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The
Manta Ray, the next largest marine species on
the Great Barrier Reef following the whales and
the whale sharks, can equally be described as
both charismatic and 'mega'. They grow to 5 metres
in width and weigh several hundred kgs. They are
a not-to-be-forgotten experience for any snorkeller
or diver who is fortunate enough to see one while
underwater. Divers often come into contact with
these animals on an ad hoc basis and there are
many references to swimming with mantas in the
popular literature.
There have been no studies to date about the ecology
or populations dynamics of this remarkable species
of ray. There is little information about their
current status, and world-wide there is next to
no information about these creatures.
Possible threats to the species in Australia have
not been catalogued, however threats are most
likely to be in the form of activities or processes
that impact on water quality or disturb habitat.
They are not recorded as any significant form
of by-catch from commercial fishing operations
in Australia, although other rays species are
occasionally caught in trawl nets.
This is possibly due to the fact that:
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Manta
rays are an active swimmer, occupying all
parts of the water column, particularly mid
water and near surface - whereas bottom dwelling
and more sedentary species of rays would be
more susceptible to capture by trawl operations
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Manta rays may have little affinity for open
deep water and prefer areas in contact with
coastal or reef/island features, areas where
trawlers do not work While little is known
about the current status of manta rays in
Australia it is assumed because their distribution
appears to cover a broad geographic area and
there are few identified threats, that their
populations are secure. Manta rays are not
currently protected by any fisheries legislation
in Australia. |
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