RESEARCH
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Manta identification project and long-term population study of Kona rays since 1991.
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Over 200 individual manta rays in Kona with new mantas identified regularly.
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Continuous manta reports since 1991 with over 10,000 individual manta sightings.
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Assisted with manta tracking expedition in 2002 that resulted in data on manta movement patterns, habitat use, and foraging ecology.
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Started laser measurement and growth study on Kona manta rays in 2008.
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Determined economic value of manta rays in 2002, 2007, and 2013.
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Fund manta scientists with research efforts worldwide.
EDUCATION
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Provide education programs about manta rays and the marine environment to school children (K-8th) since 2002.
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Regularly conduct informative presentations at community events.
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Present at academic conferences on scientific and conservation topics.
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Collaborated with the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) to create manta ray educaitonal flip charts for tour guides.
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Continue to create educational media aobut manta rays.
CONSERVATION
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Distribute manta ray tour participant guidelines from 2002 to present day.
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Supplied data for IUCN listing of manta rays as a vulnerable species in 2005.
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Initiated legislation to protect manta rays in the State of Hawaii. Act 092(09) prohibits the killing or capturing of mantas in State waters.
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Supplied economic data to Manta Ray of Hope project in 2011 and other studies.
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Supported manta awareness campaigns for CITES in 2013 culminating in increased worldwide protection.
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Facilitated meetings and drafted manta tour operator standards in Hawaii in 2013.
FUTURE PROJECTS
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Further scientific research in manta sensory/cognitive abilities, coloration, growth, and injuries.
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Implement the Manta Rescue Project
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Continue economic impact study of manta ray tourism.
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Deliver online educational programs about manta rays.
SPONSORS
