How to spot the Spotted eagle ray when scuba diving
Aetobatus narinari
Found worldwide in tropical and warm temperate waters (Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans). Absent from the Mediterranean. Includes US coast (Carolinas south), Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Brazil, West Africa, Red Sea, Indo-Pacific (South Africa to Hawaii, Japan to Australia), Eastern Pacific (Gulf of California to Peru, Galapagos).
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Can be seen year-round in many tropical locations. Some areas report seasonal aggregations, like Cozumel, Mexico (winter months, Dec-March considered peak season). Often seen during daytime dives.
Tropical and warm temperate waters.
Commonly seen cruising over coral reefs, sandy flats near reefs, and in bays. They often swim near the surface but can be found down to ~60m. Sometimes seen solitary, sometimes in schools. Approach calmly as they can be shy.
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Worldwide observation of the Spotted eagle ray
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Data sources
- Photos: Wikimedia Commons
- Distribution and specie data: GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
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