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Image Library

MANTA CATALOG - M26, M35, M42
The Manta Catalog consists of a series of images and sighting information for individual mantas that have been seen at the 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 M26, M35, and M42, including larger versions of the images from the Spots and Squares preview page. These mantas have both spots and square-like blotches on their undersides.

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

M26 - SPOTS & SQUARES

This manta was named Spirit because of the ghostly image on her belly as well as the "spiritual and mystical quality" of mantas. Her name was selected from several entries in a Name That Manta contest.

Belly view of manta ray M26 swimming to the left. A remora is attached to the ray beneath the right eye.
Manta M26 (Spirit)
7/28/2003
East Flower Garden Bank, Buoy #4
Photo credit: J. Wiseman and S. Bernhardt

Belly view of manta ray M26 swimming to the left. A remora is attached to the ray beneath each eye.
Manta M26 (Spirit)
8/8/2004
East Flower Garden Bank
Note: Observed during coral spawning
Photo credit: Andy Felth

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M35 - SPOTS & SQUARES

Belly view of manta ray M35 swimming to the right just above the reef.
Manta M35
6/12/2007
East Flower Garden Bank, Buoy #2
Note: This manta was seen with M28
Photo credit: Hickerson/FGBNMS


Manta M35
Digital Enhancement of belly markings

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M42 - SPOTS & SQUARES


Manta M42
1982
West Flower Garden Bank
Photo credit: Dick Zingula

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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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