Butterfly ray – Gymnura micrura.
Identifying Characteristics and Biology
Smooth, broad, diamond shape with a short tail. Color can range from gray to brown to bronze, in smooth or mottled colors. Ventral side is white or light in color. Tail is void of a stinger.
Range and Habitat
Western and eastern Atlantic to Gulf of Mexico in sandy or muddy bottoms.
Market Forms
While smooth butterfly rays are caught commercially around the world, they are catch and release recreationally.