Exploring the lives of manta rays in the Caribbean and the people working to protect them
‘Mantas of the Mexican Caribbean’ is a short documentary highlighting over a decade of research into manta rays in the Mexican Caribbean.
Led by the Manta Caribbean Project, the film, created by Jasmine Corbett, explores efforts to identify and protect manta rays, including the proposed Mobula cf. birostris – more commonly known as the Caribbean manta ray. The project has helped to identify more than 700 individual manta rays, tracking them to note behaviours, feeding and their habitat.
Further research is needed on the Mobula cf. birostris before it can be officially declared a distinct species. While the rays’ appearance is very similar to that of the oceanic manta ray, the proposed species appears to inhabit a niche more similar to that of the reef manta ray.
Through striking underwater footage, the film showcases how science, conservation, and community come together to protect one of the ocean’s most iconic species.
‘Mantas of the Mexican Caribbean’ has been entered into the Individual Category of the Better World Video Awards 2025. Find out how you can enter and win a fabulous trip to Thailand by going to Better World Video Awards.
