Sharklife interns were lucky to come across this beautiful ray followed by many cobia fish (Rachycentron canadum) The smalleye stingray (Megatrygon microps) is the largest marine stingray in the world, reaching up to 2.2 meters in disc width. This rare species, studied by Sharklife, often swims with an entourage of smaller fish and rays. Despite its unique traits, it remains poorly understood due to its elusive nature and patchy distribution across the Indian Ocean and western Pacific.
Recent research has focused on the smalleye stingray’s physical characteristics and migration. Using photo-ID techniques, the Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF) documented sightings in Mozambique, identifying around 70 individuals. Notably, a pregnant female traveled over 400 km round-trip from Tofo to the Bazaruto Archipelago and back, showing strong site fidelity.
The smalleye stingray is semi-pelagic and rarely rests on the seabed. It is frequently seen at cleaning stations where smaller fish remove parasites from its skin.
However, bycatch and habitat threats put the species at risk. With its “Data Deficient” status on the IUCN Red List, further research is essential to understand its ecology and inform conservation efforts.
These studies are a critical step in protecting this giant yet vulnerable species within the Indian Ocean ecosystem.
If you would like to learn more about shark ecology and behavior, check out our Internship page for more information!