This article that ran in the February issue of Diver, a scuba diving magazine in Britain, tells the story of how University of Guam alumna Julie Hartup came to be known as the “Manta Mom” after a scientific break-through with manta rays in Guam. Hartup earned her master's in biology from UOG in 2017.

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The woman who thinks like a manta

www.divernet.com

 Julie Hartup made the transition from a restricted Mormon existence in Utah to becoming known as the “Manta Mom” after a scientific break-through with manta rays in Guam. 

The sun is still below the horizon in Guam as I snorkel above a barren reef. There are no manta rays anywhere. “Manta Mom” Julie Hartup checks her watch and signals another 20 minutes for the big event.

I’m doubtful, but keep looking for signs. Suddenly a squadron of mantas zips by. That’s a good start.

I notice more and more tiny surgeonfish swimming around the reef. When they become clouds, I can feel that something amazing is about to happen.

And after almost exactly 20 minutes the fish rise to the surface releasing massive clouds of eggs – and in come the mantas. Read more.