Devils in Distress : The plight of Mobula Rays

Abstract

Mobula rays are at great risk of severe global population declines due to target and incidental fishing pressure. Similar to the closely related and larger manta rays, Mobula generally grow slowly, mature late, and produce few offspring over long lifetimes. This life history strategy, coupled with their migratory nature and inherent schooling behaviour, makes these species extremely vulnerable to overexploitation.