Red List update: Manta rays need protection!
10 Nov
The latest update of the IUCN ‘Red List’ of threatened species highlights some sad losses in the natural world, inluding the extinction of a subspecies of the western black rhino. But one other mention caught our attention … especially since it refers to one of the most majestic creatures of the ocean realm – the manta ray.
Manta 'wingspans' can exceed six metres! Image via BlueRidgeKitties, Creative Commons
Both manta ray species (until recently, only one species was known) are now classified as Vulnerable and the IUCN is calling for increased protection of their habitats and better regulation of manta trade. It’s incredibly sad to know that these graceful ocean giants are likely to become endangered unless we take action to protect them.
And just in case you need visual proof of their eerie beauty, here’s a close encounter in the waters off the island of Palau:
Thanks for highlighting the work of the IUCN Shark Specialist Group – you might be interested to see a more detailed press release here – http://www.sfu.ca/pamr/media-releases/2011/majestic-manta-ray-designated-vulnerable-species.html.