Are there manta rays in Indonesia?
Manta rays are found throughout Indonesia in areas of upwelling nutrient-rich water. Both species of manta; Reef and Oceanic (Mobula alfredi & Mobula birostris) are found in Indonesia however they are rarely seen together.
Why are manta rays being killed in Indonesia?
The mantas were hunted mainly for food, but from the early 2000s, growing demand for their large gills for use in Chinese medicine meant lucrative business for the manta fishers. Indonesia’s 2014 catch ban meant that in one fell swoop, Lamakera faced losing not only a customary food source but also much-needed income.
When can you see manta rays in Indonesia?
During the summer months between June and September, cold water upwellings create the perfect conditions for manta rays, as well as the extraordinary mola mola. Divers have a very good chance of encountering mola mola around Nusa Penida and Lembongan on a deep dive in the morning.
Are manta rays illegal to catch?
Question: Is it legal to fish for manta rays in California, specifically in the San Francisco Bay area? (Gina T.) Answer: Manta rays are generally not found off California, and since they are filter feeders, it may be difficult to persuade one to take your bait. If so, they too are legal to take.
What has replaced the Manta Ray hunts in Indonesia since they became protected?
In 2016, CITES agreed to add all nine species of devil rays to Appendix II, giving them the same trade protections as the mantas.
Are manta rays eaten by humans?
The Manta Ray is Harmless to Humans Manta rays are filter feeders eating tiny marine organisms including zooplankton, small fish and crustaceans. A manta ray generally moves at a speed of 14kph but can reach bursts of up to 35kph.
How can you help manta rays?
Get Involved
- Help us monitor manta ray populations. Are you a diver or snorkeller, with an interest in underwater photography?
- Adopt the manta code of conduct. If you are diving or snorkelling with mantas, follow the manta code of conduct to maximise your encounter.
- Sign the petition to save manta rays.
Are manta rays protected?
In 2011, manta rays became strictly protected in international waters thanks to their recent inclusion in the Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals. The CMS is an international treaty organization concerned with conserving migratory species and habitats on a global scale.
Is snorkeling with manta rays safe?
Manta Rays are not dangerous. They are even harmless and can’t hurt any diver or swimmer. They are usually very curious and swim around the divers. They can sometimes even jump out of the water to get rid off their parasites!
Can you scuba dive with manta rays?
Diving with manta rays is an incredible, nearly otherworldly experience, for those who’ve had the opportunity to experience seeing these graceful, gentle creatures up close.
Where can I find manta rays?
Top 12 Best Places to Dive with Manta Rays
- Socorro Island, Mexico.
- Costa Rica. Cocos Island. Las Catalinas.
- Isla de la Plata, Ecuador.
- Kona, Hawaii.
- Thailand. Similan Islands. Koh Bon.
- Indonesia. Komodo & Flores Island. Bali. Raja Ampat.
- Australia. Great Barrier Reef (Lady Elliot Island) Coral Bay.
- Ishigaki Island, Japan.
What has replaced the manta ray hunts in Indonesia since they became protected?