Up until 2012, scientists were sure that manta rays have only visual differences between each other. But after studying the DNA of several hundred individuals, they came to the conclusion that there are 2 types of manta rays in the world: oceanic and reef. So how do you know which one you're looking at?
Size. Reef mantas are smaller. The average width of the disk in oceanic mantas - 4-5 m, in reef mantas - 3-3.5 m.
Tail. Oceanic ones have a bump at the base of the tail behind the dorsal fin, while reef mantas do not have a bump in this place.
Bottom view. Oceanic mantas have dark dots on the lower surface of the disk, more often in the belly area. In reef mantas the pattern consists of stripes, more often in the region of the gills.
Anfas. In oceanic mantas, the coloration of the inner surface of the mouth and head fins is more often dark, and in reef mantas - light.
Top view. In oceanic “on the back” can be seen light-colored markings in the form of hooks, turned to the head fins. In the reef pattern is quite different: the shape of the marks are varied, their boundaries are often blurred.
We invite you to get acquainted with reef mantas in our tours. For reservations and advice: +960 758-44-40.
