What Divers Should Know About
Eaglerays

When encountering eagle rays, divers are often struck by their graceful, powerful presence in the water. These cartilaginous fishes, belonging to the family Myliobatidae, are primarily inhabitants of the open ocean, preferring to cruise above the seabed rather than resting on it. Distinct from many other rays, they possess long, whip-like tails and beautifully defined, rhomboidal bodies that contribute to their hydrodynamic form.

Observing them, you'll note their efficient swimming as they traverse the water column. Eagle rays are active predators, using their flattened teeth to crush the shells of mollusks and crustaceans, which form the bulk of their diet. These impressive animals are ovoviviparous, giving birth to up to six live young at a time. Individual eagle rays can vary significantly in size, ranging from approximately 0.48 to 5.1 meters (1.6 to 16.7 feet) in length, with some species boasting an impressive wingspan up to 7 meters (23 feet).