Manta rays were large, cartilaginous fish that lived in warm ocean waters. They reached widths of up to 20 feet and weighed over a ton, with triangular pectoral fins that resembled wings. Their movement appeared slow from a distance, but each motion carried them far through the water with little resistance. They fed on small oceanic organisms, drawing them in through broad mouths as they glided near the surface or along reef edges.
They lacked scales and teeth, relying instead on speed and awareness to avoid predators. Despite their size, manta rays posed no threat to most Beasts and showed little fear of boats or Mortalkind swimmers. Their intelligence was evident in their ability to navigate long migratory routes and return to familiar waters year after year. In many coastal regions, manta rays were seen as signs of calm seas or good fishing. Sailors recorded them breaching the water during feeding or play, their dark backs flashing against the sun before sinking again into the depths.