In the vast ocean world, rays and manta rays are two very mysterious creatures. They are both large fish in the ocean, but they differ significantly in many ways. This article will detail the differences between these two types of fish to help readers better understand these two exotic sea creatures.
1. Morphological characteristics
1.Rays: Rays are flattened fish that usually have broad pectoral and caudal fins. They have a unique body morphology and usually appear bright orange or gold. Their head has a hard snout that can be used to hit the ocean floor or hunt prey.
2.Manta ray: Manta rays are large fish species that usually appear dark blue or black. Their body shape is similar to that of rays, but they are more elongated. Manta rays also have a sharp snout on their heads, but their bodies are smoother and do not have spines like those of rays.
2. Life Xi
1.Rays: Rays typically live in shallow or deep sea areas and feed on benthic animals, crustaceans, and small fish. They usually live alone or in pairs and have a certain sense of territory.
2.Manta rays: Manta rays mainly live in tropical and **zone waters, and feed on plankton and small fish. They usually live in groups and are highly social.
3. Mode of reproduction
1.Rays: Rays usually reproduce ovoviviparous, i.e. the mother produces eggs in her body and hatches into small fish. This mode of reproduction allows rays to protect their offspring from predators.
2.Manta rays: Manta rays reproduce differently from rays in that they usually reproduce their offspring by spawning and fertilizing. The mother fish lays a large number of eggs that will float in the water for a while before hatching into small fish.
Fourth, the defense mechanism
1.Rays: The ray's defense mechanism relies primarily on its hard snout and spines. When threatened, they will ram enemies with their snouts or defend with their thorns. In addition, some rays also release toxins to protect themselves.
2.Manta rays: Manta rays have relatively weak defense mechanisms, and they usually avoid predator attacks by swimming quickly and hiding. When threatened, they release a special liquid to confuse enemies or protect themselves. This liquid is called "devil's tears" and has a unique color and smell that can make it impossible for enemies to determine their location.
5. Edible value
1.Rays: In some regions, rays are seen as a delicacy. Their meat is tender, tasty, and rich in protein and other nutrients. As a result, some fishermen catch rays and give them to markets or restaurants.
2.Manta rays: Although manta rays also have relatively good meat quality, they are not as popular as rays due to their special taste and spiny-like structure. In some areas, manta rays are considered an undesirable invasive species that poses a certain threat to local ecosystems.
In short, although rays and manta rays are both large marine fish, there are obvious differences in morphological characteristics, living Xi, reproductive methods, defense mechanisms and food value. By understanding these differences, we can better understand these two mysterious marine creatures and protect their ecosystems and populations.