- 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) Turtle nesting
B) Coral reefs
C) Manta rays
D) Shark diving
- 2. When is the peak season for manta rays at Hanifaru Bay?
A) December to February
B) May to November
C) January to March
D) April to July
- 3. What role does plankton play in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Indicator of water quality
B) Habitat for fish
C) Breeding ground for turtles
D) Food source for manta rays
- 4. Which month marks the start of the manta ray season in Hanifaru Bay?
A) April
B) March
C) June
D) May
- 5. What type of tours are popular at Hanifaru Bay during the manta ray season?
A) Snorkeling tours
B) Surfing camps
C) Private yacht charters
D) Fishing tours
- 6. What should tourists avoid doing when interacting with manta rays?
A) Watching silently
B) Swimming near them
C) Taking photos
D) Touching them
- 7. What social behavior do manta rays exhibit?
A) Social groups
B) Aggressive behavior
C) Nocturnal feeding
D) Solitary living
- 8. How do manta rays feed in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Filter feeding
B) Suction feeding
C) Predatory feeding
D) Bite feeding
- 9. Why is Hanifaru Bay a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?
A) High pollution levels
B) Lack of species
C) Famous for beaches only
D) Rich biodiversity
- 10. What should divers use to avoid disturbing the manta rays?
A) Flashing lights
B) Heavy weights
C) Neutral buoyancy
D) Fast movements
- 11. What is a key characteristic of feeding manta rays?
A) They chase fish
B) They leap out of the water
C) They lay on the ocean floor
D) They swim with their mouths open
- 12. Which country is Hanifaru Bay located in?
A) Maldives
B) Thailand
C) Sri Lanka
D) Indonesia
- 13. How can visitors access Hanifaru Bay?
A) By boat
B) By walking
C) By bus
D) By airplane
- 14. What is the IUCN status of manta rays?
A) Critical
B) Extinct
C) Least concern
D) Vulnerable
- 15. What other marine life can be observed in Hanifaru Bay?
A) Reef sharks
B) Freshwater fish
C) Walruses
D) Sea lions
- 16. 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
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