Dan Heath, a New York Times bestselling author and the host of "What It's Like to Be...", dives into the world of marine biology with a fascinating guest. They discuss the emotional journey of studying manta rays, including their unique behaviors and intelligence. The conversation highlights innovative research techniques like drone technology and the challenges of conservation efforts. Listeners will also learn about the endangered status of manta rays and the vital role scientists play in advocating for marine life.
Jessica Pate highlights the importance of using drones in her research, enhancing data collection on manta ray behavior while minimizing disturbance.
The podcast reveals common misconceptions about manta rays compared to stingrays, emphasizing the need for conservation awareness and advocacy efforts.
Deep dives
Personal Experiences in Marine Biology
Jessica Pate, a marine biologist focused on manta rays, recounts a pivotal moment early in her career when she received a call about a rare find—an intact dead manta ray. This incident underscored the challenges of studying manta rays, which typically decompose rapidly. Determined to secure valuable data, she intervened to prevent the body from being cut up for samples, demonstrating her commitment to conservation and research. This particular manta ray later became crucial in proving the existence of a new species in the Western Atlantic.
The Distinction Between Manta Rays and Stingrays
Jessica emphasizes the misconceptions surrounding manta rays, distinguishing them from stingrays, which are often confused due to their relatedness. Unlike stingrays, which are bottom dwellers and possess stinging barbs, manta rays are free-swimming and require constant movement to breathe. Manta rays can grow tremendously, with juveniles measuring around six feet and adults reaching over twenty feet across. This size and nature of their behavior contribute to the romanticized image people have of these creatures.
Utilization of Technology in Research
The integration of drones into Jessica's research has revolutionized how she studies manta rays, allowing for more efficient locating and behavior documentation without disturbing their natural habitat. Drones provide a bird's-eye view, enabling Jessica to observe manta ray interactions from above and enhance data collection efforts. Traditional methods, such as getting into the water, are still employed but can now be complemented with aerial technology. This advancement has improved the understanding of manta ray communities significantly.
Conservation Challenges and Advocacy
Jessica discusses the pressing conservation issues affecting manta rays, including threats from fishing, entanglement, and habitat destruction. As their population declines globally, she recognizes the urgent need for scientists to engage in advocacy alongside their research efforts. The data collection projects she's involved in, such as tagging manta rays, aim to provide insights for informed management practices to protect these creatures. With pressures from climate change and human activities on the rise, Jessica feels compelled to raise awareness and promote conservation strategies for manta rays.
Sharing an episode of the podcast “What It’s Like to Be…” from New York Times bestselling business book author Dan Heath. In every episode, Dan interviews someone from a different profession: A cattle rancher, a FBI special agent, a professional Santa Claus. He asks what it’s like to do what they do. What does a couples therapist think when a friend asks for relationship advice? Is a Secret Service Agent supposed to pretend like they’re not there when they’re around the president? What does a hair stylist do when a client asks for a celebrity hairstyle that will never work for them? In the preview you’re about to hear, you’ll meet a marine biologist who studies manta rays. You’ll hear how drones have changed her work, what it’s like to get to know individual rays, and why people have such a romantic image of being a “Marine Biologist.” It’s the perfect show to listen to with your kids – it’s family safe but also gives them a preview of different careers – and the kinds of personalities that fit with the work. You can find more episodes of “What It’s Like to Be…” wherever you get your podcasts.