![]() Huge plankton blooms attract many species including these rays, which we set out to find. ![]() The currents here deliver nutrient-rich waters welcoming high biodiversity of marine life. Over the course of the month, we did eight field trips in Marine Protected Areas hugging the Yucatan Peninsula. Photo courtesy of the Manta Caribbean Project Karen is passionate and she is a leader, and the mantas, her “babies” she calls them, are lucky to have her. Gathering scientific information allows them to understand the population so they can develop programs to raise awareness, provide education to the local communities and government, and develop legislation for sustainable conservation. Karen Fuentes started MCP in 2013 to define the local manta ray species and habitat in the Caribbean Sea. birostris), though it is yet to be scientifically proven. It has been suggested by scientists that the mantas in the Mexican Caribbean could be a third species, the Caribbean Manta Ray ( Mobula cf. I spent a month with the Manta Caribbean Project (MCP) in Isla Mujeres, Mexico where they carry out research on the Giant Manta Ray ( Mobula birostris) currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Swimming with a manta ray is an experience that most everyone will define as unforgettable. Underwater the giant, elegant creatures glide by with seemingly little effort, their curiosity places a hold on you equal to your curiosity about them. Being in their presence fills our sense of wonder. It’s unknown why they breach, there is still much to learn, but the sighting is what we are after for our research. A double-breach incites more excitement as a second aerial flip lands it on its belly. ![]() We all scream in unison as a giant manta ray rockets out of the sea splashing on its back. ![]()
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