Manta-ray hotspot recognised

The mantas' protected status and the fact that they remain resident throughout the year were among the stand-out attractions of the Micronesian location recognised by marine biologist Dr Andrea Marshall, who highlighted the support of the local operator Yap Divers and the island's Manta Ray Bay Resort.

"Besides the nice conditions, Yap boasts one of the only year-round populations of manta rays, known to be virtually accessible all of the time," said Dr Marshall (pictured), whose achievements have included establishing the fact that the Reef Manta (Manta alfredi) and Pelagic Manta (Manta birostris) are two separate species.

"Many of the [Yap Divers] staff including owner Bill Acker have been diving this island for years, and are extremely knowledgeable about these resident rays.

"They are very conservation oriented and have strict codes of conduct in place for diving with the rays at cleaning stations.

"Yap also remains one of only a handful of places on earth where manta rays are protected by law."

*   www.mantaray.com