How does a Manta ray catch its food?

Manta rays are filter feeders, which means they strain small organisms from the water. They use their large, wing-like pectoral fins to sweep through the water, filtering out plankton, krill, and small fish. Manta rays have a special set of gill rakers that help them to filter out their food from the water. These gill rakers are long, thin filaments that are located on the inside of the manta ray's gills. When water passes over the gills, the gill rakers trap the food particles and prevent them from escaping. Manta rays can also use their cephalic fins to help them direct food into their mouths. These fins are located on the front of the manta ray's head and they can be moved independently of the rest of the body. Manta rays use their cephalic fins to create a funnel that directs food into their mouths.