Final Rule to List the Giant Manta Ray as Threatened Under the Endangered Species Act

NOAA Fisheries announces a final rule to list the giant manta ray (Manta birostris) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. We have reviewed the status of the giant manta ray, including efforts being made to protect this species, and considered public comments submitted on the proposed rule as well as new information received since publication of the proposed rule. We have made our final determinations based on the best scientific and commercial data available. At this time, we conclude that critical habitat is not determinable because data sufficient to perform the required analyses are lacking; however, we solicit information on habitat features and areas in U.S. waters that may meet the definition of critical habitat for the giant manta ray.