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Sadly, manta ray numbers around the world have been on the decline in recent decades. Indeed, the Giant manta ray can reach a wingspan of up to 7 metres and sometimes even 9, while the Reef manta ray remains at. Some experts believe manta rays might also recognize themselves in mirrors, displaying self-awareness, a rare ability in the animal world. Scientists have confirmed that manta rays have the largest brains of any fish, with enhanced abilities for learning, problem solving, and communicating. This is perhaps because they are highly-intelligent creatures. In fact, they're curious creatures that seem to welcome interaction with humans. If you encounter a manta ray while diving, don't be surprised if it approaches you. Occasionally, manta rays will jump completely out of the water as a form of play or communication. As their giant fins gently flap and their short, whip-like tails swish back and forth, they appear to be flying through the water rather than swimming. You'll often find manta rays swimming near the surface in warm waters off the coast of islands or continents. They look somewhat like a devil's horns and are used to direct food, such as plankton and small fishes, into the manta ray's mouth.
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Manta rays also have cephalic fins at the front of the head. Some people have even reported finding manta rays as large as 30 feet across. When outstretched, those wings can span over 20 feet across. Also known as a giant devil ray or an Atlantic manta, the giant manta ray's scientific name is Manta birostris.įlat and wider than they are long, manta rays have triangular pectoral fins that resemble wings. It's the sea creature you've been waiting to see: a huge manta ray. Looking up, you see an immense sea creature floating above you. Suddenly, a shadow encases you in darkness. As you swim past a coral reef, colorful fish dazzle your eyes. Imagine you're diving off the shoreline of a tropical island. Will you be the one to dive deep to discover what lies beneath the surface? When you consider that about 70% of Earth is covered by water, you realize that the unexplored depths of the world's seas are a vast frontier with untold mysteries to discover. How could one ever see all that Earth's surface has to offer? Have you ever dreamed of exploring the depths of the world's oceans? For true explorers, the sheer size of Earth probably seems incredibly daunting.