Giant Oceanic Manta Ray
Mobula birostris
Overview
The giant oceanic manta ray is the world's largest ray, known for its massive size and graceful 'flying' motion through the ocean.
Fun Fact
Manta rays have the largest brain of all fish and show signs of self-awareness and intelligence.
Physical Characteristics
Diamond-shaped body with wide fins stretching up to 7 meters. They have unique spots on their belly that act like fingerprints.
Behavior & Ecology
They are filter feeders and are often seen leaping out of the water, a behavior called breaching.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
They swim with their mouths wide open, filtering huge quantities of zooplankton through their gill plates.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
They are slow breeders, giving birth to only one pup every 2 to 5 years.
Human Interaction
Popular for scuba diving tourism. They are curious and sometimes interact peacefully with divers.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray?
The scientific name of the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray is Mobula birostris.
Where does the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray live?
Open oceans and coastal reefs in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
What does the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray eat?
Carnivore (Planktivore). They swim with their mouths wide open, filtering huge quantities of zooplankton through their gill plates.
How long does the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray live?
The lifespan of the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray is approximately 40-50 years..
