Fin's Fish Guide
The Common bull ray (Myliobatis aquila) is a brackish-water fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 183 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Ireland and the British Isles to South Africa; the entire Mediterranean Sea and western Indian Ocean.
Description
The common eagle ray is a large ray of the family Myliobatidae with a wingspan up to about 183 cm. The species has a short, rounded snout and large, wing-like pectoral fins with which it 'flies' gracefully through the water; the upper side is brown to blackish, the underside white. A true caudal fin is absent, but a venomous spine sits at the tail base. The eagle ray lives in shallow bays, lagoons and estuaries of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean to about 300 m and often forages in groups on the bottom, crushing shellfish and crustaceans with its flat plate-like teeth. Heavy fishing pressure has left it assessed as Critically Endangered.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common bull ray?
The Common bull ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eagle ray with a short, rounded snout and large, wing-shaped pectoral fins; carries a venomous spine at the base of the tail but lacks a caudal fin.
Where does the Common bull ray live?
The Common bull ray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Ireland and the British Isles to South Africa; the entire Mediterranean Sea and western Indian Ocean.
How big does the Common bull ray get?
The Common bull ray grows to a maximum of about 183 cm.
Is the Common bull ray dangerous to humans?
The Common bull ray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Not aggressive, but a venomous spine at the tail base can give a painful, venomous wound if the ray is grabbed or stepped on. Immerse the wound in hot water (~45 °C) for 30-90 minutes and seek medical help.
Is the Common bull ray edible?
The Common bull ray is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common bull ray and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myliobatis
More from the family Myliobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Common bull ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common bull ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.