A sweeping new global study has revealed a sharp and ongoing decline in the world’s manta and devil ray populations, with scientists warning that without urgent action, these graceful giants of the ocean could vanish from many of their traditional waters within decades.
The report, published by the Manta Trust Research Portal and led by marine biologist Betty Laglbauer, estimates that an average of 264,520 mobulid rays — a group that includes all manta and devil ray species — are killed every year due to fishing activities. Nearly 87 percent of these deaths, the researchers found, come from small-scale or artisanal fishing vessels less than 15 meters in length.
While large industrial fleets contribute to the problem, the study concludes that the greatest threat lies in coastal fisheries where regulation and enforcement remain weak. These small boats, operating close to shore, frequently catch mobulids intentionally or as bycatch, often selling their parts for profit in local or international markets.
High Risk
Among the most affected regions, the study identifies India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Peru, and Myanmar as the world’s top hotspots for mobulid mortality. These countries, the researchers say, account for the highest combined catch rates — both legal and unreported — of manta and devil rays. Other regions, including parts of East Africa, Central America, and the western Pacific, also show concerning mortality trends.
The primary driver of this exploitation, the study reports, is the global gill plate trade. The gill plates of manta and devil rays are dried and sold in certain Asian markets, where they are promoted as ingredients in traditional medicine, despite having no proven health benefits. In addition, local demand for mobulid meat continues to contribute to their decline, particularly in regions where fishing provides one of few sources of income.
“These animals reproduce very slowly — a female gives birth to a single pup after a long gestation period,” said Laglbauer. “That means even a small increase in mortality can have devastating, long-term effects on their populations. Without immediate coordination across nations, we risk losing these species forever.”
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Manta Rays Keystone Species
Manta and devil rays are considered keystone species, meaning they play an essential role in maintaining ocean balance. As filter feeders, they regulate plankton populations and help sustain healthy marine ecosystems. Their disappearance could trigger cascading effects, harming biodiversity and local fisheries that depend on a stable food web.
Despite several international agreements aimed at protecting mobulids — including listings under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) — the study highlights that enforcement gaps remain a critical weakness. Many countries, particularly in developing coastal regions, have laws on paper but limited capacity to monitor or penalize violations.
To prevent further losses, the researchers outline a series of urgent recommendations. They call for all manta and devil ray species to be upgraded to CITES Appendix I, which would ban international trade entirely. They also advocate for stronger national legislation to prohibit targeted fishing, the establishment of no-catch zones in key aggregation areas, and the phase-out of destructive fishing gear, such as drift gillnets.
Equally important, the study urges governments and conservation organizations to involve local fishers and communities in the design and enforcement of protective measures. “Community participation is key,” said Laglbauer. “People living along the coasts are not the enemy — they are part of the solution. Empowering them with education, resources, and incentives can make protection work in the real world.”
The report emphasizes that the next decade will be decisive for the survival of these species. If global fishing mortality remains unchecked, manta and devil ray populations could face irreversible declines.
“The fate of manta and devil rays is tied to the health of the oceans,” the study concludes. “Protecting them means preserving biodiversity, safeguarding livelihoods, and keeping our marine ecosystems alive for future generations.” (Sulung Prasetyo)
