Discovering Manta Rays 5 Awesome Facts and Their Life in The Ocean

When diving in Bali, encountering a manta rays habitat is a highlight for many divers. These graceful giants of the sea are not just awe-inspiring because of their size and elegance but also due to their fascinating biology and behaviors. Here are five awesome facts about manta rays that make them even more incredible to encounter during your Bali diving adventures.

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1. Brain larger than body weight

Of all the 32,000 fish species known to man, manta rays have the largest brain to body weight! This is why their feeding habit is coordinated! Manta rays are not just physically impressive; they are also highly intelligent. In fact, manta rays have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish, which is a strong indicator of their cognitive abilities. Their brains are even larger than those of some birds and mammals, relative to their body size.

This high level of brain function supports their complex social interactions, problem-solving abilities, and even self-awareness. Manta rays have been observed engaging in playful behaviors, interacting with divers, and even recognizing themselves in mirrors—a rare trait among animals. So, when you encounter a manta ray while diving in Bali, you’re not just seeing a magnificent creature, but one that is exceptionally smart as well.

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2. Swimming blankets

Manta is derived from a Spanish word that means ‘blanket.’ One of the most mesmerizing sights in the underwater world is the graceful, fluid movement of manta rays as they glide through the water. Often referred to as “swimming blankets,” manta rays can have wingspans that reach up to 7 meters (23 feet) or more. Their large, triangular pectoral fins enable them to move with an effortless elegance, almost as if they are flying underwater.

This extraordinary size and shape allow manta rays to cover vast distances as they migrate, often swimming hundreds of kilometers to reach feeding or breeding grounds. In Bali, especially around Manta Point near Nusa Penida, you can witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, gracefully “flying” through the ocean.

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3. Do you know they have stings?

While manta rays are part of the same family as stingrays, there is a significant difference: manta rays do not have a stinging barb. Unlike their stingray cousins, manta rays have evolved without this defense mechanism. Instead, they rely on their large size and speed to avoid predators. This makes them completely harmless to humans, which is why divers can safely swim alongside them without worry. However, it’s still essential to respect their space and observe them from a distance, allowing them to move freely and naturally. Understanding this distinction can help reduce the fear some people may have when encountering these majestic creatures during a Bali diving excursion.

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4. Weird: They have skin-covered teeth

One of the lesser-known facts about manta rays is that they have tiny, skin-covered 300 teeth located on the underside of their lower jaw. These teeth are not used for chewing or biting; in fact, they are vestigial, meaning they have no functional purpose in modern manta rays. Scientists believe these teeth are a remnant from their evolutionary ancestors. The presence of these teeth adds another layer of intrigue to the already fascinating biology of manta rays. When you’re diving in Bali, it’s worth remembering that these gentle giants, with their unusual and ancient features, are a link to the ocean’s deep evolutionary history.

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5. Burrito babies

Manta rays give birth to live young, known as pups, and they do so in a rather interesting way. The baby manta rays are born rolled up like burritos to protect their delicate fins. Once born, these pups unfurl and begin to swim on their own almost immediately. Manta rays typically give birth to only one pup at a time after a gestation period of about a year. The slow reproductive rate of manta rays makes them vulnerable to population declines, which is why conservation efforts are crucial to their survival. Seeing a baby manta ray during a dive in Bali is a rare and special experience, showcasing the fragility and wonder of marine life.

Conclusion

Bali Diving offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter manta rays, one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. From their large brains and graceful movements to their unique evolutionary traits, manta rays are truly fascinating animals. Each encounter with a manta ray during your Bali diving adventure is a chance to appreciate these intelligent and ancient creatures, making your dive not just an exploration of the underwater world, but also a journey into the wonders of marine biology.