As part of the Worldwide Manta Sightings Program, a centralized global database has been created to help scientists learn more about manta populations, animal behavior, habitat preferences, residency patterns and their long-range migration behavior. The data and images collected are available for scientific investigation by participating scientists via a secured Internet connection. The Manta Global Database provides a resource for scientific investigations and an informational source for public awareness activities. Data collected is also used to identify individual mantas that may migrate long distances and periods of time. The Global Database is accessible using specially designed interactive real-time software on the Internet. Routine field observations and images of mantas from our Research Affiliates, photographers and sport divers can be frequently entered. The global database identifies individual mantas, repeated sightings, group sightings and contains an extensive image collection. This provides scientists with globally cross-referenced information that is easily accessiable over the Internet.

This centralized global repository of information about mantas will become invaluable to all researchers. Changes in local and global conditions can be monitored and can serve as a measure of the success of protection and conservation programs. It will also provide an important resource for educational and public awareness initiatives. The Manta Research Affiliates Program consists of participating scientists, dive operators, photographers and conservation groups around the world. These individuals and groups contribute routinely to the Manta Global Database. Mantas from more than 125 locations around the world have been sighted.

We are seeking contributors from around the world to add information and images from recent and historical sightings. If you are interested in supporting this important research contact Robert Aston at robert@mantas.org. Sighting reports are also available on-line.