SCUBA Feb 2021 Issue 111 | Page 44

The Manta Trust is one of the most dynamic marine conservation charities around , supporting research and protection for the majestic mobulids . Tam Sawyers sets out the challenges of manta conservation in the modern world .

On the side of the angels

The Manta Trust is one of the most dynamic marine conservation charities around , supporting research and protection for the majestic mobulids . Tam Sawyers sets out the challenges of manta conservation in the modern world .

What is the Manta Trust ? Our goal is a sustainable future for the oceans , where manta rays and their relatives thrive in healthy , diverse marine ecosystems .

A UK-registered charity , the trust was founded in 2011 by Dr Guy Stevens to coordinate global mobulid [ manta and devil ray ] research and conservation efforts . Our team is comprised of a diverse group of researchers , scientists , conservationists , educators and media experts . We all work together to share and promote knowledge and expertise to conserve mobulid rays , their relatives , and their habitats .
By conducting long-term , robust scientific studies , we hope to build the solid foundations on which governments ,
NGOs and conservationists can make informed and effective marine management decisions . With a network of more than 20 projects worldwide , we specialise in collaborating with multiple parties to drive conservation as a collective ; from businesses and governments , to individuals and local communities .
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON HILBOURNE / MANTA TRUST
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