marine ecology consulting

Until the revision of the genus Manta in 2009, when a second manta species (Manta alfredi) was resurrected based on morphological and meristic data, all available records in Fijian literature were recorded as Manta birostris, or commonly as the oceanic manta rays. Subsequently, documented sightings were recorded as M. alfredi.

Another reclassification of the genus Manta was undertaken in 2018 when both manta ray species (Manta alfredi, Manta birostris)
were moved to Mobula based on phylogenetic analysis.

Here, we present the first unequivocal evidence of oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) occurrence in Fijian waters.

Luke Gordon & Tom Vierus

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First photographic evidence of oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) at two locations in FijiRead More »

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems are seriously threatened by changing conditions in the ocean.

Although many factors are implicated, climate change has emerged as a dominant and rapidly growing threat.

Developing a long-term strategic plan for the conservation of coral reefs is urgently needed yet is complicated by significant uncertainty associated with climate change impacts on coral reef ecosystems.

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50 Reefs Project: Fiji is recognised as having 2 of 50 reefs across the globe identified with the potential to resist and adjust to climate changeRead More »