Researchers Document 7 Remora Dives Into Manta Rays’ Cloacae Across 3 Ocean Basins
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Researchers Document 7 Remora Dives Into Manta Rays’ Cloacae Across 3 Ocean Basins
2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Seven documented cases between 2010 and 2025 show remoras diving into manta rays’ cloacae, marking the first recorded evidence of the behavior in manta rays.
All three known manta species and three ocean basins were represented in observations compiled by the Marine Megafauna Foundation, suggesting the behavior may be widespread rather than rare.
The study, published Monday in Ecology and Evolution, says remoras sometimes burrow in until only the tail tip remains visible, apparently using the ray’s body cavity as shelter.
Researchers had previously seen similar behavior in whale sharks, but senior author Catherine Macdonald said the new footage indicates manta rays do not appear to tolerate it well.
Is the remora's extreme hiding tactic a sign of increasing threats in our oceans?
How does a remora's bizarre cloacal hiding spot physically impact its already vulnerable manta ray host?