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Protection for Pacific mantas
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Manta rays are to be protected by law around Yap, in the western Pacific.
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The sanctuary - the western Pacific's first for mantas - will cover 8234 square miles, taking in 16 islands and 145 islets and atolls, out to 12 miles offshore.
The measure has been taken to protect the animal from being targeted by fishermen. Announcing the move, Yap Governor Sebastian Anefal said: 'We need to protect our waters to protect our way of life and ensure that resources are plentiful for our next generations.
'Setting aside all the waters of Yap state to protect the manta ray and its habitat is the first step in this effort.'
Those caught killing or harming mantas, or disturbing their habitats, could face up to six months in jail and/or a $1000 fine.
The initiative builds on the creation of the Micronesian Manta Foundation in summer 2008 by Manta Ray Bay Hotel & Yap Divers. The non-profit organization seeks to protect manta rays and their environment through research, marine conservation and education.
Now, the divers have the weight of the law behind their efforts to protect the creature.
The foundation will continue its work in researching local manta populations through photo ID and other feedback from diving volunteers. Yap Divers has created the Manta Mania project, which invites diving guests to organise dives based on observing and recording manta rays.
A new manta sub-species was recently discovered by a marine biologist, Dr Andrea Marshall, who is working with the foundation to process sightings material and analyse species behaviour in the region.
'I feel that Yap is an excellent candidate for meaningful and ground-breaking research if the local community, international researchers (particularly manta specialists) and the public come together and concentrate their efforts towards some real, tangible goals,' said Dr Marshall.
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