Wallacea Weekly Dive Log #4: Seeking the Black Manta at Pele’s Playground

The Raja Ampat archipelago is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity with more than 75% of the coral species living beneath it’s surface, and an extremely important fish biomass including pelagic species and top predators.  

On our recent voyage aboard Ambai, we headed to the remote south with one specific goal: to check a cleaning Manta station in the area of Pelee island. 

Exploring the Remote Reefs of South Misool 

Our mission took us toward Misool and Pelee Island, an area which is a bit off the beaten tracks, where we heard there is a manta cleaning station.

It was incredible to witness the symbiotic relationship in action. The mantas remained still while wrasses and blacktail snappers busily worked to help with the removal of parasites from their dark wings.  

Unforgettable Memories Beneath the Waves