Are humans harming the longevity of a manta ray?

Yes, human activities are harming the longevity of manta rays. Overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution significantly threaten their populations, while practices like bycatch in commercial fishing inadvertently kill many manta rays. Additionally, the demand for manta ray gill plates in traditional medicine and as a delicacy further exacerbates their vulnerability. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival and longevity.