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Manta Rays on the Great Barrier Reef

Updated Tue 31 Jan 2023

Manta ray gliding through aquarium

Image source: Wikipedia Commons

The Great Barrier Reef has been home to thousands of species, including manta rays, for over 500,000 years. The manta ray plays an essential role in the ecosystem of coral reefs. The big winged beauties feed on specific zooplankton on the ocean floor and when they return to the reef, they poop out an incredible fertilizer that provides nourishing nutrients to the flourishing coral gardens.


Where to See Manta Rays on the Reef 

Coral garden from above with open water in background

Lady Elliot Island, located in the south of the Great Barrier Reef, is considered the unofficial ‘home’ of manta rays. These creatures are seen spreading their wings and gliding through the ocean year-round in this region. However, they come out in droves from June to September, as these are the cooler months of the year in Australia. While you’re in the area, check out Hook Island’s Mantaray Bay. Mantaray Bay is a scuba diving hot spot, as the big beauties love to glide over the thick forests of coral and spread their special sea fertilizer, especially during winter. 

North Stradbroke Island is another popular destination to catch a glimpse of manta rays, especially during the summer months. As the dive site’s name suggests, manta rays absolutely flock to Manta Bommie’s reef. Drop by to see huge groups of manta rays gliding together. Their inquisitive nature makes exploring the reefs with them all the more magical, as these wonderful sea creatures love to inspect and play with divers.


Oldest Known Manta Ray

Giant manta ray

Image source: Wikipedia Commons

Manta rays can live for up to 50 years in the wild, and the Great Barrier Reef is lucky to be home to the oldest known of the species. It has been swimming in Australian waters for more than 40 years. First photographed way back in 1982, this big manta was christened Taurus. The photo was taken on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, and after four decades Taurus and their distinct black belly still inspires awe in divers. Taurus’ black belly is a result of their melanistic DNA, making their skin almost entirely black. These rays make up around 10% of the manta ray population on Australia’s east coast. Taurus’ favourite haunt is manta ray hot spot Lady Elliot Island. According to researchers, the celebrity manta ray has been spotted in the area more than 50 times. 


Interesting Facts About Manta Rays

The markings on manta rays are among the noticeable features of these incredible sea creatures. Even though the top portions of manta rays usually look alike, their undersides vary distinctly. No two manta rays have the same markings, and each is unique — like snowflakes! This makes it easier for researchers as they can easily distinguish one manta ray from another.


Manta Rays are Highly Intelligent

Manta ray's brain-to-size ratio is highly impressive. In fact, they possess the largest brains of any fish! Manta rays can even recognise themselves when standing (or swimming) before a mirror. And that’s just one slice of evidence indicating their brain power. They also showcase their intelligence with their high coordination skills and utilisation of complex tactics when feeding as a group. Groups of up to 150 manta rays will gather in a whirling formation, swimming anticlockwise for up to an hour to trap plankton in a cyclone-like feeding trap. Teamwork makes the dream work!


Manta Rays are Harmless to People

In the past, manta rays have been feared due to misunderstanding. Most commonly, divers confuse them for stingrays. However, manta rays are harmless to humans and have docile and peaceful personalities, so much so that they’re nicknamed the angels of the sea. Any lover of the sea and its creatures would love to swim alongside these incredibly intelligent beauties on the Great Barrier Reef!


Manta Rays and Reef Tours

Woman diving through reef

The best way to score a close encounter with a manta ray is with a Cairns reef tour. Snorkel and scuba through the clean and peaceful waters of the reef, and have the best time witnessing manta rays and their reef comrades (like turtles, whales and even harmless sharks!) in their natural habitat. Some trips even offer glass bottom boat tours, where you can peer into the oceanic wonderland through glass panels!


Book your close encounter with a manta ray today and spend a day under the sun exploring the Great Barrier Reef! Chat with our friendly travel experts to iron out the nuts and bolts of the adventure that awaits.

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