The spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus ocellatus) and the giant oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris) are listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. While the manta ray has received worldwide attention due to its charismatic nature and migratory patterns, both species are generally understudied in the Galapagos Islands.
A comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of these species is crucial for their long-term management and conservation.
Your photos and videos can not only help scientists to differentiate individuals and document their sexual stage, mating marks and general injuries, but also support the team’s understanding of their movement patterns at regional and local levels, helping to identify areas of key importance that need to be protected.
By submitting your photos of rays to the team, you will be contributing to vital research needed to develop long-term conservation actions for this species. Every sighting counts!
To make your submission as valuable as possible, please include as much of the information below as you can:
Depending on whether you are a tourist or a Galapagos resident (dive instructor/fisher/guide, etc.), there are different ways to share your findings with the spotted eagle ray team:
Tourist
Resident (dive instructor/fisher/guide, etc.)
The project team will make sure you receive due credit in any scientific publications that include your report data.
By sharing your photos of rays, you are contributing to vital marine conservation research.
