California Butterfly Ray

Gymnura marmorata

California Butterfly Ray

A broad, kite shaped ray that glides over warm shallow bays and beaches, hunting crustaceans and small fishes. It carries a small venom apparatus that serves mainly for defence, gives birth to live young, and can reach about a metre and a half across. It is listed as Near Threatened.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Myliobatiformes › Gymnuridae › Gymnura

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 271479.

FAQ

How deep does the California Butterfly Ray live?
The California Butterfly Ray (Gymnura marmorata) is typically found at 1–94 m.
Is the California Butterfly Ray dangerous to divers?
The California Butterfly Ray can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
How big does the California Butterfly Ray get?
The California Butterfly Ray grows to about 1 m.