinctive horn-shaped cephalic fins, which when unfurled, resemble devil horns. These oceanic creatures are filter feeders and perform spectacular aerial jumps, making them a fascinating subject for marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.

How large can Devil Rays grow?

Devil Rays can reach impressive sizes, with some species like the Giant Devil Ray (Mobula mobular) growing up to 17 feet (5.2 meters) in width. Their size varies among species, but they are generally large, with a significant wingspan that aids in their graceful swimming and occasional breaching behavior.

What do Devil Rays eat?

Devil Rays are filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton, small fish, and crustaceans. They use their cephalic fins to channel food into their mouths while swimming. This feeding strategy allows them to consume large amounts of tiny prey as they glide through the water.

Are Devil Rays endangered?

Many species of Devil Rays are considered vulnerable or endangered due to overfishing, bycatch, and habitat loss. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), threats like targeted fisheries for their gill plates, used in traditional medicine, have put significant pressure on their populations worldwide.

How do Devil Rays reproduce?

Devil Rays have a unique reproductive process called ovoviviparity, where the female retains the eggs inside her body until they hatch. The young are then born live, fully formed. This method of reproduction results in a low reproductive rate, as females typically give birth to only one pup every two to three years.

Can Devil Rays be found in captivity?

It is extremely rare to find Devil Rays in captivity due to their large size, migratory nature, and complex habitat requirements. They are highly adapted to life in the open ocean, and maintaining such species in aquariums poses significant challenges. Consequently, Devil Rays are best observed in their natural environment.

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