Courtship and mating behaviour of manta rays Mobula alfredi and M. birostris in the Maldives

July 2018

Guy M. W. Stevens, Julie P. Hawkins & Callum M. Roberts

Keywords: Cleaning Stations • Copulation • Courtship Trains • Mate Choice • Reproductive Behaviour

Summary: This 14-year study aimed to understand the courtship and mating behaviour of reef and oceanic manta rays (Mobula alfredi and M. birostris). Behavioural observations, videos, and photos were used. Over 11,000 surveys were conducted in the Maldives, resulting in the identification of 4,247 M. alfredi and 226 M. birostris individuals. Courtship activity was observed at 30 different sites, with a total of 229 courtship events recorded. The courtship process was categorized into seven stages, including initiation, endurance, copulation, and separation. The study provides the first comprehensive scientific documentation of manta ray courtship and mating, revealing similar behaviours in both species.

Abstract

“The aim of this 14 year study was to elucidate the entire courtship and mating behaviour of manta rays Mobula alfredi and M. birostris using behavioural observations, video and photographic records. From 2003 to 2016, over 11 000 surveys were undertaken at known manta ray aggregation sites in the Maldives to record any observed manta rays reproductive activity. From 47 591 photo‐ID sightings, 4247 individual M. alfredi were identified and 226 individual M. birostris from 229 photo‐ID sightings, all recorded at 22 atolls across 265 different sites. Courtship activity was observed on 206 surveys at 30 different sites. A total of 229 courtship events were recorded, with 90% (n = 205) of them occurring at cleaning sites. The observed courtship activity was categorised into seven distinct stages which are described in detail: initiation, endurance, evasion, pre‐copulatory positioning, copulation, post‐copulatory holding and separation. Photographs provide the first scientific record of the entirety of manta rays courtship and mating. Both M. alfredi and M. birostris appear to engage in the same elaborate courtship rituals, exhibiting the same behaviours during all stages of the courtship and mating process. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.”

Author Affiliations

  • The Manta Trust

  • Environment Department, University of York

Funded by

  • Save Our Seas Foundation

  • Four Seasons Resorts Maldives

  • Six Senses Laamu

  • Ministries of Fisheries and the Environment