Fish
Small-eyed Ray
Raja microocellata
In the shallow, sandy water of the Bristol Channel, a small-eyed ray lies in the sediment, its pale-spotted back all but invisible on the bed.
Overview
The small-eyed ray, Raja microocellata, is a Near Threatened ray of shallow sandy seabeds, estuaries, and bays in the north-eastern Atlantic. Its small eyes, pale spots, and limited range make it a ray of special concern around Britain.
A ray of shallow water
Unlike many rays that live in deeper water, the small-eyed ray is often found close to shore, where it is exposed to nets and coastal pressures.
Status
Near Threatened, with a limited range.
Small-eyed Ray: common questions
Why is it called the small-eyed ray?
It has smaller eyes than other similar rays, which gives it its common name.
Where does the small-eyed ray live?
It lives mostly in shallow water over sandy bottoms, often close inshore and in estuaries and bays.
Why is it Near Threatened?
It has a limited range and has been reduced by fishing, though it remains locally common in a few areas.
Where is the small-eyed ray found?
It lives on shallow sandy seabeds of the north-eastern Atlantic, from the British Isles and the English Channel to Portugal.