Final answer:
Commercial fishing threatens marine biodiversity, leading to population declines in species such as manta rays. Certain jurisdictions make it illegal to harm manta rays as part of efforts to protect the ocean's ecological balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question "Is it illegal to harm manta rays?" touches on the issue of conservation and the effects of commercial fishing on marine biodiversity. Commercial fishing activities significantly threaten marine ecosystems by overexploiting marine species such as sharks, tunas, and manta rays. These activities are driven by global demand for products like shark fins, and they have led to dramatic declines in populations of large marine vertebrates. In some places, regulations are in place to protect certain species, including manta rays, making it illegal to cause them harm. Efforts to protect marine life often involve curtailing harmful fishing practices, promoting sustainable fishing, and raising awareness about the dangers of marine pollution, such as entanglement in marine trash. Protecting manta rays and other vulnerable species is crucial for preserving the health of our oceans and the complex food webs they support.