As the largest ray in the ocean, and a close relative to sharks, the manta ray continually sparks human interest and activates the imagination. Flapping its enormous pectoral fins, a manta ray seems to be almost flying through the ocean and its flat triangular body is reminiscent of stealthy fighter jets. Yet this giant filter feeder poses no threat to humans and remains the prize find for many SCUBA divers.
What is a Manta Ray?
The manta ray goes by many names and scientists once thought that three separate species of manta existed. However, despite being called the devil ray, sea devil, blanket fish, eagle ray, Pacific manta and Atlantic manta ray – there exists only one species of this marine animal. According to the “Giant Manta” webpage at the MarineBio Conservation Society, genetic sampling has shown that all these sea creatures are the same species, Manta birostris.
The many names for the manta ray can sometimes cause confusion – especially since its cousins in the Mobula genus are sometimes also called devil rays. Sorting through all the manta ray information, scientists have determined that mantas belong to the Family Mobulidae and differ from their cousins in several ways.
Manta Ray Acrobatics in the Air
Manta rays are most often seen gliding through the ocean, as they hunt for plankton and small fish. However, on rare occasions they can be seen doing much stranger things. Not content to stay in the ocean, manta rays have been seen breaching – jumping clear of the water and landing back with a splash. According to the “Manta” web profile from the Ichthyology Department at the Florida Museum of Natural History, these beautiful marine creatures are sometimes even seen somersaulting out of the water; an impressive feat for an animal that can weigh up to 3000 pounds. Although it’s not known just why manta rays perform these acrobatics, it is thought that it could be a way to attract mates.
Where to Find a Manta Ray
Seeing a manta ray – above or under water – is certainly an impressive experience. SCUBA divers often travel to well known manta ray dive locations to explore the manta ray habitat and search for these magnificent animals. Found in temperate to tropical waters, manta rays can be found near the shore or out in the open sea.
Yet, when looking for manta rays, it is important to respect their being and their space. Unfortunately Manta birostris is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species. Manta rays are threatened by fishing, pollution, and coastal degradation. The Red List serves as a reminder that fishing must happen in a safe and sustainable manner.
Megan Jungwi - Megan Jungwi started her freelance writing career in March 2009. Although new to online writing Megan has long been passionate about the ...
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