Amazing Manta Ray Photos

Incredible Manta Ray Photos from the Maldives

Scuba divers visiting the Maldives are attracted by the incredible variety of marine life.  There are five major attractions, one of which is the Manta Ray.

Manta Ray Photo by G. Nowak in the Maldives

About the Manta Ray

The Manta Ray is an undeniably impressive creature, reaching about 25 feet in “wingspan” and 5,000 lbs in weight.  They are found in tropical waters, and are very peaceful animals, making them a true favourite among scuba divers.

Manta Ray Mouth

 Manta Ray Feeding

The Manta Ray is a filter feeder, feeding on plankton, small fish and fish larvae which enter through their enormous gills, which look like the grill of a powerful sports car, as they swim through the water.

Manta Ray with Scuba Diver in the Maldives

Manta Ray Behaviour

Manta Rays are known to enjoy scuba divers.  Hanging out and swimming with them, that is!  They are very curious animals and will often appear while scuba diving and hang out with the divers.  At some dive sites in the Maldives, the Manta Rays gather to have their gills cleaned by smaller fish.  At these times, scuba divers hang out and watch the amazing natural phenomenon unfold before their eyes.

Dancing Manta Ray in the Maldives

Manta Ray Dance

Manta Rays are known to “dance” under the water, one of the most impressive sights a scuba diver can behold.  Manta Point in the Maldives is one of the prime locations in the world to watch the Mantas dance.