Project Manta
About this Adventure
Fact File:
Duration: 8 days
Cost: £2,995 USD
Take part in a program to protect the Manta Rays.
Manta rays might get a bad rap sometimes. Sure they’re not the cutest of creatures. But as I’ve often been told when I voice my fear of sharks, and my suspicion that they are evolving to grow legs and attack us on land- every creature in the eco system is necessary for the system’s survival.
I know, I know, we’re sea life experts (and geniuses). Anyway, let us tell you more about the program.
Run by our the excellent team at Earth Watch, the project is about individually recognising manta rays, by the unique patterns (like a fingerprint) found on their underbellies, taking photos of them, and entering it into the Manta Identification Database. Another important aspect of the campaign is to contribute to a study of manta feeding habits, assisting with plankton sampling, analysing plankton tows at dive sites, filming manta rays for on-going study and observing interactions with other species and cleaner fish!
The information gathered is super important, and will be used to contribute to the database, which has recently become the best available source for this terrifyingly vulnerable species. Using the information government agencies, conservation groups and commercial operators will be able to turn to Project Manta to determine how best to protect them.
For more information on this adventure and others please visit Earthwatch . All meals and accommodation will be covered by Earthwatch. This adventure is currently priced at £1,704 for an 8 day trip, although that is the minimum contribution. The next adventures take place in June or September of this year.
