A biologist protecting Peru’s Giant Manta Rays from being at risk

Americas Now

For anyone who has had the chance to see them, Giant Manta Rays are a magnificent sight. Gliding on wings underwater, they can have a wingspan of up to nine meters across.

Giant manta rays can live up to 40 years and weigh over 2200 kilograms (or 5,000 pounds).

But their numbers have declined by up to a third globally and they are classified as vulnerable.

They’re under threat from getting entangled in fishing nets or being caught for their gill plates, which are used in Chinese medicine.

In the wildlife rich waters of northern Peru, one woman is trying to save them by getting the community involved.

For our Game Changer meet biologist Kerstin Forsberg.