The Florida Manta Project
Jessica Pate, Research Scientist
Marine Megafauna Foundation
Jessica Pate shares her field research studying the unique manta ray population offshore of Palm Beach and Martin Counties in Florida.
Recorded Webinar:
R/V ANGARI Expeditions:
Select Supplemental Content:
[3D MODEL & VIDEO SHORT] ANGARI, Digital Life & MMF – Giant Manta Ray Skye 3D Model
[REFERENCE] NOAA Fisheries – Species Directory: Giant Manta Ray
[RESOURCE LIBRARY] Marine Megafauna Foundation – The Florida Manta Project
[VIDEO SHORT] WILD FL – Massive manta rays discovered in South Florida!
[VIDEO SHORT] Marine Megafauna Foundation – Urban Manta Nursery Discovered in Florida!
[360 VIDEO] BBC Earth – Dive with Giant Manta Rays in Mexico in 3D 360 | Our Blue Planet VR
[LESSONS] Marine Megafauna Foundation – Manta Rays & Ocean Plastics Lesson Plans for Grades 3-5
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PRESENTER BIO
Jessica Pate is a research scientist with the Marine Megafauna Foundation and founded the Florida Manta Project in 2016. Jessica began her career studying sea turtle populations and behavior, but after observing manta rays swimming next to turtle nesting beaches, she changed her research focus to this never-before-studied manta ray population. The Florida Manta Project is the first dedicated study of manta rays in the state and is collecting data on manta ray ecology, behavior and life history that is crucial to manta ray conservation. In addition to research, the Florida Manta Project raises awareness of marine conservation via our citizen science initiatives, outreach events and educational programs. Jessica holds a Masters degree in Biology from Florida Atlantic University and Bachelors in Environmental Science from the University of North Carolina. She enjoys scuba diving, underwater photography, bird watching, hiking, reading and running.
Ocean Expert Exchange is a live educational webinar series featuring experts in marine science and technology, many of whom have participated in expeditions onboard R/V ANGARI. The 30-minute live events welcome audiences of all ages and include a presentation on the speaker’s area of expertise followed by Q&A with participants. The series is co-hosted by ANGARI Foundation and the University of Florida Thompson Earth Systems Institute’s Scientist in Every Florida School program.