Rescue method for a stranded giant manta ray (Mobula birostris).

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Conservation Science
• Animal Rescue

Background:

• Giant manta rays (Mobulidae) are large, vulnerable marine animals.
• Strandings of large mobulids pose significant rescue challenges due to their size and body shape.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel technique for rescuing stranded giant manta rays.
• To adapt existing cetacean rescue methods for mobulid rays.
• To provide guidance for future large mobulid rescue operations.

Main Methods:

• An opportunistic rescue of a 6-meter giant manta ray was conducted.
• A technique adapted from stranded cetacean protocols was modified for mobulid anatomy.
• The method focused on minimizing damage during the return to deeper water.

Main Results:

• A successful rescue of a stranded giant manta ray was achieved using the adapted technique.
• The modified technique proved suitable for the dorso-ventrally compressed shape of mobulid rays.
• The rescue operation highlighted the potential effectiveness of this new approach.

Conclusions:

• The described technique offers a viable method for rescuing stranded large-bodied mobulid rays.
• Adaptation of protocols from other marine mammal rescues can be beneficial.
• Further refinement and application of this method can aid in mobulid conservation efforts.