Photo: New Manta Ray Species Discovered, Expert Says

Email to a Friend << Back to Full Story


What scientists call the manta ray is actually at least two separate species with different behaviors and habitats, an Australian scientist reported in July 2008.

The more commonly known ray is smaller and more easily seen, usually staying near coasts.

Little is known about a second, larger species (above), which avoids contact with humans and appears to have wider migration patterns.

Photograph by Andrea Marshall

MOST VIEWED NEWS

PICTURES: 2012 Doomsday Myths Debunked

2012: Six End-of-the-World Myths Debunked

APOCALYPSE PICTURES: 10 Failed Doomsday Prophecies
NEWS FEEDS    After installing a news reader, click on this icon to download National Geographic News's XML/RSS feed. After installing a news reader, click on this icon to download National Geographic News's XML/RSS feed.

Get our news delivered directly to your desktop—free.
How to Use XML or RSS

ADVERTISEMENT

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC'S PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's National Geographic Photo of the Day

• Today's Photo

• Download as Wallpaper

50 Drives of a Lifetime

National Geographic Traveler has scoured the globe for the world's most beautiful, interesting, and off-beat road trips. Dive in to get drive directions, quizzes, photos, and more.