How the devil ray got its horns

If you ever find yourself staring down a manta ray, you'll probably notice two things right away: the massive, flapping fins that produce the shark cousin's 20-foot wingspan and the two fleshy growths curling out of its head that give it the nickname "devil ray." A new San Francisco State University study shows that these two very different features have the same origin—a discovery that reflects an important lesson for understanding the diversity of life.

"Small tweaks in early development can contribute to larger differences in how animals' bodies are laid out," explained San Francisco State Professor of Biology Karen Crow.

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Credit: Photo taken by Jackie Reid, courtesy of the NOAA Image Library

A new study shows that the manta ray's distinctive hornlike cephalic lobes, rather than being separate appendages, have their origins as the foremost part of the animals' fins, modified for a new purpose.

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Manta's name is Terry per Karey Kumli of Pacific Manta Research Group. Manta curling up its horns while gliding thru underwater sunlight.

I love stingrays so much. Took the kids to the local sealife centre and they let you stroke/touch them. So friendly and sociable. Their little faces are sweet



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Thanks for sharing

Manta rays are related to stingrays. Both have flattened body shapes and wide pectoral fins that are fused to the head. One of the biggest differences between manta rays and stingrays is that manta rays do NOT have a tail "stinger" or barb like stingrays. There are other differences as well.

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The stingray symbolizes sensitivity, restraint, protection, and maneuverability. Stingrays have a heightened sense of touch and often show up around empaths or “feeling” psychics that pick up on the energy and emotions of others.

Stingrays blend into their surroundings on the ocean floor and are not aggressive unless provoked. When they feel threatened; they use a poisonous barb to defend themselves that can be lethal.

Stingrays go to great lengths to camouflage and avoid conflict, but will defend themselves when necessary.

Keep faith in your abilities and follow your inner guidance.

What a profound experience, touching, feeling vibes of a deep-sea animal, where they came from, is where they are going.

It was great, well worth the £ fees to get in. and nice memories for them. Especially D, he loved it. They kept coming back up to the surface for more. Loved the attention from everyone

Thanks for sharing the stingray totem meaning, that's great. Would make sense to be drawn to these then