Proyecto Mantas Ecuador was established in 2010 to track and protect oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) across Ecuador and the Eastern Tropical Pacific. Ecuador is home to the largest known population of oceanic manta rays in the world, with many individuals frequenting the waters off Isla de la Plata, Bajo Cope and the Galapagos Islands.
This region provides an unparalleled opportunity to study this iconic species; however, it is fraught with artisanal fishing pressure and other human impacts. A carefully designed action plan is needed to categorise these threats and provide recommendations to reduce the negative impacts of these on this charismatic ocean giant.
Your photos will help the team track the movements of these ocean giants around Ecuador and the Eastern Tropical Pacific, and the ongoing work to protect this species.
With your photos, the team can build databases on the distribution and movements of oceanic manta rays in Ecuador and the Eastern Tropical Pacific, which are essential to any long-term conservation efforts. Every sighting counts!
To make your submission as valuable as possible, please include as much of the following information 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 Proyecto Mantas Ecuador team:
TouristÂ
Resident (dive instructor/fisher/guide, etc.)
The team will reach out to let you know if your manta is new to the project. If it is, the team will give you the chance to name the manta. They will also let you know if your sighting is a resighting. You will also be informed when and where your manta was last seen.
The project team will make sure you receive due credit in any scientific publications that include your report data.
By sharing your photos of manta rays, you are contributing to vital marine conservation research.
