Differences Between Oceanic Manta Rays and Reef Manta Rays

Do you know that there are two primary species of mantas? The oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris) and the reef manta ray (Mobula alfredi) may look similar to one another, but they actually have several key differences that set them apart from one another.

So what are those differences? Let’s have a look at this article to get a better understanding of these two types of mantas!

What are Manta Rays?

Manta Ray
source: unsplash.com/@sebaspenalambarri

Mantas, mobula rays, and their relatives belong to the family Mobulidae, a group of large, filter-feeding rays. The Mobulidae family can be divided into two: manta rays (Mobula birostris and Mobula alfredi) and mobula rays,  also known as devil rays.

The manta is the largest ray species. They are known for their flat bodies, large pectoral fins that resemble wings, and graceful, gentle nature, which makes them a favorite among divers. 

There are two primary species of mantas, which are the oceanic manta rays and reef manta rays. The oceanic manta, the largest ray in the world, is sometimes called “giant manta ray” due to its size. Knowing the differences between the two can help you identify them easier in the wild.

Manta rays are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, with the giant mantas listed as endangered. The manta population around the world is declining due to various things, including bycatch, overfishing, habitat degradation, and illegal hunting for their gill plates. Because of this, conserving and protecting the mantas are important to ensure their survivability.

Reef Manta Ray vs Oceanic Manta Ray: Knowing the Differences

There are 3 main differences between reef and oceanic mantas, including:

1. Appearance

manta ray during a night dive in komodo island

At a glance, reef mantas and oceanic mantas look similar, with diamond-shaped flat bodies and horns. But look closely and you can find several differences.

First, the oceanic manta usually has darker colors on its dorsal or top side, with distinct white shoulder patches. Their ventral or underside has larger dark spots or blotches. What’s more, their cephalic fins (or head fins) are larger and more angular.

Reef mantas also have similar coloration on their dorsal side, but their white patches are more subtle. In addition, their ventral side tends to have fewer, smaller, and more dispersed spots. They also have smaller and more rounded cephalic fins.

2. Size

The oceanic manta ray is bigger than the reef manta, hence why it’s also dubbed the giant oceanic manta ray. They have an average wingspan of 4 to 7 meters (13 to 23 feet) and can weigh up to 1,600 kg (3,500 pounds). The large size of their body, while majestic to look at, makes giant manta rays more susceptible to getting entangled in fishnets.

The reef mantas are smaller in size, with their wingspan typically reaching 3 to 4.5 meters (10 to 15 feet), and can weigh up to 1,350 kg (3,000 pounds).

3. Behavior

Manta Raja

Aside from their sizes, another easy way to differentiate the two types of mantas, is by looking at their behavior. In fact, the differences between their behaviors are what truly set these two species apart.

The oceanic manta prefers being in the open ocean and deeper waters. As a highly migratory species, they would travel miles across the open ocean, following zooplankton availability (especially plankton blooms) and seasonal environmental changes. 

Additionally, this type of ray often appears alone in the wild, due to their solitary nature and because of their vast habitat. This makes it harder for humans to observe and study them in the wild. However, in some instances, oceanic mantas do gather in groups for feeding or mating. 

On the other hand, the reef manta, just like what the name suggests, has a natural habitat in coral reefs, near the shorelines, and in lagoons, and feeds in shallower waters. While they do migrate, they typically stick within defined regions. 

They are also often seen in groups, particularly when feeding in coastal areas with high plankton density or in cleaning stations. Because they tend to stick in coastal areas, they are easier to find, observe, and study. This type of ray is also often seen leaping out of the water, especially during social interactions. This action is believed to be related to communication or mating displays.

Where to find Manta Rays?

Manta rays live in Indo-Pacific regions, as well as in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. However, several countries are known as the hot spots or the best locations to encounter manta rays.

1. Indonesia

Raja Ampat 64

Indonesia is known for its breathtaking natural landscape and vast, underwater world teeming with life. It’s also famous for being home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, whales, and mantas, making it a favored destination for divers from all around the world.

One of the best places in Indonesia to dive with manta rays is Raja Ampat, which is located in the Coral Triangle. Famous for its rich biodiversity, the mantas are frequently sighted in Raja Ampat, particularly in areas like Manta Sandy and Manta Ridge.

Another great place to spot the manta rays in Indonesia is the Komodo National Park, particularly in Manta Point, where both oceanic and reef manta rays are often observed feeding and cleaning.

2. Hawaii, USA

Hawaii, particularly Kona, which is located on the Big Island, is hailed as one of the best places in the world to find manta rays. This is especially because Kona offers divers a unique manta ray night dive experience. 

During this night dive, powerful underwater lights are used to attract plankton, which in turn, attracts the manta rays. Divers will get to experience a close encounter with the mantas and observe as these gentle animals perform their feeding dance under the lights.

3. The Philippines

One of the Philippines shores

The Philippines is also home to some great manta ray sighting spots, particularly the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a protected marine sanctuary with healthy coral reefs and frequent sightings of the two types of mantas, especially from March to June, which is also known as the plankton-rich season.

4. Maldives

Located southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the Maldives is another top manta ray viewing site, with Hanifaru Bay being the most popular spot. Hanifaru Bay is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, where seasonal aggregations of reef manta rays occur. This phenomenon can be experienced during plankton blooms between May and November.

5. Palau, Micronesia

The renowned natural bridge rock formation on an island, encircled by vivid blue waters alongside other neighbouring rock islands.

A bit similar to Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Palau is located near the Coral Triangle, and it is one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world. Its waters are also rich in plankton. German Channel is the best spot to encounter manta rays in Palau, as these rays often come to cleaning stations in this area and can often be seen feeding in large groups.

if you are planning to dive with manta, take a look at our ultimate guide to dive with manta rays and take a look at our 10 Best Places And Times to Scuba Dive with Manta Rays for more recommendations.

Book Your Next Diving Trip with Solitude World!

Once you’ve known the differences between reef manta rays and oceanic manta rays, it’s time for you to book a diving trip with Solitude World Liveaboard & Resorts! Our liveaboards can take you to the best manta ray diving spots in Indonesia, Palau, and the Philippines. We also have PADI-certified experts who can guide you on your journey and make sure that you have a responsible and positive interaction with the mantas and other sea creatures.

We also offer clean comfortable rooms and warm, freshly-cooked meals that will welcome you after you’re done with your dive. Enjoy a home away from home during your stay. 

What are you waiting for? Book your next diving adventure with us here today!