There are about 600 species of ray fish. They are related to the shark family and a great example of a fish showing characteristics of both is the sawfish. They live from 15 to 25 years. Scientists believe rays have been around since the Jurassic period, i.e. about one hundred and fifty million years.
a 90 degree turn 
Watch out for that tail.
The ray fish are playful but can be dangerous when they feel threatened. The young are born fully formed and ready to live on their own. Rays vary in size from 4 inches up to 20 feet. The largest, Manta Rays weigh up to one ton (2000 pounds). The largest Ray is recorded to be 6000 pounds. (3 Tons).
Another relative to this species is the Skate. It has a thicker tale and lives in much deeper water. They live up to 9000 feet deep.
There was one shallow pool where smaller rays were up close to the audience. The temptation to reach in and touch one was strong.
Flying like a bird. Look at my shadow. 
Here is a video of the Ray fish swimming/flying through the water. Warning, an aquarium is a noisy place, you may want to turn down the volume a bit before starting to play the video.
Nice photos and video is relaxing to watch. I had it on silent.
Doug, these images are transporting and relaxing, as always. I have never seen a creature swimfly before. Or is it flyswim? Gorgeous. And the opportunity to pet one? Wow. That reminds me of petting little sharks at the Aquarium in Long Beach, CA. They seemed to really like people petting them; they would swim close.
I love to watch the fish glide ever so gently through the water! Beautiful photos once again!