Spotted eagle ray

Photo: Thomas Menut · CC BY-NC

A resident spotted eagle ray — nicknamed 'Salvador' by the operators who dive La Source regularly — reliably appears at the eastern end of the plateau, cruising the sandy interface between the reef and open water. Eagle rays at La Source are drawn by the abundant buried molluscs in the sandy areas adjacent to the reef. Their distinctive spotted pattern is unique to each individual, allowing researchers and repeat visitors to identify specific animals — Salvador has been documented at the site for at least 8 years.