World's largest manta ray seen near one of America's busiest beaches
The world's largest manta ray was spotted lurking off one of America's busiest beaches, carrying a passenger as it hunted for food.
TL;DR
- A giant oceanic manta ray, potentially the world's largest, was sighted off Long Island, New York, near Jones Beach State Park.
- The creature, which can have a wingspan of up to 26 feet and weigh over 4,000 pounds, was seen feeding and carrying another fish.
- Manta rays are filter feeders that consume zooplankton and small fish, and are found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate oceans.
- They are considered a threatened species, with populations significantly reduced by human activities, including hunting for their gill plates.
- Manta rays are vulnerable due to their slow reproduction rates, solitary nature, and susceptibility to overfishing, pollution, and entanglement.
- While typically found in deeper waters, they sometimes venture into New York's coastal areas during warmer months.
- Researchers believe certain areas, like South Florida, may serve as nurseries for young manta rays, though these are rare findings.
- The urban environment poses dangers to manta rays, including boat propellers and pollution.