EAD Has Discovered a New Eagle Ray Species in Abu Dhabi Waters
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced yesterday 27 April 2022 its discovery of a new Eagle Ray species in Abu Dhabi waters that will be added ti the global list. The new species (Aetomylaeus wafickii) was discovered from specimens collected in the Arabian Gulf during the Fisheries Resource Assessment (FRAS) which was carried out in 2016.
Ahmed Al Hashmi, Executive Director of Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Division at EAD said:
“It is very exciting for us to discover a new species of Eagle Ray in Abu Dhabi. This is a prominent indication that our waters are healthy and that we have an abundance of marine biodiversity.
“Within the past two years, we have discovered a series of species, and I am confident that we can make even more discoveries in the future, as long as we continue adopting accurate scientific methodologies to ensure credibility.
“To ensure longevity and sustainability of our species, at EAD we engage in extensive rehabilitation programmes so that our species can thrive for future generations and enjoy the breadth and beauty of Abu Dhabi’s biodiversity.”
About Eagle Ray
- Eagle Rays are demersal and semi-pelagic rays
- It has a circumglobal distribution where most species can be found near coastlines.
- Eagle Rays body size ranges from medium to large (60 to over 200 cm disc width)
- It has a wing-like shaped frame.
- Eagle Rays use their robust jaws and plate like teeth to feed on mollusks and crustaceans, as well as worms and small bones fish.
Cover Photo Copyright: Abu Dhabi Media office Official Website.
This article was previously published on UAE Moments.To see the original article, click here