Sicklefin devil ray
📖 Overview
Mostly oceanic, but also in coastal waters. Solitary, sometimes forms groups . Feeds on small fishes and planktonic crustaceans . Ovoviviparous . Litter number 1 . Sometimes found stranded in beaches in temperate areas . Data on female max. length from Ref. 9256. Commonly caught in tuna gillnet and in harpoon fisheries. Utilized for its gill filter plates (very high value), meat, cartilage and skin .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
A large devil ray with a long head bearing short head fins; dorsal fin plain, and pectoral fins with strongly curved, swept-back tips; upper disc densely covered with small, pointed denticles and tail shorter than disc with no spine . Dark blue , olive-green to brownish above; ventral side white anteriorly, grey posteriorly, with an irregular but distinct line of demarcation . No caudal fin .: other.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Sicklefin devil ray is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Sicklefin devil ray is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Exhibit ovoviparity (aplacental viviparity), with embryos feeding initially on yolk, then receiving additional nourishment from the mother by indirect absorption of uterine fluid enriched with mucus, fat or protein through specialised structures .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; oceanodromous ; depth range 0 - 1896 m , usually 0 - 20 m . Tropical; 50°N - 37°S, 180°W - 180°E South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
small fishes (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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