Ocellated Eagle Ray

Aetobatus ocellatus

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-West Pacific

Diet : Clams, crustaceans, octopus, fish 

Size: 3 m width, 8 m length

Lifespan: 25 years

Description

The Ocellated Eagle Ray is a type of eagle ray characterized by its slightly pointed snout, resembling a bird's beak or a shovel. Its upper body is dark greenish-grey to black with white spots, while its underside is white. 

Behavior

They are able to leap completely out of the water, foraging by digging in the sand with their snouts, and using specialized, crushing dental plates to eat hard-shelled prey. 

Reproduction

The Ocellated eagle ray exhibits ovoviviparity with embryos feeding on yolk initially, then receiving additional nutrients from the mother through indirect absorption of enriched uterine fluid. The gestation period lasts over 12 months and only produces a few pups. 

Communication & Perception

Eagle rays communicate primarily through physical actions, most notably by breaching out of the water, which may signal to other rays, assist in removing parasites, or serve as a mating display. 

Predator(s)

Hammerhead sharks, Tiger Sharks, Bull Sharks, Lemon Sharks, and Silvertip Sharks