Devil rays, also known as mobula rays, are closely related to the more iconic and better known manta rays. In recent decades, all these species have been facing increasing threats driven by unsustainable target and bycatch fisheries, seeking to supply the international demand for their dried gill plates in Chinese medicine. Growing awareness and concerns for the survival of these species resulted in some level of international protection. However, further work is required. Daniel Fernando tells us about his research efforts to better understand these animals and about his work to promote their conservation. Image: Atlantic Mobula Lisbon (CC Wikimedia Commons)
Daniel is currently working towards a PhD at Linnaeus University studying the biology and ecology of manta and mobula rays in the Indian Ocean. At Blue Resources Trust he helps obtain funds, oversee project operations, leads the elasmobranch research, and develops and implements national and international policy to better manage fisheries. He has also been appointed as an Adviser to the Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife of Sri Lanka and represents the Government at international conventions such as CITES and CMS. Alongside this, in his role as an Associate Director of The Manta Trust, he is responsible for global mobulid fisheries projects. His work has been highlighted in international documentaries broadcast on ITV (UK) and Al Jazeera English.