Cyclone Grant Update - Mobula Conservation

January 2023

In our last update for the Cyclone Grant, we showed our sample collection process of ray filets purchased from supermarkets and fish markets within La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Of the 145 filets purchased, we have been able to successfully identify 121 samples. Preliminary results indicate there are 12 species being sold under the label ‘Mantarraya’, with a higher success rate of purchasing being found at fish markets compared to supermarkets. As we are in the process of compiling all our data and starting to analyze our results for our investigation of the seafood label, we wanted to provide members of the Manta Trust community with background knowledge of the work our organization, Mobula Conservation, is conducting that inspired us to conduct our mislabeling project.

Mobula ray caught as bycatch. Photo credit: Blanca Idalia

Mobula Conservation’s mission is to conduct research and design conservation strategies to protect mobulid rays, focusing on habitat use, spatial ecology, population genetics, and identifying threats posed by artisanal and industrial fisheries. A key component to our approach is collaboration with fishermen and fishing communities. Working with local fishermen has helped our team understand the relationship between mobulids and the fishing community around the city of La Paz. Out of the 32 states of Mexico, Baja California Sur is ranked as third highest for fish landings. La Paz, is the capital of the state and is home to many artisanal fisheries which typically target sharks and stingrays, as they are legal to catch and sell for nine months out of the year (NOM-029-PESCA 2006). However, in 2006, the Mexican government prohibited the capture, trade, and consumption of mobulids (NOM-029-PESCA 2006).

Mobula ray being filleted. Photo credit: Gonzalez Garza

However, like many marine organisms, mobulids are susceptible to multiple anthropogenic threats, including targeted and accidental capture in fisheries using gillnets, longline, trawl, and purse seine gears. Because gillnets are commonly used in the Bay of La Paz to target stingrays and sharks, mobulids often also end up in these nets. We have collected anecdotal evidence suggesting that Mobulid carcassess are fileted at fish camps near La Paz, and concern has been expressed that they may be targeted or retained opportunistically for meat or sale.

Mobula ray being filleted. Photo credit: Blanca Idalia

This background led to the development of our study, which uses genetic analyses to identify species sold under the label of ‘Mantarraya’ in fish markets and supermarkets of La Paz. Due to the lack of information that is provided with the general label ‘Mantarraya,’ we aim to not only understand what species are comprised under this label, but also to determine whether known mobulids are being sold. Stay tuned to find out more about the results we have collected in our next update!