One of the many impressive marine encounters in Galápagos is with the Pacific manta ray (Manta hamiltoni), the largest of the rays. Specimens of this cartilaginous fish have reached "wingspans" of more than 7 metres across, and, with their flattened body shape, they glide like underwater birds. Manta rays are filter feeders, gulping large amounts of water into their mouths with the help of special appendixes on both sides of their heads. These extensions, known as cephalic lobes, also give them their alternate name "Devil Ray." Once they have a mouthful of water and plankton, they spit the water back out and eat the plankton.
One interesting feature of Mantas is their colour pattern. Mantas are most commonly black above and white below, but some are blue on their backs. Individual mantas possess distinct dorsal and ventral coloration that is unique to each animal. It is believed that the markings on their shoulders and ventral side show distinctive regional differences. The size and shape of the shoulder patches, the precise form of spots and blotches on the ventral side and the lifetime pattern of scars form a pattern of markings as unique as a human fingerprint.!
Their range is circumtropical, with sightings in the Atlantic from as far north as New England and south to Brazil. In the Galapagos Islands, these amazing creatures are often seen by snorkelers or even from the dinghies as they surface to catch a glimpse of humans. Mantas are known to breach and sometimes even leap completely out of the water. No one can really explain this behaviour. It may be simple curiosity, communication to others of their own species, desire to rid themselves of skin parasites or they may be playing. Leaping male Mantas may also show their fitness as a part of their elaborated courtship display. During this display, several males fight over females, the winner mates with her using his claspers, and copulation may last a little over a minute!!
Mantas add beauty and mystery to our world and it is up to us to protect and respect them.
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