The Discovery of Mobula yarae
For over 15 years, Dr. Andrea Marshall, co-founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF), suspected she had seen a previously unknown species of manta ray in the Atlantic Ocean. While it resembled known manta species, there were distinct differences. Thanks to physical examinations and genetic analysis, her intuition has been validated with the identification of Mobula yarae, a newly recognized manta ray species that inhabits the Western Atlantic. The species is named after Yara, a water spirit from Indigenous Brazilian mythology.
From Hypothesis to Confirmation
In a past Facebook post, Marshall reflected on her groundbreaking work: “In 2009, it was one of the largest species discoveries of the last 50 years. It was huge for me as an early career scientist and such a privilege to go through every step of the process. Did I ever expect to do something like that again? Hell no. Not a chance.”
Marshall initially split what was thought to be a single manta species into two distinct species in 2009. A year later, while diving in the warm waters off Mexico, she encountered what she firmly believed was a third species. “To be honest, I was not sure if anyone would believe me. But there was never a doubt in my mind,” she stated. However, despite her confidence, Marshall faced significant challenges due to her medical issues, including a severe brain aneurysm and stroke in early 2024.
Collaborative Efforts in Research
Following her medical leave, an international research team, led by Brazilian researcher Nayara Bucair from the University of São Paulo, carried forward the project using Marshall’s previous data and observations. This work dates back to 2009 and involved multiple researchers, including Ana Paula, who documented footage of the unique manta rays.
Evidence of the new species steadily accumulated over the years, culminating in a significant find in 2017. A juvenile manta ray washed up in Florida, and Jessica Pate, a young researcher, answered the call to collect it with guidance from Marshall. This specimen later became the holotype for Mobula yarae.
Research Findings
The findings were published in the journal Environmental Biology of Fishes, where the team outlined the key characteristics distinguishing Mobula yarae from its relatives. Key identification features include:
- Star-shaped dermal denticles on the skin that do not split at the tips
- A distinct V-shaped patch located behind the gills on the dorsal side
- Unique color patterns on the belly and a residual tail spine in a caudal bulb
- Between 9 and 13 rows of teeth, fewer than other known manta species
Genetic analysis further confirmed that Mobula yarae represents its own distinct lineage. Researchers pointed out, “It’s a classic case where genetic analysis was needed to confirm what careful morphological observation suggested,” according to Pate. Understanding such subtle differences requires specialized expertise.
The Importance of Conservation
As exciting as the discovery is, it comes with concerns. Despite its recent identification, Mobula yarae is already facing threats. This species has primarily been observed in Atlantic waters near oceanic islands and coastal areas, which are rapidly deteriorating due to pollution, habitat destruction, and increasing boat traffic.
Additionally, Mobula yarae has already suffered from bycatch in fisheries. This situational vulnerability is common among manta and devil rays, as they are known to reproduce infrequently and rely on specific habitats – making their populations prone to decline.
A Step Towards Protection
With the formal recognition of Mobula yarae, there is a greater opportunity for it to be included in conservation efforts. Official species descriptions often pave the way for legal protections, like fishing regulations and habitat conservation strategies. “We’ve added one more ray to the tree of life, but whether it remains part of our living oceans will depend on what we do next,” concludes Marshall’s observations on the future of this newly discovered species.
