254 Sawfish, Skates, and Rays 



themselves partially or completely in the mud or sand. 

 The species that commonly act in such fashion have large 

 openings {spiracles) behind the eyes. In breathing, water 

 passes into the spiracles over the gills and out of the gill 

 slits. Little or no water is taken into the mouth as is 

 characteristic of species with small spiracles. Some excep- 

 tional species such as the Eagle and Cow-nosed Rays and 

 the Devil Rays are active animals and are frequently seen 

 vigorously swimming near the surface of the water or 

 leaping clear of the water. Shellfish, crabs, worms, small 

 shrimp-like animals comprise the bulk of the food of the 

 sawfish, skates, and rays. 



The Torpedo Ray has two electric organs, one on each 

 side of the front third of the body. These may possibly be 

 used for defense or for stunning their prey. Among the 

 Sting Rays, the long, whip-like tail is armed with one or 

 more poisonous spines. Spines are also present on the 

 tails of some of the Butterfly Rays, the Cow-nosed Ray 

 and the Eagle Rays. The spine may be as long as 5 inches 

 in some species. Sting Rays can be dangerous when acci- 

 dentally disturbed by the swimmer or when captured. The 

 long tail can be lashed vigorously and a severe wound in- 

 flicted by the poisonous spines. 



Economic Importance: The pectoral fins (wings or saddles) 

 of some of the larger species are marketed for food. Many 

 species are used for bait in crab and lobster traps, and 

 more recently as a source of fish meal. The spines of the 

 Sting Rays have been used by primitive tribes for needles 

 and spear tips. 



Fig. 1. Egg cases of Skates 



