Scientists Confirm Third Manta Ray Species Swimming in Atlantic Waters
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📰 The quick summary: Scientists have confirmed a third manta ray species in the western Atlantic Ocean, named Mobula yarae after a Brazilian water spirit, enhancing our understanding of marine biodiversity.
📈 One key stat: Researchers examined thousands of photos and videos of the species throughout its range to identify the distinctive Atlantic manta ray, enhancing scientific knowledge of ray biodiversity.
💬 One key quote: “Deep down, we’d all known it was a new species for years, but that day, I felt a sense of relief, certain that we could make progress,” said lead author Nayara Bucair from the University of São Paulo in Brazil.
1️⃣ The big picture: Marine scientists have confirmed the existence of a third manta ray species in the western Atlantic Ocean. Named Mobula yarae after Yara, a water spirit from Indigenous Brazilian mythology, this discovery validates a prediction made by researchers back in 2009. The confirmation required years of detailed genetic and morphological analysis, examining specimens from Brazil, the US, and the Bahamas. While visually similar to its cousins, the Atlantic manta ray has distinctive V-shaped white shoulder patches and a lighter face that help identify it as a separate species.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: This discovery significantly enhances our understanding of marine biodiversity and evolutionary relationships among manta rays. The formal description of Mobula yarae marks the crucial first step toward developing targeted conservation strategies for this species. Scientists can now better assess the conservation status of all three manta ray species, leading to more accurate protection measures. The discovery also highlights the importance of scientific collaboration and recognition of research efforts from the Global South, potentially encouraging more diverse participation in marine conservation work.
3️⃣ What’s next: Scientists need to reassess the conservation status of this newly confirmed species and its cousin M. birostris, as they were previously considered the same. Further research will require collaborative international efforts to study this elusive creature in the vast ocean. Conservation strategies must account for M. yarae’s coastal habits and limited distribution, which make it especially vulnerable to human impacts.
Read the full story here: Mongabay – Third manta ray species confirmed in western Atlantic
