Overview
- Peer-reviewed research published December 15 in Marine Biology reports that juvenile Caribbean manta rays (Mobula yarae) commonly travel with multi-species fish groups functioning as mobile ecosystems.
- Scientists analyzed 465 videos recorded from 2016 to 2021 to identify which species accompanied the rays and where they clustered on the body, often near gills, eyes, wings, and tails.
- Four teleost families were regular associates, with remoras most frequent and economically important species such as jacks and cobia also commonly present.
- Palm Beach County and nearby South Florida waters serve as a nursery for young mantas, heightening exposure to dense recreational boating and fishing activity.
- The authors recommend vessel slowdowns in known surface-feeding areas and responsible fishing practices to reduce boat strikes and entanglement risks to mantas and their associated fish communities.