Skerries bank and surrounds MCZ
1,371 views · Published 29 November 2012 · 2:27 · Indexed 28 September 2026
Channel: Devon WildlifeTrust · 2012 · Nonprofits & Activism
Separated by areas of clean, course sand, the low reefs that exist in the strong currents around Start Point are covered with red and brown seaweeds, sponges and bryozoans. Both the common and the spiny starfish can be found here, and many crabs and molluscs shelter amongst the algae. We filmed at a depth of about 18m where much of the red light is filtered from our cameras, so we were not able to fully capture the vivid colours of the seaweeds and sponges populating the reef. Small yellow-pointed sponges poke up through the sand as we approach the reef. A small shoal of sand eels can be seen to the right, and ahead, lying in the sandy gully between the reefs, is a large thornback ray (Raja clavata). It possesses sharp spines or bucklers on its back and further defensive armaments along its tail. Approaching the fish, though trying not to alarm it, we are able to see its patterned wings and its raised eyes especially adapted for lying on the seabed. The spiracle behind the eye can be seen opening and closing, and a puff of sand emerges from under the ray as it eats a small clam or crustacean found in the sediment. It is a real privilege to see such a beautiful animal in this unspoilt natural environment. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Befriend the Skerries bank and surrounds MCZ here: http://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/become-a-friend-of-mczs/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For further species information visit: http://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/species/
