Among all other fishes in the sea, Manta Ray is the one who have the largest brain of all. Sure, you might think of dolphins, but they are mammals—not a fish. This gentle animals has long been drawing the curiosity of divers, largely charmed by its charismatic gesture. Bali is one to premier destination to meet the Manta Ray. All year round, divers flock to the Manta Point Bali at Nusa Penida to meet these gentle giants. Not really much known about the Manta Ray, though, except that they love the warm waters and get cleaned at cleaning stations. Before you go, know these amazing secrets of Manta Ray that you’ve probably never know before!
Why Manta Rays at Manta Point Bali Swim on Circles
If you have watched footage videos of Manta Ray at Manta Point Bali, you will see that they tend to swim in mesmerising circle. Even when a Manta showing interest towards a diver, they will encircle the diver before getting closer and closer. Research suggests that Manta Ray swim in circular motion as a social way of eating. Yes, the seemingly loner Manta Ray is actually a very social animal. While feeding on a group, Manta Ray will get lined up and swim in circles so everyone can switch places and get in the leader position alternately. The front Manta will get the most plankton with its gaping month and filter feeding. Swimming in circles help Manta to spend more time together and closer during their social interaction.
Manta Rays Brunch Together for A Get-Gathering
The circular group swimming between Mantas is basically their version of ‘get-together for a brunch’. This is not something that’s easily seen in Manta Point Bali, but when they do, it’s an amazing sight to see. A get-together behaviour in Manta Ray gets even more intriguing because, as an animal, they are not necessarily a family group. However, Manta Rays seem to particularly enjoy social interactions. Research shows that during intense social interaction, Manta Rays are actively brighten out there white markings on their back. A sign equal to enthusiasm to human.
Read More: What Beginners Need To Know For Their First Scuba Diving Holidays?
They Are Basically A Cuddly Fish with Wings
Due to their giant size, some people still think that Manta Ray eats a lot of small fishes to satisfy their belly. This is so wrong! At Manta Point Nusa Penida, you will clearly see how they wont harm even the smallest fish that come near their flapping wings. Some reef fishes sometimes even hangout inside their gaping mouth! Despite of their size, Manta’s diet basically consist of planktons. Manta Ray also has no stingers—swimming near to them are totally safe.