

How does the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray survive in its habitat? This does not have the fin or sting seen in other ray species. These work to funnel food towards their mouth.Ī short tail is present at the end of their body. On either side of the head are two large appendages known as lobes. These are unique to each individual and can be used to tell them apart. Coloration is variable among individuals with some being almost entirely black and others being black on the upper side and white on the underside.Īlong the underside of the giant oceanic manta ray are black spots. On top of the fins are two white marks over the shoulder area. To move through the water they move these fins up and down. Individuals can reach lengths of between 4 and 7m (13 and 23ft) long with a weight of up to 1.8 tonnes (1.75tons).Īs a ray they have large, triangular, pectoral fins on either side of the body. The giant oceanic manta ray is, as their name suggests the world’s largest species of ray. What does the Giant Oceanic Manta Ray look like? Read to learn more about these fabulous fish.
#Giant manta ray size skin#
As a result it is difficult for them to replace any individuals lost from the population.Ĭurrently they are threatened by fishing with high demand for their meat for use as food and medicines along with their skin for leather. Some small fish are also consumed.įemale manta rays will only produce a single pup every two or three years. They feed mostly on plankton which are microscopic organisms in the oceans. They are found in the pelagic zone of tropical oceans.ĭespite their large size this species poses little threat to other species in the ocean or humans. The giant oceanic manta ray is the world’s largest species of ray.
