Manta Ray
The Manta Ray (Mobula birostris) is a large species of ray found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. It is the largest species of ray, with a wingspan of up to 23 feet.
The Manta Ray is a filter feeder, using its large, gaping mouth to scoop up plankton and small fish. They are a gentle and peaceful species that are known for their graceful movement and their acrobatic displays, often leaping out of the water.
Manta Rays are a vulnerable species, facing threats from overfishing and pollution.
Manta Ray
Classification
Chondrichthyes > Myliobatiformes > Mobulidae > Mobula > M. birostris
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
10 - 20 feet
(3 - 6 m)
Average Weight
3,000 - 5,000 lbs
(1,360 - 2,270 kg)
Average Life Span
20 - 40 years
Gestation Period
12 months
Did You Know?
The Manta Ray is the largest ray in the world, with some individuals reaching a wingspan of over 20 feet!
Despite their large size, Manta Rays are gentle giants and feed on tiny plankton and small fish by filter-feeding.
They have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any cold-blooded fish, indicating their intelligence.
Manta Rays are highly migratory and can travel vast distances across oceans.
Each Manta Ray has a unique spot pattern on its belly, which scientists use to identify them.
They can live for up to 40 years in the wild.
Manta Rays have cephalic lobes, horn-like fins on their head, which they can unfurl to help funnel food into their mouths.
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