Found in reef areas and sandy bottoms.  The spotted eagle ray has a poisonous spine on its tail and incredibly powerful jaws to crush oysters, clams, and numerous crustaceans.  Divers report large schools during breeding season.<P> This ray is an active swimmer and often leaps into the air.  The slapping sound it makes on the water is thought to mark a territory.<P> Edibility is poor.<P> Range is throughout the tropics.