scientifically known as Mobula thurstoni, is a captivating species of ray belonging to the Mobulidae family. This family, closely related to sharks, includes both manta rays and devil rays. While the Bentfin Devil Ray is less known than its larger relatives, it still presents many interesting characteristics that make it a remarkable species.
The Bentfin Devil Ray is a relatively small member of the Mobulidae family. Adult individuals can reach sizes of up to 4.9 feet (1.5 meters) in wingspan, and their weight can range from 66 to 110 pounds (30 to 50 kilograms). This size makes them considerably smaller than their manta ray relatives, which can reach wingspans of up to 29.5 feet (9 meters) in the case of the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray.
The overall body shape of the Bentfin Devil Ray is characterized by a flattened, disc-like body with large, wing-like pectoral fins. The cephalic lobes or head fins found in manta rays are reduced in devil rays, appearing more like small, pointed flaps on either side of the mouth. The mouth is situated on the underside of the body, while the eyes are located on the sides of the head. The tail of the Bentfin Devil Ray is long and slender, lacking a stinging spine that is present in some other ray species.
In terms of body coloration, the Bentfin Devil Ray exhibits a relatively simple pattern compared to some other Mobulidae species. The dorsal (upper) side of the body is predominantly dark grey or black, while the ventral (lower) side is mostly white. There may be some variation in coloration and pattern between individuals, but this is generally subtle and less distinctive than in manta rays.
When it comes to social behavior, Bentfin Devil Rays are known to be relatively solitary animals, although they can occasionally be found swimming in small groups. They are pelagic species, often found in open ocean environments, and they have been known to perform acrobatic leaps out of the water, possibly as a form of communication or play.
The Bentfin Devil Ray's feeding habits consist of consuming small fish, crustaceans, and plankton. They filter their food through their gill rakers, using their pectoral fins and reduced cephalic lobes to guide the food into their mouths.
In conclusion, the Bentfin Devil Ray is an intriguing species within the Mobulidae family. Its relatively small size, unique body shape, and simple coloration patterns make it an interesting subject for marine biologists and enthusiasts alike. While their social behavior is less gregarious than that of their larger relatives, the occasional acrobatic displays and elusive nature of this species only add to its allure.