California butterfly ray Profile

The California butterfly ray (Gymnura marmorata) features a distinctive mottled brown and grey coloration, resembling the pattern of marble, which helps in camouflage. Originating from the Eastern Pacific, particularly from Oregon, USA to the Gulf of California and Mexico, this species has a broad, flat body and long, trailing tail, giving it a distinct appearance similar to a butterfly in shape. Despite its unique look, the California butterfly ray is not commonly known in the aquarium hobby, largely due to its size and specialized care requirements, making it rare in captive environments.