Manta Rays: Gentle Giants of the Open Ocean

Manta rays are among the ocean's most magnificent creatures — gliding through open water on wings up to 23 feet wide. Despite their enormous size, they feed only on tiny plankton and are completely harmless to humans. They also have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish on Earth.

Are Manta Rays Dangerous?

Manta rays are completely harmless. Unlike stingrays, they do not have a venomous tail barb. They are gentle, curious animals that often approach divers and swimmers. Swimming with manta rays is considered one of the most magical wildlife encounters in the ocean.

How Big Are Manta Rays?

The giant oceanic manta ray has a wingspan up to 23 feet (7 m) and can weigh up to 5,300 lbs. The reef manta ray is smaller, with a wingspan of up to 14 feet. Both species have distinctive horn-like cephalic fins on either side of their mouths used to funnel plankton in while feeding.

Are Manta Rays Intelligent?

Manta rays have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish and show signs of high intelligence: they can recognize themselves in mirrors (a test passed by very few animals), appear to show curiosity and playfulness, and visit cleaning stations — reef areas where small fish remove parasites from them — with apparent intention and planning.

Are Manta Rays Endangered?

Both manta ray species are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Their biggest threat is targeted fishing for their gill plates, which are sold in Chinese traditional medicine markets. They are also caught as bycatch and are threatened by marine debris entanglement.

Amazing Manta Ray Facts

• Manta rays can leap several feet out of the water — possibly to communicate, shed parasites, or just for fun.
• Each manta ray has a unique spot pattern on its belly used to identify individuals.
• Females give birth to live pups — usually just one pup every 2–3 years.
• Manta rays have been documented visiting cleaning stations at the same time each day, suggesting a sense of time.