#16: Discovering the Giant Devil of the Deep!

🌊 Marine Exploration in Santa Maria: Meet the Giants of the Atlantic 🦈

Dive with me into the deep waters of Santa Maria, a fascinating island in the Azores, to discover its rich marine life and unique volcanic landscapes. Go on an adventure and see some of the Atlantic's most impressive marine creatures up close!

📍 Introduction to Santa Maria :

Santa Maria, in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, is located at the south-eastern end of the Azores archipelago. The island is the oldest and the third smallest inhabited island. Between green hills and steep cliffs, discover a unique ecosystem shaped by volcanic activity.

🐠 Fascinating Marine Encounters:

My adventure is with Manta Maria, a diving centre in Vila do Porto. I set off on an expedition in search of elasmobranchs.

🦈 Elasmobranchs: Predators of the Seas :

Elasmobranchs, including sharks and rays, play a crucial role in the balance of marine ecosystems. Explore their diversity and fascinating adaptation to different environments.

🌟 Meet the Giant Devil of Chile :

In the heart of the ocean, we dive to observe the majestic Mobula tarapacana. These giant rays, with wings over two metres long, offer a unique and hypnotic spectacle. Observe their behaviour and their interaction with the underwater environment.

🔍 Search and Identification Methods :

To better understand these creatures, a photo-identification programme has been set up. Each ray has distinct markings, making it possible to study their demography, ecology and behaviour. Learn how these methods contribute to our knowledge of these fascinating animals.

In this video, you can find out more about..:

00:00 - Santa Maria in the Azores

01:13 - Manta Maria - The Dive Centre

01:50 - Elasmobranchs

02:25 - Meet the Mobula tarapacana