Whale Sharks and Manta Rays are increasingly regarded among the most spectacular Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives. The biggest fish in the world, Whale Sharks, and benevolently large Manta Rays are becoming an ever-increasing draw for tourists seeking memorable scuba-diving experiences.
Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives – The Ocean
The Maldives has a long standing reputation for water-sports; it holds an annual Surfing Championships, and regularly attracts scuba-diving tourists to its clime. It is no secret that the Indian Ocean is one of the main tourist attractions of the Maldives. The Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives is diverse and colourful; with vibrant coral reefs, innumerable underwater species and unquestionable beauty, it’s no wonder that local organisations are doing what they can to conserve the environment and promote sustainable travel.
Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives – Whale Sharks
When contemplating Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives, Whale Sharks often spring to mind; many regard swimming with Whale Sharks in the Indian Ocean a particular highlight of Maldives underwater activities. Maldivian Whale Shark tourism now accounts for approximately half of the global shark ecotourism. Clearly the Maldives is not only a destination for unbeatable relaxation, but for the very best in marine biological pursuits too. Little is known about the behavioural patterns of Whale Sharks, although it is widely accepted that they are completely harmless creatures. They are commonly encountered when scuba diving or snorkelling in the Indian Ocean.
Huge Manta Rays in the Indian Ocean, Maldives
Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives – Manta Rays
Another species of "Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives" that you will likely encounter when scuba diving in the Indian Ocean are the gigantic Manta Rays that glide through the waters beside you. Manta Rays can be around 7 metres wide and are truly majestic to behold. Often described as “gentle giants”, Manta Rays only eat plankton and can live for up to 100 years! Manta Rays have to keep swimming continuously so that there is an ever-flowing amount of water washing over their gills in order for them to respire effectively. With many unique characteristics, Manta Rays are among the most fascinating of Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives.
Conservation of Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives
Local organisations and Luxury Maldives Hotels and Resorts have made movements to protect Whale Sharks and Manta Rays, showing recognition that there is a need to conserve these phenomenal creatures and promote a sustainable travel and tourism industry in the Maldives. New legislation has been passed in the Maldives, prohibiting any capturing or harming of any Manta Ray in the Indian Ocean. Similarly, there is a recovery plan in place from 2005 for Whale Sharks, who have been deemed vulnerable. It looks as though the Maldives are doing exactly the right thing to conserve two of their biggest and most popular marine assets.
If you would like to see Whale Sharks, Manta Rays and other Ocean Wildlife in the Maldives on your next luxury holiday, you can take a look at our featured Maldives Resorts. For further information on scuba-diving, snorkelling and other water activities call one of our specialists who would be glad to help you on your journey to choosing your perfect Luxury Maldives Holiday.
Image credits: David Salvatori + Tanaka Juuyoh (Flickr.com)