Lydia Green is the Founder and Project Director of Manta Watch New Zealand, a charitable trust dedicated to protecting and studying manta rays. With a Marine Biology degree (Hons) and over 15 years of experience in marine science, Lydia has worked in waters across the globe, from Fiji to Mexico, bringing a wealth of expertise to New Zealand's manta ray research.Since establishing Manta Watch Aotearoa New Zealand in 2017, Lydia has become a local leading figure in marine conservation, driving groundbreaking efforts to protect these majestic creatures. Manta rays, known for having the largest brain of any fish, are highly interactive and sociable, making their conservation vital for marine ecosystems. Under Lydia’s leadership, the organisation has focused on innovative research, public education, and conservation initiatives to safeguard manta rays and their habitats.In this episode, Lydia shares her journey from global marine researcher to spearheading manta conservation in New Zealand. We dive deep into Manta Watch’s recent projects and explore the incredible intelligence and behaviour of manta rays, along with the vital role they play in ocean ecosystems.Despite the growing threats to marine life, Lydia’s message is clear: With continued research, education, and global action, we can ensure that manta rays—and our oceans—continue to thrive.In this episode, Lydia discusses:

Her background and passion for marine scienceHer love for manta rays and marine megafaunaManta Ray 101: An overview of their biology and behaviourThe inspiration behind founding Manta Watch NZThe conservation status of manta rays in New Zealand and globallySurprising research findings about oceanic mantas in Aotearoa’s watersThe biggest threats to manta rays and best practice guidelines for protectionThe role of citizen science in manta conservation and the importance of sharing findingsThe search for manta cleaning and feeding stations in New Zealand watersThe upcoming Wellington screening of Manta Watch’s short film, Discovering Aotearoa New Zealand’s Gentle GiantsWays to support Manta Watch NZAdvice for aspiring marine scientists

To view all the links to the websites and documents, visit the show notes on our website.Please support our work and enable us to deliver more content by buying us a coffee or becoming a member of Athletes for Nature.Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky, subscribe to this podcast, and share this episode with your friends and family.