None commonly used
The small-eyed ray is a medium to large ray with a broad, diamond-shaped body and distinctive small eyes, from which it takes its name. Its upper surface is sandy brown with darker markings that provide excellent camouflage against the seabed, while the underside is pale. The wings produce firm, white flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavour.
Small-eyed rays are found on sandy and mixed seabeds throughout the northeast Atlantic, including around the coasts of the UK, Ireland, and western Europe. They are particularly common in the western English Channel and Celtic Sea, making southwest England one of the UK’s most important fishing areas for the species. They are typically landed as part of well-managed mixed fisheries.
Sustainability Rating
Status: Small-eyed ray populations in southwest waters are considered relatively healthy, although continued monitoring is important due to the species' slow growth and low reproductive rate.
Best Choice: Small-eyed ray landed as part of well-managed fisheries with accurate species identification, effective catch monitoring, and responsible stock.
Avoid: Ray caught from poorly managed fisheries or where species are not accurately recorded, making sustainable stock management more difficult.
Culinary Uses
The wings are the most commonly prepared part of the fish, offering firm, boneless flesh with a delicate flavour.
Ideal for pan-frying, grilling, or poaching.
Traditionally served with butter, capers, and lemon.
Its meaty texture also makes it suitable for modern seafood dishes.
Best Fishing Practices
Careful species identification and accurate reporting are essential to ensure sustainable management of ray populations.
Fisheries targeting ray species operate under regulations designed to protect vulnerable populations while allowing healthy stocks to be responsibly harvested.
Ongoing scientific monitoring and accurate species identification help maintain sustainable stock levels for the future.
Seasonality
Available throughout the year, with landings varying according to fishing activity and weather conditions.
Supporting Local, Sustainable Seafood
Choosing responsibly sourced small-eyed ray supports fisheries committed to sustainable fishing practices and accurate species management. By selecting fish from well-managed stocks, consumers help protect healthy ray populations while encouraging the responsible use of this often-overlooked species.
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