Spine-tailed Devil Ray - Whai Rahi

The Spinetail devil ray, or spinetail mobula, is named for its horn-like cephalic fins and spiny tail. As a filter-feeder, it uses its flared fins to consume zooplankton while swimming. These rays are highly mobile and form global groups, their movements linked to seasonal upwelling and zooplankton migration. With a dark dorsal surface and light belly for camouflage, the spinetail devil ray faces threats from fishing and its prized gill plates used in traditional medicine. Conservation efforts are focusing on their protection.