manta ray

/ˌmæntə reɪ/

/ˈmænta reɪ/

Other forms: manta rays

Definitions of manta ray

1. noun

   extremely large pelagic tropical ray that feeds on plankton and small fishes; usually harmless but its size make it dangerous if harpooned
   synonyms: devilfish, manta

   types:

   Atlantic manta, Manta birostris

   largest manta (to 22 feet across wings); found worldwide but common in Gulf of Mexico and along southern coasts of United States; primarily oceanic

   Mobula hypostoma, devil ray

   small manta (to 4 feet) that travels in schools

   type of:

   ray

   cartilaginous fishes having horizontally flattened bodies and enlarged winglike pectoral fins with gills on the underside; most swim by moving the pectoral fins