Scientists Document Sharks Scraping Against Manta Rays. But What Does It Mean?

In Mexico’s Revillagigedo National Park, Galápagos sharks were filmed rubbing their heads, gills, and sides against giant manta rays.

Researchers think the behavior may help sharks remove parasites, functioning as a kind of cleaning strategy.

Similar rubbing behavior has been reported in other regions and species, suggesting it may be an adaptive trait.

The sightings could also point to shifts in marine ecosystems, including pressure on traditional cleaner species.