The manta ray, manta birostris, is the largest ray species in the world. They measure 19.7 to 29.5 feet (6 to 9 meters) long and can weigh up to 3,086 pounds (1400 kilograms). On the upper surface of their bodies, they usually range from black, to greyish-blue and brown in color while their undersides are pale. Every individual has a unique pattern of scars and blotches, making them distinguishable from one another. They have triangular pectoral ‘wings’ as well as paddle-like lobes that extend in front of their mouths. Their large, carvernous mouths contain 18 rows of teeth on the lower jaw, although they are not used for feeding.
The manta ray can be found in warm, tropical oceans all around the world. They will inhabit nearshore waters, often around coral reefs as well as continental shelves where food is abundant. This animal will often swim near the surface of the water or in the middle of a water column. They are mostly solitary animals, gathering together only if there is an abundance of food in the area or during mating season. Their large pectoral fins and short tails allow them to gracefully breeze through the water and they have even been known to leap out of the water.
The diet of the manta ray consists of planktonic organisms as well as small fish and crustaceans. They will funnel the food into their mouths with the help of fleshy projections located on either side of the mouth. The water is then filtered out using rows of tiny plates in their mouths, leaving the food particles. Remoras, wrasse and angelfish will often attach themselves to this creature, feeding on leftover food particles, parasites and dead tissue. A manta ray will often leave these fish alone since they provide such a valuable service to them. Despite their large size, these creatures are often preyed upon by things like great white sharks, tiger sharks and killer whales.
Mating for the manta ray can take place at any time of the year. When a male has found a female to mate with, he will bite her pectoral fin to get himself in a belly-belly position so that copulation can occur. The female will develop the eggs inside her body for up to 12 months. The eggs will hatch internally, meaning that a mother will give birth to live offspring (2 on average). Females will often give birth every other year in order to re-build their energy stores. It is unknown exactly how long these animals live, although some believe they can live up to 25 years.
The manta ray is a near threatened species. They face danger from accidental entanglement in fishing nets, pollution and over-hunting. The fact that they reproduce slowly makes repopulation a long and difficult task. Hopefully, something can be done to help the manta ray recover so that it never has to face the possibility of extinction. After all, such a unique fish species deserves to live and prosper far into the future.
Works Cited
“Manta Ray” (Manta Birostris)” 2 January 2012
“Manta Ray” 2 January 2012
“Manta Ray (Manta Birostris) FAQ” 2 January 2012
“Manta Ray Habitat” 2 January 2012