Petition to list the Giant Manta Ray (Manta birostris), Reef Manta Ray (Manta alfredi) and Caribbean Manta Ray (Manta c.f. birostris) as an endangered, or alternatively as a threatened, species pursuant to the Endangered Species Act and for the Concurrent Designation of Critical Habitat

Abstract

Petitioner Defenders of Wildlife (“Defenders”) is dedicated to the protection of all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With more than 1.2 million members, supporters, and activists, Defenders is a leading advocate for the protection of threatened and endangered species. Defenders’ 2013-2023 Strategic Plan identifies sharks and other elasmobranchs as one of several categories of key species whose conservation is a priority for our organization’s work