Background

Working alongside Guy Stevens (Project Leader for the Save Our Seas Foundations Manta Project in the Maldives) as a manta ray researcher, I have become increasingly aware of the importance of protecting this incredible species, not only for ecological reasons but also as a resource for sustainable eco-tourism. Recognising that the economic benefits generated through manta viewing far exceed the limited gains available from a manta fishery, the government of the Republic of the Maldives now bans fishing for mantas. Witnessing the Maldives’ success in protecting manta rays while also boosting local tourism revenues has been extremely inspiring, and provides a guidepost for what may be possible elsewhere, in particular Indonesia.

At present, manta rays are not protected in Indonesia, and research on Indonesian manta populations to date has been limited in scope. Growing fishing pressure and habitat disturbances have underlined the critical importance of further research within Indonesia to evaluate the impact of these threats on manta populations, and develop appropriate conservation plans. 

In 2008, Guy Stevens visited Komodo National Park on an exploratory dive expedition to observe manta rays in the area. His initial observations highlighted the need for future research in Indonesian waters. Subsequently, I travelled to Komodo, Bali, and Raja Ampat earlier this year, to assess the possibility of setting up a national research and conservation programme. We are now proceeding with planning and are currently in discussions with international and Indonesian NGOs working on marine conservation in the region, and we look forward to making a meaningful contribution to the understanding and conservation of manta rays in Indonesia.

Aims and Objectives

The specific objectives of this project are:

1. Survey of Indonesia’s manta fishery.
2. Research into the ecology and biology of Indonesia’s manta populations.
3. Local community education, awareness raising and support of alternative, sustainable incomes.
4. Research into mantas current and potential contribution to eco-tourism in Indonesia.