Species · GBIF taxon 2419210
Atlantic Devil Ray
Mobula hypostomaAlso known as Lesser Devil Ray, Atlantic Mobula, Small Devil Ray
Atlantic devil rays are elegant, small elasmobranchs known for their acrobatic leaps out of the water, often schooling in warm coastal waters. They use their specialized cephalic fins to scoop plankton into their wide mouths while swimming in synchronized, sweeping motions. These highly migratory rays navigate the western Atlantic Ocean, moving in response to seasonal temperature shifts and food availability.
MarineMigratoryPlanktivore
- diet
- Zooplankton, small fishes, and shrimp
- family
- Myliobatidae
- threats
- Bycatch in commercial fisheries, habitat degradation, and climate change
- life Span
- 15 to 20 years
EN
Harmless to humans; observe these gentle filter feeders from a respectful distance.
Listed as Endangered due to high vulnerability to gillnets and trawling bycatch, combined with a very low reproductive rate.
Report any accidental entanglements to local marine authorities immediately and never target them for capture.- Maintain distance: Avoid swimming directly over or under the rays to prevent disrupting their schooling patterns.
- Watch for leaps: Look for their spectacular aerial breaches, which often signal social or feeding activity.
- Avoid touching: Never attempt to touch or ride these rays, as it damages their protective mucus layer.