Electric ray (Narcine brasiliensis)

The Electric Ray or Narcine brasiliensis has gray elongated spots with dark brown coloration in the dorsal region and a white belly. They measure on average 34cm (13") in width and 1 kg(2lbs), but can reach 54cm (21") in width, and total weight of 5kg (11lbs). These saltwater fish occur in tropical and temperate waters of the Western Atlantic. These animals are benthic and live in coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms.

Electric Rays will bury themselves in the substrate with only their eyes out waiting for unsuspecting prey to wander by.  They are nocturnal, carnivorous and viviparous.  As a defense they can release an electrical discharge from 14 to 37 volts, which is also used to communicate between individuals of the same species.  It is also used as a kind of radar much like the Hammerhead Shark to find prey in the murky waters.  You can check out an Electric Ray in the video below.

If you have any additional information about the Electric Ray please leave us a comment below.

Courtesy of Ellano J. Silva - Fisheries engineering student (UFERSA- Brazil)

Copper Rockfish (Sebastes caurinus)

The Copper Rockfish or Sebastes caurinus is a widespread saltwater fish that is found off the Pacific Coast of North America. The species of Rockfish from the Sebastidae family can grow up to 22 inches (56cm) in length and weigh just over 10lbs.  The female Copper Rockfish is normally a bit larger then the male. They are found in depths of up to 600', normally near the bottom in and around rocks. These fish can range in color from a dark reddish brown, with pale copper blotching along the sides, to a lighter pinkish brown with a yellowish white mottling on the flanks.

Copper Rockfish will feed on crustaceans and small fish, while falling prey to sea birds and larger fish including Lingcod and Salmon. They reach sexual maturity in their fourth year and are viviparous giving live birth after the fish develops inside the mother for a period of 10 months. Considered to be quite tasty, this fish is often sought after and is said to put up a good fight for its relatively small size.  You can check out the Copper Rockfish swimming in the Pacific Ocean in the video below.

If you have any additional information about the Cooper Rockfish please leave us a comment below.