June 2024
Maldives Manta Conservation Programme Reaches Milestone of 6000th Reef Manta Ray Identified
The 6000th reef manta ray in the Maldives, a juvenile female named Mirihi. Photograph by Lynn Kessler
The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP), the flagship project of The Manta Trust, is proud to announce a significant achievement in manta ray conservation with the identification of the 6000th individual reef manta ray in the Maldives. This milestone underscores the programme's commitment to protecting these majestic marine creatures and highlights the importance of ongoing conservation efforts in the region.
The 6000th reef manta ray, a juvenile female named Mirihi, was first photographed in Ari Atoll by Lynn Kessler, a marine biologist working at Mirihi Island Resort. Manta rays can be easily identified by the unique spot pattern on their belly that remains unchanged throughout their life. This spot pattern can be matched against reference images, just as humans can be identified using fingerprints, which allowed the MMCP to determine from Lynn’s photograph that this little female manta ray was new to the database!
Each manta ray has a unique spot pattern that can be used to identify individuals. Photograph by Guy Stevens
Reef manta rays are majestic ocean giants, with the largest individuals reaching up to four and a half meters in wingspan. They have a lengthy lifespan, mature late, and give birth to only one pup at a time, presenting an ongoing ecological challenge to sustain a sizable population for this species. The Maldives stands out as the global epicentre for reef manta rays, hosting the largest population by a significant margin. This designation underscores the Maldives' critical role as a key location for manta research.
The MMCP was established 20 years ago, to study and safeguard manta rays in the Maldives, has been at the forefront of marine conservation initiatives in the region. Through a combination of community initiatives, research, and education, the programme has made substantial progress in understanding and protecting manta ray populations.
The 6000th reef manta ray in the Maldives, a juvenile female named Mirihi.
The identification of the 6000th reef manta ray is a testament to the programme's dedication and the collaborative efforts of researchers, volunteers, dive centres, citizen scientists, and local stakeholders. By meticulously documenting and tracking individual manta rays, the programme has been able to gather valuable data on their movements, behaviour, and population dynamics, contributing to the broader understanding of these enigmatic creatures.
“We are thrilled to reach this milestone of identifying the 6000th reef manta ray in the Maldives. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, as well as the support of all the citizen scientists, dive centres, and resorts who have submitted crucial data to us, and have been instrumental in our conservation efforts.”
As the MMCP celebrates this milestone, it also recognises the ongoing challenges facing manta rays in the country, including habitat degradation, climate change, and unsustainable tourism. The programme remains committed to advocating for the protection of manta rays and their marine habitats, working towards a sustainable future for these iconic species.
Celebrating the 6000th individual manta ray identification is no small feat! This incredible milestone gives us a chance to look back on the amazing achievements of the MMCP so far. From contributing to national protection for manta rays in the Maldives through the establishment of two manta-focused Marine Protected Areas in 2009, to advocating for all ray species to be added to the Maldivian National Protected Species List in 2014, the MMCP has been making waves in manta ray conservation.
The 6000th reef manta ray in the Maldives, a juvenile female named Mirihi. Photograph by Lynn Kessler
But that's not all - the MMCP has also been a pioneer in developing the first-ever best practice code of conduct for manta ray tourism. Their Marine Education Programme has inspired hundreds of local students, nurturing the next generation of Maldivian ocean ambassadors. And let's not forget their invaluable contributions to policy changes in countries where manta and devil rays face greater threats, all backed by solid scientific research.
With each manta ray identified, the MMCP's impact grows stronger, showing that together, we can make a real difference in protecting these majestic creatures and their ocean home. Here's to many more milestones and successes on the horizon!
For more information about the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme and how you can support their conservation initiatives, please visit www.mantatrust.org/maldives.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
• The Manta Trust is a UK-registered manta ray conservation charity, co-ordinating global research and conservation efforts around manta rays: www.mantatrust.org
• The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) is the charity's flagship research project. After more than a decade of research across this island nation, the MMCP has evolved into one of the largest and longest-standing manta conservation groups in the world: www.mantatrust.org/maldives
• Adopt a Manta: www.mantatrust.org/adopt-a-manta
• For Press Enquiries please contact: Jasmine Corbett, Manta Trust (jasmine.corbett@mantatrust.org)