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MANTA CATALOG - M12, M15, M16

The Manta Catalog consists of a series of images and sighting information for individual mantas that have been seen at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary or nearby banks.

Each manta ray has been placed in a category depending on its unique underbelly markings. However, some manta rays' markings might be interpreted differently by different people, so be sure to look at all of the preview images to find the manta you are trying to identify.

This page includes additional images of mantas M12, M15, and M16, including larger versions of the images from the Spots preview page. These mantas have spot-like markings on their undersides.

Sightings and additional observations about these animals are also noted on this page.

M12 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M12 swimming to the right
Manta M12
1988
Photo Credit: Jesse Cancelmo

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M15 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M15 swimming away from photographer.  A fish is swimming along behind the manta.
Manta M15
2/28/2000
West Flower Garden Bank, Buoy #1
Photo credit: Kip Evans

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M16 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M16 swimming to the left
Manta M16
2/29/2000
East Flower Garden Bank, Buoy #5
Photo Credit: Kip Evans

Digital enhancement of spot pattern on manta ray M16
Manta M16
Digital enhancement of spot pattern

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Manta Catalog Preview Images

Additional manta ray images can be viewed at the following links:

  • Spots - individual has spot-like markings
  • Squares - individual has square-like blotches
  • Spots and Squares - individual has a combinationof spots and square patterns
  • Mostly Black - individual is predominantly black/gray with few other markings
  • Mostly White - individual is predominantly white with few other markings
  • Tagged - individual possesses a tag on its dorsal side

For more information on identifiying manta rays, please visit the Manta Catalog page.

For information on manta ray research that is taking place in the sanctuary, please visit the Manta Ray Research page.

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Juvenile blue tang (fish).  Bright yellow body with irridescent blue marking around eye and at top edge of dorsal fin.
   
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