Projects in the Americas
The Hawaiian Manta Project
What’s this project about?
The Hawaiian Manta Project is a collaborative project with a mission to unravel the mystery of the oceanic manta ray (aka "pelagic" or "giant" manta ray) around the Big Island of Hawaii.
These magnificent creatures are different from the reef mantas commonly seen during night dives and snorkels in Kona. Oceanic mantas are elusive ocean travelers that occasionally visit Big Island waters, but their reasons for being here and their migration patterns remain unknown.
This project is a collaboration between the Manta Pacific Research Foundation (MPRF), the Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF), and Citizen Scientists like you. By joining forces, we can collectively uncover the mysteries surrounding these enigmatic giants and contribute to the protection of this endangered species.
We need you.
Report Your Sightings
You can make a difference in protecting the oceanic manta ray by reporting any sightings.
If you're unsure whether you've seen a reef manta or an oceanic manta, check out the information below on differentiating the two species or simply submit a report, and we can help.
How to Report:
To report your past or current sighting (with or without photos), please choose one of the following options:
MPRF Mobile App: (insert app download link)
MPRF Online Form
Information to Include:
Note “Oceanic Manta” and approx. size
Date & time
Location (GPS if available)
Behavior, scars, or identifying marks
Photos (if available)
Contact info for follow-up
Diving with Manta Rays:
A Guide to Responsible Encounters
As part of our commitment to the conservation and protection of manta rays, we want to ensure that interactions with these gentle giants are conducted in a responsible and respectful manner. Although this educational video was initially created for the Florida Manta Project, the guidelines presented are equally applicable to encounters with manta rays in Hawaii.
In this video, you'll learn the dos and don'ts of diving or snorkeling with manta rays, ensuring that you can enjoy their majestic presence without causing them any harm or disturbance. By following these best practices, we can all contribute to a sustainable future for these fascinating creatures.
Project Leaders
Jessica Pate
Research Scientist & Country Manager
Jessica started the Florida Manta Project in 2016. Her research aims to fill knowledge gaps in the biology and ecology of Florida mantas, while raising awareness of manta ray conservation.
Dr. Andrea Marshall
Principal Scientist
Collaborators
Support this project
Your support of the Hawaiian Manta Project allows our small team to continue our pioneering research and conservation efforts of Hawaiian manta rays.
MMF is a registered 501(c)(3) tax-deductible non-profit conservation organization in the USA.
