Oceanogràfic in Valencia recorded the first birth in its facilities Rhinoceros marginalataa bar also known as “Cow-face ray” and is listed as critically endangered By the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The calf, a female weighing 1,450 grams and with a disc length of 47 centimetres, was born last week without complications and is stable under the supervision of the Department of Oceans.
Tape Marginata It is characterized by the presence of one calf per birth and a gestation period of approximately one year, which explains the remarkable size of the newborn sample. This species lives in temperate waters in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the Valencia Center reported on Wednesday in a statement.
Their presence in the wild has declined “drastically” due to various factors such as poaching, bycatch, habitat degradation and loss of coastal areas essential for their development. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed it as “Critically Endangered”. “Highest threat” level before extinction In the wild.
The little girl has already started eating regularly with a diet consisting of Shrimp, bivalves, blue fish and crustaceans Like a crab, which is a positive indicator of his adaptation and well-being. During these weeks it will remain under observation to ensure its adaptation and development until it can be transferred to the ocean facility with the rest of the sharks and rays.
According to the aquarium, in recent years, centers such as Oceanogràfic and its Foundation have proven themselves as essential allies in the protection of marine species through breeding programmes, genetic studies, recovery actions, dissemination and the formation of international scientific networks. Thanks to these initiatives, the Oceanogràfic Area (CACSA – GVA) currently includes dozens of species classified as threatened or at risk of extinction, and are integrated into various research and conservation programmes.
They are waiting for the birth of the second calf
“Each birth represents a unique opportunity to advance our knowledge of a species and enhance efforts to ensure its long-term survival,” explained Marja Ardau, head of the Department of Oceanography at Oceans. “The young stingrays have begun feeding in recent days, which is an indicator of positive development,” added Ardau, who confirmed that the young stingrays have begun to feed in recent days. The team is awaiting the birth of the second sample In the next few days.
For Oceanogràfic, this birth also has an educational element. Through the publication, “the Foundation seeks to raise the level of awareness among its visitors about the fragility of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on them and their inhabitants.”
About The Author
