The Science Life Animals

This marine biologist is on a mission to save endangered rays

Figuring out where the enigmatic creatures mate and migrate is key to their conservation

In this underwater photo, Marine biologist Jessica Pate swims beside a large oceanic manta ray.

Marine biologist Jessica Pate swims alongside an oceanic manta ray. Pate and colleagues recently discovered the first known manta ray nursery in Florida waters — and the third known nursery globally.

Bryant Turffs

By Brianna Randall

The first time Jessica Pate swam beside a manta ray off Florida’s southern coast, the 8-foot-wide fish flipped belly-up and slowed to watch her.