International trade ban for Manta and Devil Rays

In a landmark decision, countries have voted to uplist all ten species of manta and devil rays to Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Appendix I represents the highest level of international protection under CITES, and this historic move prohibits all international commercial trade in manta and devil ray products across every ocean basin. This marks a crucial step toward safeguarding these highly threatened species from extinction. The decision was adopted by consensus–an extraordinary display of global unity and recognition of the urgent need for stronger protections.

Remarkable Biology, Extreme Vulnerability  

Unique among rays, manta and devil rays are pelagic filter-feeders renowned for their specialised anatomy, flattened bodies, and striking behaviours, making them some of the most conspicuous and charismatic marine species. They feed on zooplankton and small fish using the family’s distinctive gill plates, an adaptation found in no other group of rays. 

However, their biology makes them extremely vulnerable. Slow growth, late sexual maturity (around 9 years for males and 15 for females in manta rays), low fecundity (one pup every 2–7 years), and long lifespans (up to 50 years) mean populations cannot withstand even moderate fishing pressures. Their predictable seasonal aggregations, while a spectacular natural phenomenon, further expose them to overfishing.

Gill Plate and Meat Trade - Driving Declines

Manta and devil ray gill plates are sold in parts of Asia as traditional “health tonics,” purported to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting these claims, nor are gill plates referenced in historical texts. Despite this, demand continues to drive unsustainable fisheries.

Recent research led by the Manta Trust has unveiled that global trade has increasingly shifted online, prices have risen, and identifying processed products to species level remains challenging.

These findings indicate increasing non-compliance with CITES listings and highlight the opacity of global trade, making it difficult for authorities to regulate or trace illegal activities effectively.

In addition to being consumed locally in at least 35 countries, manta and devil ray meat is also largely traded internationally, which was largely overlooked until now. Often dried and salted for transport, this meat trade exerts additional pressure on already vulnerable populations. Combined, gill plate and meat demand has contributed significantly to steep population declines, local extinctions, and ongoing overfishing.

Despite existing protections under CITES Appendix II (meaning any international trade must be reported and proved to be sustainable), the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), and national legislation in over 40 countries, populations of all manta and devil ray species have declined by more than 80% – in some cases up to 99% – within just one to two generations. It clearly is not working.

 Recent global research led by The Manta Trust estimates that approximately 265,000 manta and devil rays are caught annually across 92 countries. These numbers are not compatible with these species' survival in the wild.

Next Steps: Turning Protection into Action

While the Appendix I vote is historic, it is only the first step. To ensure these protections translate into real conservation outcomes, countries must follow through with national and regional measures:

• Strengthen National Legislation: Develop or enhance protections where they do not yet exist, particularly in high-mortality range states, including enforcement of retention bans and zero incidental catch quotas.

• Implement Inclusive Management: Promote community- and area-based management strategies to maximise compliance and conservation outcomes.

• Enhance Enforcement and Traceability: Invest in fisheries and trade enforcement, technological solutions, capacity building, and training for enforcement personnel.

“Today marks a turning point for the survival of manta and devil rays,” said Dr Guy Stevens, Chief Executive and Co-Founder of The Manta Trust. “Appendix I protection closes down international trade, reducing demand-driven incentives for overfishing.”

The Manta Trust and its partners stand ready to provide knowledge, expertise, and resources to support these urgent management measures. “Our team will continue to advance research on population estimates and trends, fisheries data, and bycatch mitigation and ensure accurate monitoring of the success of CITES Appendix I implementation,” Dr Stevens added.

Effective communication to consumers and markets is also critical. While the listing stops legal international trade, illegal trade remains a threat. Improving enforcement and traceability, and demand-reduction campaigns will be essential to complement this protection.

“This is a momentous day for manta and devil rays, and the fact there was a consensus in the room shows that not only was the science clear, but that the world’s countries are standing up for the survival of our natural heritage,” said Nuno Barros, Fisheries & Policy Assistant Manager at The Manta Trust.

“While we celebrate this unprecedented step, our work is far from over. The implementation of these protections will require vigilance, commitment, and collaboration across governments, communities, and enforcement agencies worldwide. Together, we can ensure that these ocean giants have a future in our seas,” added Rebecca Carter, Director of Conservation Programmes at The Manta Trust.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES

Contact: Leila Scheltema
Manta Trust Media and Communications Assistant
Email: leila.scheltema@mantatrust.org

Press Release Credits

Written by: Leila Scheltema
Images: Photographer’s credit below images – ensure that credit is given if images are used

About the Manta Trust

The Manta Trust is a UK-registered marine conservation charity dedicated to the research and protection of manta and devil rays and their habitats. Through research, education, and collaboration, the Manta Trust works to ensure a sustainable future for these extraordinary creatures.