Manta rays are highly intelligent cartilaginous fish whose welfare depends on protecting feeding aggregations and regulating tourism interactions.
Manta ray welfare occupies an unusual position — the economic value of live, tourist-attracting mantas has been a powerful conservation argument. However, tourism itself can cause welfare harm when not appropriately regulated. Boat strikes, diver crowding at cleaning stations, and disruption of feeding behavior all impose welfare costs. Responsible manta tourism codes limit diver numbers, prohibit touching, and maintain safe vessel distances. The gill plate trade causes direct suffering through targeted hunting using methods that are not welfare-considered. Supporting sustainable manta tourism that funds protection rather than exploitation creates aligned incentives for both conservation and welfare.