Manta ray

Dharavandhoo Thila - Manata Black Pearl

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Manta alfredi cruising - journal.pone.0046170.g002A

Manta alfredi maldives

Manta alfredi at a ‘cleaning station’ - journal.pone.0046170.g002B

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Manta ray (Manta) refers to a genus of large rays belonging to the family Mobulidae. They are characterized by their distinctive body shapes, featuring triangular pectoral fins, horn-shaped cephalic fins, and large, forward-facing mouths. Manta rays are filter feeders and consume large quantities of zooplankton which they swallow with their open mouths as they swim. The genus contains two main species, the giant manta ray (Manta birostris) and the reef manta ray (Manta alfredi).

Description

Manta rays are among the largest fish in the ocean. The giant manta ray can reach a wingspan of up to 7 meters (23 feet) and weigh up to 1,350 kg (2,980 lb). The smaller reef manta ray has a wingspan of up to 5.5 meters (18 feet). Both species have a unique body structure that helps them to efficiently filter feed while swimming. Their large mouths are located at the front of their bodies, and they have developed cephalic fins on either side of their heads which they can roll up or flatten out to help channel plankton-rich water into their mouths.

Habitat and Distribution

Manta rays are found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters around the world. They prefer open ocean environments and are often seen near coral reefs, seamounts, and oceanic islands where their food sources, mainly plankton, are abundant. The giant manta ray is more commonly found in the open ocean, while the reef manta ray tends to stay closer to coral reefs.

Behavior

Manta rays are solitary creatures but are also known to form groups or aggregations, especially when feeding. They are known for their acrobatic abilities, often leaping from the water. Scientists believe this behavior may be a way to remove parasites or communicate with other manta rays. Manta rays are also highly migratory, capable of traveling long distances in search of food or suitable breeding grounds.

Reproduction

Manta rays have a slow reproduction rate. Females give birth to live young, called "pups," after a gestation period of about 13 months. Typically, a single pup is born, although twins have been recorded. The long gestation period and low birth rate make manta rays particularly vulnerable to threats.

Conservation

Manta rays face several threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and fishing. They are often caught as bycatch in fisheries targeting other species, but there is also a targeted fishery for manta rays in some regions. Their gill plates are highly valued in traditional medicine in some cultures, which has led to overfishing. As a result, both species of manta ray are listed as "Vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Cultural Significance

Manta rays hold cultural significance for many coastal communities around the world. They are often seen as symbols of grace and power and are featured in many myths and legends.

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