Many tourists are interested in meeting Manta Ray in Bali. You can see them up close by snorkeling with them. The huge wings and unique shape make this marine animal so special. So what types of manta rays can you find in Bali? Learn more in this article.

What are the Types of Manta Rays in Bali?

Although not very different, manta rays come in certain types. Each type can differ in size and shape. As We have experienced, the guide will tell you about anything about manta rays.

They tell you how to swim safely with manta rays. The guides also tell you interesting facts about manta rays including their types. In Bali, at least you can often find giant manta rays and reef manta rays. Here's more about the types of manta rays in Bali:

1. Birostris - Giant / Oceanic Manta Ray

Birostris is the largest species of Manta Ray. You'll have to swim pretty deep to see these fish with 9-meter-wide wings. As they glide, you can enjoy their grace.

The distinctive feature of oceanic manta rays is not only their larger size but also the darker-colored area around their mouths.

2. Alfredi - Reef Manta Ray

Reef manta rays have wings that are not as wide as the previous type, which is about 5 meters. They have horn-like head fins, five pairs of gills on their abdomen, and a large mouth. Although the belly is white, the back of Alfredi manta rays is black. They also have unique black patterns like fingerprints.

Unlike the Birostris manta rays, this species can be found in coastal areas. You can go to the coral reef area to find reef manta rays. They usually dive up to 400 meters. To distinguish them from giant manta rays, you can see the white color in the mouth area.

3. Mobula Manta Ray

Another type of Manta Ray that you might find in Bali is the Mobula. Because of their small size, many people think these are baby manta rays. The tail of this species of manta rays is shorter and the mouth is on the lower part of the body. At least those are some of the types of manta rays that you can find in Bali's ocean.

Are Manta Rays Dangerous for Swimmers?

Snorkeling with manta rays is a favorite activity of tourists in Bali. It is a safe activity as manta rays are harmless to swimmers. When you encounter them, they may approach but tend to avoid contact with the diver.

Even if manta rays approach you, stay patient and calm. Just let them glide freely around you and approach you. Avoid touching them or getting in their way.

What do Manta Rays Eat?

Manta Ray : Facts - In a week, manta rays consume about 11-12% of their body weight. They consume small creatures including krill, planktonic crabs, shrimp, and plankton. Manta rays use their head fins to direct food into their wide mouths.

Their gills filter the water to digest all the food. Manta rays usually swim slowly when searching for food, but they will roll up their head fins at certain times. When their head fins are shaped like a helix, they can move more efficiently because they can reduce drag.

They usually curl their fins when it's not feeding time. Therefore, swimming with manta rays is usually when they are feeding or at the cleaning station.

Where Can You Find Manta Rays In Bali?

Cleaning stations are where you can find manta rays in Bali. In Nusa Penida, Bali, you can visit Manta Point one of the cleaning stations for manta rays. In addition to this location, there are several other locations in Nusa Penida including Manta Bay.

At the cleaning station, manta rays gather to remove parasites. The cleaning fish can get food from this cleaning, creating a symbiosis from this activity. Schedule your visit during the non-breeding season to make your encounter with manta rays more likely.

Ready to swim with manta rays? Enjoy your Manta Ray Snorkeling Bali adventure with Lembongan Trip. Lembongan Trip is prepared to create an unforgettable experience for snorkeling with manta rays. Get complete snorkeling equipment, shuttle service, guide, lunch, and many other facilities.

FAQs

Can you swim with manta rays?

Yes, you can snorkel with these gentle and mysterious giants. Make sure not to grab or disturb the manta rays for safe snorkeling.

What to do if manta rays approach us?

Keep your distance from manta rays at least 3-4 meters. If manta rays come to you, let them come and you can simply stay still.

Why are manta rays special?

These sea creatures are graceful with large wings and often perform acrobatic movements. Manta rays have a complex way of cleaning themselves and eating.

What are some interesting facts about manta rays?

Compared to other fish, manta rays have the largest brain-body ratio. Manta Ray is highly intelligent, with long-term memory and good use of their senses.

Last changed: Jan 22 2025 at 1:21 PM

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