French Polynesia, consisting of 118 islands across five archipelagos in the South Pacific, is home to two species of manta rays, Mobula alfredi and Mobula birostris. These rays are vital to the local economy, with ecotourism generating over US$3.6 million annually, yet little is known about their population and ecology.

To address this, the French Polynesia Manta Project was launched in 2015 by the Observatoire des Requins de Polynésie (ORP) and the Manta Trust. The project uses photo-identification and citizen science to collect data on manta ray sightings, providing insights into their distribution, population dynamics, and potential threats. While manta rays are protected under local environmental laws, tourism and coastal development pose risks, especially in the Society Islands.

The Marquesas Islands, 1,400 km from Tahiti, offer a unique opportunity to study these rays in a pristine environment, as it is one of the few places where both species coexist. French Polynesia’s vast, remote waters remain largely unexplored, and ongoing research aims to better understand manta ray behavior and ecology. The project also emphasizes community involvement, particularly with dive operators, to increase citizen science participation and promote long-term conservation efforts for these vulnerable species.

If you have seen a manta ray in French Polynesia or anywhere in the world, you can contribute directly to the global research and conservation efforts.

Submit your images and some basic information about the sighting to the MantaBase database, and they will provide feedback about the individual manta you encountered.