Giant oceanic manta rays ( Mobula birostris). Differing in size, dentition, and spine morphology, they also vary in preferred habitat, with the reef manta inhabiting the coastal fringes of the Indo-Pacific, and the giant oceanic manta spending its life in open waters around the world, mostly far from land. The Spanish word ‘manta’ means blanket, shawl, or coat, and gliding through the ocean, these inquisitive animals take on the appearance of a floating, fluid piece of material, flapping in the watery current.Ī recent scientist discovery in 2008 revealed that instead of one species of manta ray, there are in fact two in existence – the reef manta ray ( Mobula alfredi) and the giant oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris). Majestic and gentle, the manta ray is among the largest fish in the world. Gigantic oceanic manta rays average 4-4.5 metres, reef manta rays average 3 metres
Filter feeder, eating zooplankton and krill
