The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) is an international treaty that aims to encourage nations to work together to conserve threatened species that migrate across political boundaries.
The CMS is the only global convention specializing in the conservation of migratory species, their habitats and migration routes.
Currently, 116 countries are signatories to the convention, including manta hotspots such as the Philippines, Moçambique and Ecuador.
The inclusion of the giant manta ray (Manta birostris) in the CMS obligates member countries to protect mantas and their habitats. This tremendous achievement will extend the impact of those countries that already protect mantas through their national laws, including Hawaii, the Maldives, the Philippines and Ecuador.
Importantly, the giant manta has been added to both Appendix I and Appendix II of the CMS. Migratory species threatened with extinction are listed in Appendix I of the Convention. Migratory species that need or would significantly benefit from international cooperation are listed in Appendix II of the Convention.
This achievement will spearhead international efforts to protect this magnificent species, providing a framework for cooperation between nations.
You can find out more about the Convention on Migratory Species here.
Share you opinions in the comments below. Are international conventions a step in the right direction for manta conservation? Or is this decision too broad to be effective? Are the incentives or the penalties sufficient to encourage member countries to take action? And how will the CMS affect manta conservation efforts in your area? Let us know below.
