#GIANT OCEANIC MANTA RAY AGE SKIN#

For example, specimens from the eastern Pacific often feature dusky to mostly black undersurfaces, while those from the western Pacific are typically snow white underneath.Īlthough it's difficult not to recognise an adult manta ray, juveniles can be similar in appearance to mobula rays (of which there are 9 species) that grow to 3 metres and share cephalic lobes and gracefully curved pectoral wings. There are also regional differences in colour patterns. Their body patterns show individual variation and helps identify individuals, as well as species. Mantas vary in colour from black, grey-blue, to red-brown on the upper surface of their cartilage body, sometimes with white shoulder patches and blotches, and almost pure white on the lower surface of their pectoral fins and body disc. With graceful pectoral 'wings', manta rays are easily recognised by their paddle-like cephalic lobes projecting forward from the front of the head (actually extensions of the pectoral fins, supported by radial cartilages), and a very broad, rectangular terminal mouth. The Spanish word for blanket is 'manta' and aptly describes the unique body shape of this animal.

They can grow to 6.7m wide, weigh up to 1,400 kg, and are the largest of all rays.

Scientific name: Manta Birostris and Manta Alfredi Distinguishing Features Manta Ray Fact Sheetįamily name: Myliobatidae, subfamily Mobulinae

#GIANT OCEANIC MANTA RAY AGE SKIN#

While the remoras do not harm their host directly (apart from sore skin where attached), mantas do use more energy when swimming with them. Remoras have their first dorsal fin modified into a sucking disc. Manta rays are strong pelagic swimmers, possibly able to cross the open ocean and so often host 1 or more clinging remora, or sucker fish. Other great places to witness these majestic creatures include Koh Bon in Thailand, Komodo and Raja Ampat in Indonesia, Black Rock in Myanmar, Kadavu in Fiji, Cabo Marshall in the Galapagos Islands and Mexico. Sightings are common in the Maldives, particularly during the August to October feeding and mating spectacular at Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll, in the northern atolls of the Maldives. These magnificent creatures are frequently seen feeding alone or in small groups near the surface and other near shore waters near coral and rocky reefs. There are few sights more awe inspiring for scuba divers than watching manta rays performing their graceful somersaults. Find out more about these beautiful and mysterious fish. They capture divers' imaginations since they move so gracefully and majestically through the water - whether frolicking in the surf, or enjoying the skin care treatment of a cleaning station. We have done some of the world's best manta dives and know that the joy of diving with these creatures is difficult to overstate.

Giant oceanic manta ray age