The Atlantic devil ray, scientifically known as Mobula hypostoma, is a species of large ray belonging to the family Mobulidae. It is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in tropical and subtropical waters.
The Atlantic devil ray exhibits a distinctive flattened body, which is roughly diamond-shaped with a pointed snout and long, thin pectoral fins. It can grow up to a length of 20 feet (6 meters) and weigh around 3,500 pounds (1,600 kilograms), making it one of the largest species of rays in the world. The upper side of its body is deep blue to gray in color, while the underside is light gray or white.
One of the defining characteristics of the Atlantic devil ray is its long, whip-like tail, which lacks a venomous spine like some other types of rays. This species is known for its acrobatic behavior, often leaping out of the water and slapping its wings on the surface. It feeds primarily on small schooling fishes, such as anchovies, and occasionally on crustaceans and squid.
The Atlantic devil ray is considered to be a migratory species, as it undertakes long-distance movements in search of food and suitable breeding grounds. It is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs. However, its reproductive behavior and lifespan are still relatively unknown.
Although not specifically targeted by fisheries, the Atlantic devil ray is sometimes caught incidentally in commercial fishing operations, contributing to its population decline. Due to these threats and lack of comprehensive information, it is classified as data deficient on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
