Oceanic Manta Rays in Fiji // Manta Project Fiji 2022

Recently, the first photographic evidence of the occurrence of oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) just off the capital city of Suva in Fiji was published. While anecdotal reports existed, definite proof of these large rays utilising Fiji waters had been missing until now.

Both existing manta species, M. birostris and M. alfredi were grouped together under "M. birostris" until 2009 when it was discovered that they actually represent separate species. While there are some mentions of M. birostris in Fijian literature, such as a Ministry of Fisheries report from 1983, it is impossible to say which manta species were recorded due to the species update in 2009. To the best of our knowledge, there is no confirmation of the "true" M. birostris (oceanic manta ray) via specimen or photographic evidence to date.

In order to create effective management strategies, it is important to gather as much data as possible to facilitate fact-based decision-making that will ultimately benefit the conservation of manta rays within Fiji waters and beyond. This becomes even more clear if the conservation status of oceanic manta rays is taken into account. Recently, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reclassified oceanic manta rays to 'Endangered' with a decreasing population trend. A scientific paper describing the exciting discovery is currently in review.

In this short video Luke Gordon, marine biologist and project leader of the Manta Project Fiji, walks us through this exciting discovery and gives us some background information about manta rays in general and how surveys are conducted in the area.

Manta Project Fiji (MPF) is a non-profit organisation based in Fiji and dedicated solely to the research and protection of manta rays and their cousins. Established in 2012, as a subsidiary of the larger Manta Trust organisations, MPF relies one hundred per cent on donations. If you would like to find out more about their work in Fiji or if you would like to support the work through a donation, please head over to their website: https://www.mantaprojectfiji.com

Filmed and Edited by Tom Vierus // Pacific Media House

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