Whiptail stingrays
Spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus ocellatus)
The Spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus ocellatus) belongs to the family Dasyatidae (whiptail stingrays) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in groups or alone. It reaches about 180 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Endangered. Treat it with caution (danger): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Aetobatus ocellatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Whiptail stingrays (Dasyatidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Aquila di mare ocellata |
| Common name (EN) | Spotted eagle ray |
| Maximum size | 180 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | EN — Endangered |
| Hazard | Danger |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Danger: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Diving safety
Danger. This ray carries a serrated tail spine. Injuries occur when it is stepped on or cornered on the bottom — shuffle your feet and give it room.
If it happens
- Leave the water and control bleeding with direct pressure.
- Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 °C) for 30–90 minutes.
- Watch for signs of shock; call for help if they appear.
After
- Seek medical care: the wound often retains spine fragments and infects easily. Tetanus cover if needed.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Spotted eagle ray belong to?
- The Spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus ocellatus) belongs to the family Dasyatidae (whiptail stingrays).
- Is the Spotted eagle ray dangerous?
- It needs caution: Danger. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Spotted eagle ray endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Spotted eagle ray get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 180 cm.
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