When caught as bycatch, they are typically retained due to high market value. Diel movements and the highly migratory nature of giant manta rays makes them highly susceptible to being caught in fishing gear such as purse seines, longlines, gillnets and driftnets. Human Pressures: Both targeted and caught as bycatch in commercial and artisanal fisheries. Life Span: Estimated to be about 45 years based on the life span of the reef manta ray (Mobula alfredi). Females reach sexual maturity around 380-500 cm disc width, and males mature around 350-400 cm disc width. They can reach a maximum width of approximately 29 feet.
Female reproductive periodicity is unknown, but assumed to occur every 4-5 years. Lifespan and size: Giant manta rays have an impressive lifespan, estimated to be around 40 to 50 years.
Litter size consists of one pup after a gestation period of 12-13 months. Size: Maximum recorded size at 700 cm disc width. Presents patterns of diel habitat use, feeding at depths up to 1000 meters at night and moving into the shallows (up to 0 meters) during the day. Occurs in neritic and oceanic pelagic zones, particularly where upwelling occurs such as coast lines, oceanic islands and seamounts. Ventral side predominantly white with grey blotches which can be used for individual identification.ĭistribution and Habitat: Population of giant mantas is found around the globe in tropical and temperate waters. Predominantly black dorsal side, occasionally with white patches between head and wings. Description: A giant ray with a broad head and large head fins protruding forward.
