UNKNOWN AND NEGLECTED - THE ENIGMATIC MANTA RAY

Sri Lanka's manta rays, the largest of the ray family, face grave threats from overfishing, bycatch, and international gill plate trade despite their vital ecological role. Experts warn their slow reproduction makes them especially vulnerable, while neglect and lack of awareness have left conservation efforts lagging. Protecting these endangered giants is crucial for biodiversity and Sri Lanka's global reputation.

- By Tahaan Jayewardene

Unknown and neglected, are the words that best describe these gentle giants and great graceful birds of our oceans. Yesterday, 17th of September, we celebrated World Manta Day.

These enigmatic creatures and gentle giants of the sea are endangered and at risk in our waters. Experts and activists alike, highlight the grave threats faced by these species as well as other more common ray species in Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan oceans are home to the oceanic manta ray, the largest ray species in the world. These endangered and vulnerable species need to be protected in our waters, as their mainly killed for their flesh (or gill plates) and exported to countries such as China.

Manta's Matter

Manta rays, with their large triangular pectoral fins and two hornlike projections on the side of their heads, are large rays whose beauty and graceful flapping of winglike fins, are elegantly described by Dr. Jagath Gunawardana, Attorney at Law and environmental activist, as large birds flying underwater.

Though they are very large and have a mouth that helps them feed on planktonic forms, they are harmless species, that come to the bottom of the food chain when it comes to their feeding habits, adds Dr. Gunawardana.

This places them in a unique position on the food chain; they are huge creatures and yet depend on the smallest creatures in the ocean. He mentions that the true ecological services provided by manta rays are still not fully understood.

According to Marine Biologist at Ocean Rosy Sahan Thilakaratna the manta ray was found to dive between 100 to 1000 meters and as they return to the surface, they defecate and bring back crucial nutrients. These are essential for the growth of phytoplankton, the primary producers of marine ecosystems.