Dive into marine science topics with the Ocean Expert Exchange series hosted by Scientist in Every Florida School and the ANGARI Foundation.  Join us on these virtual experiences to deepen your knowledge of the marine world through livestream on Zoom and YouTube.

Jessica Pate shares her field research studying the unique manta ray population offshore of Palm Beach and Martin Counties in Florida.

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Topic: The Florida Manta Project

Speaker: Jessica Pate, Research Scientist, Marine Megafauna Foundation

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.

K-12 Resources: Extension Activities

Spring Series Schedule:

Feb. 24 – Billfish Conservation

Apr. 14 – The Florida Manta Project

May 19 – Crewed Submersibles for Scientific Exploration