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Project Manta Ray | Oceans Research
Project Manta Ray aims to investigate divers´ impact on cleaning stations utilised by Manta Rays. Diving tourism is a growing industry, and is highly dependent on the healthy condition of its natural resource base.
There is, however, strong concern that intensive use of marine ecosystem for SCUBA diving has resulted in a loss of biodiversity and the non-sustainability of eco-tourism sectors. In Mozambique this concern is real, particularly in the marine mega fauna diving industry, such as with manta rays, which are main marine attractions to southern Mozambique. Project manta ray aims to address shortfalls in the current understanding of the impact that commercial eco-tourism has on the integrity of marine ecosystems.
Zavora Marine Lab will only conduct research with required permit approval from relevant Mozambican authorities.
The project is headed by, Brazilian marine scientist Yara Tibirica at Zavora Marine Lab, Mozambique.
Project Manta Ray:
Population Research Projects
Population Dynamics
This project aims to use underwater photography and parallel lasers to establish population estimates and composition data on manta rays utilising Zavora Bay (collaborative project with Manta and Whale shark research centre).
Project Manta Ray:
Behavioural Research Projects
No Behavioural research projects active at present
Project Manta Ray:
Physiological Research Projects
No physiological research projects active at present
Project Manta Ray:
Ecological Research Projects
Reef Monitoring
This project aims to use standardised coral reef monitoring protocols to monitor the long term impact of diver presence on reef structure.
Project Manta Ray:
Socioeconomics Research Projects
Cleaning station
Use of under water diver surveys to establish the impact of divers on manta ray cleaning station benthic communities and health.
Project Manta Ray:
Past Research Projects
No past research projects.