Manta Rays are also sometimes called “Devil Rays” because of its two horn-like flaps in its mouth. It might be the biggest ray in the planet. Manta Rays do not have spine on its tail bases. 

Manta Rays are not dangerous. They are even harmless and can’t hurt any diver or swimmer. They are usually very curious and swim around the divers. They can sometimes even jump out of the water to get rid off their parasites!

Most of the nine species of manta rays are listed as Near Threatened, Vulnerable, or Endangered on the IUCN Red List. However, devil rays were not listed on Appendix II of CITES until 2016. Despite being protected by law, manta rays are still hunted in countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Borneo, Papua and in any other countries where mantas are found.

Manta rays, which are being overfished for their gill rakers. Manta gill rakers are not part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but are used in the preparation of a soup-like “health tonic” known as peng yu sai that contains toxic pollutants and carcinogens.

The number of manta rays around the globe has declined by 30%. Morn Creations manta backpack design highlight the beauty of manta rays. We hope more people to raise awareness of the impact that gill plate consumption has on populations, to reduce demand in China, and to protect threatened rays and help keep our ocean’s gentle giants safe.