Manta
Manta birostris
(Walbaum, 1792)
Description:
Body dorso-ventrally flattened, with greatly enlarged pectoral fins, which give them a disc-like shape. Tips of fins pointed. Back dark, often with whitish patches and occasionally, other areas. Underside white, often with grayish areas and blotches. Head broad with long head fins. Large mouth on leading edge of the head. Tail whip-like, usually without spines.
Size from wing-tip to wing-tip over 6.5 meter.
Habitat:
Mainly in nearshore waters, near coral and rocky reefs, sometimes found over deep water. Occurs singly or in loose aggregations. Mainly plankton feeders, but may feed on small and moderate-sized fishes as well.
Distribution:
Uncommon Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean.