Written by Goncalo Vedor, Sea Trust Intern
Meet the ray who can make you tingle without ever touching a plug: the Atlantic Torpedo Ray (Torpedo nobiliana). This beautiful ray can be found throughout the Atlantic Ocean, and as the ocean’s waters warm up due to climate change, these interesting organisms may be found in Welsh waters in the future; however, they are relatively easy to miss unless you know what you’re looking for.
Spotting the Atlantic Torpedo Ray in the wild is an exhilarating challenge, a thrilling experience that nature enthusiasts will surely enjoy. Keep an eye out for its unique dark brown colour and disc-like body shape, a distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other rays. To confirm its identity, watch for its thick, fleshy tail, adorned with two dorsal fins.
Moreover, adults of this species can grow to 1.8 metres in length and weigh up to 90 kilograms; they are larger than most rays found near shore, being almost the same size as some dining room tables, adding to the thrill of the search. When juveniles can reach around 17-25 centimetres, which is the size of a water bottle.
This ray is truly extraordinary, being one of the few species out of 679 that can conduct electricity from within their bodies. This unique ability is achieved by having two large electric organs, which contain thousands of specialised cells called electrocytes. These two organs are located on either side of the head within the front disc. This feature sets the Atlantic Torpedo Ray apart from other marine species, making it a fascinating subject of study and observation.
The way these organs work is by having a tiny charge in each of the electrocytes, like a small battery. When the ray decides to zap, its nerves trigger all the cells to act simultaneously, which then causes the voltage to accumulate, creating a pulse of electricity that can be used to snatch prey or deter a pushy predator.
Atlantic Torpedo Rays, as mentioned earlier, are widespread in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in soft-bottom areas such as sandy bays, muddy patches, and seagrass beds. During the day, they can often be found half-buried in sand, while at dusk and nighttime, they can be seen ambushing prey.
A fascinating fact about its name is that the word “torpedo” originates from the Latin word “torpere,” meaning to be numb. This is due to the Greeks and Romans of ancient times using this type of species to alleviate pain, such as headaches, which demonstrated an ancient form of electrotherapy. This historical tidbit adds a layer of intrigue to our understanding of the Atlantic Torpedo Ray. However, if you encounter this organism in the wild, do not attempt to touch it, as it may pose health risks to you and cause the ray to become stressed. Additionally, you may injure the animal during the process.
Although the Atlantic Torpedo Ray is not a rare fish, their habitat can be easily disturbed by activities such as bottom trawling. We all must play our part in protecting this beautiful species. You can help by not touching the Atlantic Torpedo Ray, reporting any sightings of it, and, if you have a boat, avoiding anchoring in seagrass where they can be found. These simple actions can make a significant difference in the conservation of this unique marine species. If you want to influence the future of this fish’s habitat, visit the petition below banning bottom trawling in marine protected areas.
In conclusion, the Atlantic torpedo ray is mainly found in the Atlantic Ocean and is extremely rare in Welsh waters. However, as our seas continue to warm, the likelihood of occasional sightings is increasing, reminding us that remarkable creatures may still appear along our shores. So, the next time you go looking for them, search for a ray with a disc-shaped body and a thick, fleshy tail. Just remember to observe them from a safe distance for your own protection and the safety of the animal.