23 October 2020

Oman Cownose Ray – Farasan Islands

Whilst crossing from Greater Farasan Island to Segid Island we saw a shoal of over fifty Oman Cownose Ray Rhinoptera jayakari. This species occurs from South Africa to the Philippines; north to Ryukyu Is. and south to eastern Indonesia. However, it may comprise of two closely related species based on genetic findings where the forms possibly differ in the shape of the head and tail and robustness of the bodies. It has a maximum length of 90 cm and often aggregates in large shoals. Exhibit ovoviparity with embryos feeding initially on yolk, then receiving additional nourishment from the mother by indirect absorption of uterine fluid enriched with mucus, fat or protein through specialised structures.
Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray

Oman Cownose Ray