Devil ray resources in Bohol Sea, Philippines

Abstract

A rapid resource assessment (RRA) of manta rays also known as devil rays or Mobulas, was conducted in Bohol Sea, Philippines from March to May 2010. Comparing with the catch data in a 2002-2003, results of the RRA showed that there was no decline in catch of the Mobulas amidst a maintained Mobula fishing effort. This suggested that the species is not yet overfished apparently because Mobula fishing is seasonal in the fishing area. Of the recorded Mobulas caught, 11% were identified to be immature based on the disc width. In addition, with a newly-born Mobula thrustoni among the catch in Bohol Sea, this fishing area could be a spawning ground for this Mobula species.