First records of the reef manta ray Manta alfredi in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, and its implication for conservation

Researchers have confirmed the presence of the reef manta ray (Manta alfredi) in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, marking its first recorded occurrence in the country. This discovery extends the known range of the species over 600 km eastward from the Sulu Sea to the Visayas region, challenging previous assumptions about its distribution. The study relied on photographic evidence from boat-based surveys and a fishery specimen, despite anecdotal reports from the diving industry and long-standing targeted fisheries for mobulid rays in the Philippines. The findings underscore the need for improved conservation strategies, particularly in regions with active manta ray fisheries, to address potential threats to the species' population.

Rambahiniarison, J. M., Araujo, G., Lamoste, M. J., Labaja, J., Snow, S., & Ponzo, A. (2016). First records of the reef manta ray Manta alfredi in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, and its implication for conservation. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity, 9(4), 489–493. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2016.07.002