Hanifaru Bay (manta ray season)
- 1. Hanifaru Bay, located in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is particularly famous for its seasonal congregation of manta rays, which draw marine life enthusiasts and divers from around the globe. Each year, from May to November, the waters of Hanifaru Bay transform into a vibrant feeding ground as hundreds of majestic manta rays gather to feast on the abundant plankton that thrives during this period. The phenomenon occurs due to the interplay of currents and seasonal monsoons, which stir up nutrients in the water. Visitors to Hanifaru Bay are often treated to spectacular underwater displays as these gentle giants glide gracefully through the water, exhibiting their unique and captivating behaviors. The experience of swimming alongside manta rays in their natural habitat is both humbling and exhilarating, offering a rare glimpse into the underwater world. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these magnificent creatures and the delicate ecosystem of Hanifaru Bay, ensuring that the area remains a sanctuary for marine life while fostering awareness about the importance of preserving our oceans. This seasonal event not only showcases the incredible biodiversity of the Maldives but also highlights the necessity of sustainable tourism practices that allow future generations to enjoy the awe-inspiring wonders of the sea.
What is Hanifaru Bay primarily known for?
A) Manta rays
B) Coral reefs
C) Shark diving
D) Turtle nesting
- 2. When is the peak season for manta rays at Hanifaru Bay?
A) April to July
B) December to February
C) May to November
D) January to March
- 3. What role does plankton play in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Indicator of water quality
B) Breeding ground for turtles
C) Habitat for fish
D) Food source for manta rays
- 4. Which month marks the start of the manta ray season in Hanifaru Bay?
A) May
B) March
C) June
D) April
- 5. What type of tours are popular at Hanifaru Bay during the manta ray season?
A) Private yacht charters
B) Snorkeling tours
C) Fishing tours
D) Surfing camps
- 6. What should tourists avoid doing when interacting with manta rays?
A) Swimming near them
B) Touching them
C) Taking photos
D) Watching silently
- 7. How long do manta rays live?
A) Up to 50 years
B) Up to 35 years
C) Up to 25 years
D) Up to 15 years
- 8. What other marine life can be observed in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Sea lions
B) Freshwater fish
C) Reef sharks
D) Walruses
- 9. What should divers use to avoid disturbing the manta rays?
A) Neutral buoyancy
B) Flashing lights
C) Fast movements
D) Heavy weights
- 10. Why is Hanifaru Bay a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?
A) Rich biodiversity
B) Famous for beaches only
C) High pollution levels
D) Lack of species
- 11. How do manta rays feed in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Bite feeding
B) Filter feeding
C) Predatory feeding
D) Suction feeding
- 12. What is a key characteristic of feeding manta rays?
A) They leap out of the water
B) They lay on the ocean floor
C) They chase fish
D) They swim with their mouths open
- 13. What is the IUCN status of manta rays?
A) Extinct
B) Critical
C) Least concern
D) Vulnerable
- 14. Which country is Hanifaru Bay located in?
A) Thailand
B) Sri Lanka
C) Maldives
D) Indonesia
- 15. How can visitors access Hanifaru Bay?
A) By walking
B) By boat
C) By bus
D) By airplane
- 16. What social behavior do manta rays exhibit?
A) Solitary living
B) Nocturnal feeding
C) Aggressive behavior
D) Social groups
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