Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted ray (Raja montagui) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 102 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
Description
The spotted ray is a flat cartilaginous fish of the family Rajidae reaching a wingspan of about 80 cm. The diamond-shaped body, formed by the pectoral fins fused to the head, is light brown with numerous fine dark spots that, unlike the thornback ray, do not extend to the edge of the wings; often each pectoral fin bears a large eyespot. The species lives on sand and gravel bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean, from shallow water to several hundred metres. On the bottom it hunts crabs, shrimps and small fish. It lays eggs in horny capsules. Its stock is fairly stable, so the species is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted ray?
The Spotted ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Diamond-shaped ray with numerous dark spots that do not reach the wing margin, often with a large eyespot on each pectoral fin.
Where does the Spotted ray live?
The Spotted ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Spotted ray get?
The Spotted ray grows to a maximum of about 102 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Spotted ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted ray is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted ray edible?
Yes, the Spotted ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Spotted 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 Raja
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.