The Australian Butterfly Ray (Gymnura australis) is not a species most recreational fishers expect to see, which made my recent encounter in Moreton Bay particularly notable. With its extremely broad, flattened body and short tail, this ray is instantly recognisable, yet rarely observed in local fishing reports.
This butterfly ray is rarely caught on hook and line. I have only ever seen them caught on trawlers. It preys primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small fishes, often remaining partially buried and out of sight.
Biodiversity Beneath the Surface
Sightings like this are a reminder that even heavily fished systems such as Moreton Bay still support a wide range of less visible species. For fishermen who spend a lot of time on the water, these unexpected encounters provide valuable insight into the bay’s biodiversity.
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- In the North Lakes Loop: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review: Wrong Turns
- Movie Review: The Deb
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- Organic Gardening in April
- Ancient Egypt Comes Alive In Virtual Reality Experience
- Act 1 Theatre Presents Trio of One-Act Plays
- Anzac Day – Lest We Forget
- Life-Saving Classes For Your Beloved Pooch
- Genesis Students Bring High School Musical Back to the Stage
- No Graves but the Sea
- Hypnosis Show Promises Laughter and Amazement
- A Community On Two Wheels
- Get Hooked With Moreton Youth Week Fishing Competition
- Top Spots for Kids to Play These School Holidays
- Moreton Bay PrideFest Returns to Pine Rivers Park
- Celebrate Queensland Youth Week
- Sultana Lemon Delicious
- Sarah Bailey Clicks With Crime Fiction Fans
- School Holiday Fun
- Self-expression Through Street Art
