Times of the Islands Summer 2022

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
Eagle rays are related to sharks and other ray species
within the class Chondrichthyes, the cartilaginous
fish. Living in the open water over the continental shelf,
these rays can be found from the surface to depths of 60
meters. Much of this area is popular for activities such as
boating, snorkeling, or diving, so a lucky observer may
view an eagle ray passing by the reef, or perhaps even
breaching the surface. When boating, keep an eye out
for moving dark patches. While snorkeling or diving, you
might be able to see groups of these rays up close as they
glide across your path.
Many of the sea creatures calling the Turks & Caicos
region home are facing a number of anthropogenic
threats. The habitats in which they reside are often
degraded by pollution, habitat loss, and high levels of
human disturbance. These activities can have dire consequences
for marine species, especially rays who have
only a few offspring at a time. The whitespotted eagle
ray has experienced vast reductions in population size
over the last 30 years (three generation lengths), estimated
at around 50–79%. Because of this, A. narinari has
been reclassified from Near Threatened to Endangered
by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature
(IUCN), with a population trend of “decreasing” as of July
28, 2020.
Whitespotted eagle rays are often caught in fisheries
both intentionally and as bycatch. Rays are also susceptible
to being entangled in active fishing nets, as well as
Eagle rays are often found in pairs or groups.
SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
60 www.timespub.tc