description Smoothtail Mobula Overview
The smoothtail mobula (Mobula mobular), also known as the giant devil ray, is a pelagic ray species found in the Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic Ocean. It can reach a disc width of up to 3.5 meters and, unlike many of its relatives, lacks a tail spine. The species is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to population pressures from fishing and bycatch.
insights Ranking position
Smoothtail Mobula ranks #52 of 238 in the Ray ranking, behind Striped Guitarfish, ahead of Ocellate River Ray.
help Smoothtail Mobula FAQ
Where does the Smoothtail Mobula live?
The smoothtail mobula, also known as the giant devil ray, is a pelagic ray species found primarily in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It prefers open ocean environments rather than shallow coastal waters.
How large can a Smoothtail Mobula grow?
This massive ray species can reach a disc width of up to 3.5 meters, making it one of the largest rays in its habitat. Despite their enormous size, they are gentle filter feeders that pose no threat to humans.
Does the Smoothtail Mobula have a stinging spine?
Unlike many of its relatives in the stingray family, the smoothtail mobula completely lacks a venomous tail spine. Its tail is entirely smooth, which is the origin of its common name.
What is the conservation status of the giant devil ray?
The species, Mobula mobular, is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Their populations are threatened by bycatch in fishing nets, particularly in the Mediterranean Sea where they frequently get accidentally caught.
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