The Manta Trust’s goal is a sustainable future for the ocean, where manta rays and their relatives thrive in healthy diverse marine ecosystems. To achieve this goal, we are committed to conducting long-term, robust scientific studies that build the solid foundations upon which governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders can make informed and effective marine management decisions. Our research activities are driven by this goal and shape the priority themes detailed below.
GENETICS AND TAXONOMY
DNA provides a unique window into the past, present and future of a species. The Manta Trust can use it to understand the evolutionary history of manta and devil rays, and characterise patterns of population structure through genetic sequencing. We aim to elucidate the genetic diversity within these species and understand their taxonomic relationships. With the increasing accessibility of molecular techniques, such as DNA barcoding, researchers are driven to explore the genetic makeup of manta and mobula rays. This research is essential for accurate species identification, conserving the genetic diversity within these species, and helping to establish robust conservation strategies. Research activities include DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.
CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT AND POLICY
The increasing threats from bycatch, overfishing, and habitat degradation are a driving theme in research of mobulid rays. Given the international importance of these species, effective policies and management plans are critical. Research activities encompass policy analysis, population assessments, and stakeholder engagement. The primary goal is to devise science-based policies and conservation measures to ensure the survival of manta and devil rays, while considering the socio-economic factors involved.
BEHAVIOURAL AND SENSORY ECOLOGY
Behavioural and Sensory Ecology research is focused on unraveling how these species navigate their environments and interact with their surroundings. Field observations, tagging studies, and sensory physiology experiments are among the research activities. The aim is to gain insights into the fascinating behaviours of these rays, contributing to their conservation and offering an opportunity to engage the public in their protection.
FORAGING ECOLOGY AND PHYSICAL-BIOLOGICAL INTERACTIONS
Manta rays feed on microscopic zooplankton. The Manta Trust is investigating the zooplankton species diversity and abundance in key manta ray aggregation areas, to better understand the diet of manta rays and determine which species they have a preference for and in what numbers. They are also monitoring the zooplankton to help understand the possible impacts of the climate crisis on a warming ocean, which is likely reducing the abundance of the manta ray's food. Research activities include tracking their movements, studying prey availability, and physical oceanographic measurements.
POPULATION DYNAMICS AND DEMOGRAPHICS
The urgency to manage populations of mobulid rays sustainably, given their vulnerability, is a driving force for this research theme. Understanding population dynamics is critical for setting conservation priorities and strategies. Research activities include population modelling, photo-ID cataloging, and demographic analysis. The aim is to provide a basis for informed decision-making regarding the conservation of these charismatic and ecologically important species.
REPRODUCTIVE ECOLOGY AND LIFE HISTORY
The Manta Trust in collaboration with partners, developed the world’s first contactless underwater ultrasound scanner that allows researchers to see if a female manta ray is pregnant, and to study the development of the foetus, in a non-invasive way. Understanding why and how these rays reproduce is vital for their conservation. Research activities include studying reproductive organs, tracking mating behaviour, and monitoring birthing grounds, age and size at maturity, population fecundity, and longevity. The aim is to unravel the reproductive patterns of these rays, aiding in the development of conservation strategies that protect their vulnerable reproductive processes.
MOVEMENT ECOLOGY AND HABITAT USE
The pressing need to track and protect these species in a changing environment drives research in this area. Researchers aim to elucidate the dynamic relationships between manta and devil ray species and their environment, identifying key areas crucial for their survival, such as breeding and feeding grounds. Tracking technology, remote sensing, and spatial analysis are used to gather data. By understanding the nuances of their movement ecology, the Manta Trust aims to inform targeted conservation strategies, including the establishment of marine protected areas and sustainable fisheries management practices. This research not only contributes to the preservation of manta and devil ray populations but also advances our broader understanding of the role of movement ecology in effective marine conservation.
SOCIOECOLOGICAL SYSTEM AND EQUITY IN MARINE CONSERVATION
Research focussed on the socioecological system and equity in marine conservation investigates the human aspects of conservation, including the rights and interests of local communities and stakeholders. Research aims to understand the social, economic, and cultural factors influencing the conservation of mobulid species and ensure equitable conservation practices. Activities include community engagement, assessing economic dependencies on ray-related activities, and analysing cultural perspectives. The aim is to foster equitable and socially responsible conservation policies that account for the diverse interests and rights of those connected to manta and devil rays.
