Manta Ray Species Overview

Manta Ray Species

There are only a couple of species of Manta Rays in the world. One of them is the giant with the other being much smaller. In 2008 it was confirmed that a new species of Manta Ray had been discovered. Prior to that it was believed that it was the same species but that they grew to different sizes in various areas. We now know differently due to DNA testing and other types of data that professionals have used.

Right now they are simply classified as large and as small Manta Rays. The larger species tend to migrate more than the smaller ones. They are found in locations where the water is warm all over the world. The smaller species of Manta Ray tend to stay closer to the coral reefs. These are the ones you will likely see if you visit Hawaii, Australia, or Japan.

The two species are believed to remain almost completely separated from each other. The only location where they have been seen around the same area is Mozambique. This is based upon five years of independent research conducted by the Save our Seas Foundation out of Switzerland. There isn’t a definitely count though about how many of these Manta Rays are out there.

Evidence does show they have been around for millions of years. They are extremely intelligent and have bodies made for getting around in the water. However, the threats by humans can prove to be too much for them. If they continue to have their natural habitat exploited and they can’t find enough food their future is questionable.

Add in the fact that many humans pollute the waters with toxins and you have large numbers of them dying due to bacteria. During times of stress mating is less likely to occur even though it normally can take place all year long. The female Manta Rays are also able to abort their offspring when they are pregnant and feel that they are being threatened. As a result of this there is serious questions about their numbers dropping.

Many experts believe that there are more species of Manta Rays out there. We simply haven’t discovered them yet. Only time will tell if we are able to do so or not. This is a very fascinating angle of studying these animals that hopefully more light will be shed on. Due to their diverse habitat though and where in the water they reside this is a feat that won’t be simple by any means to accomplish.