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MANTA CATALOG - M4, M7, M9
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 M4, M7, and M9, 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.

M4 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M4
Manta M4
June 1995
Flower Garden Banks
Photo Credit: Ferrell Cruise

Belly view of manta ray M4 with diver partially visible above.
Manta M4
June 1995
Flower Garden Banks
Photo Credit: Ferrell Cruise

Close up belly view of manta ray M4
Manta M4
June 1995
Flower Garden Banks
Photo Credit: Ferrell Cruise

Close up belly view of manta ray M4
Manta M4
June 1995
Flower Garden Banks
Photo Credit: Ferrell Cruise

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M7 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M7 swimming toward the photographer
Manta M7
1990
East Flower Garden Bank
Photo credit: John Embesi/TPWD

Belly view of manta ray M7 swimming to the right
Manta M7
August 1993
East Flower Garden Bank

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M9 - SPOTS

Belly view of manta ray M9 swimming to the right
Manta M9
12/9/1997
East Flower Garden Bank
Photo Credit: Gittings/FGBNMS

Belly view of manta ray M9 swimming away from photographer
Manta M9
12/9/1997
East Flower Garden Bank
Photo Credit: Gittings/FGBNMS

Digiatl enhancement of spot pattern on manta ray M9
Manta M9
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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