I created detailed illustrations of two manta ray species along with all their hitchhiker species for a long-term research study conducted by the Manta Trust and Maldives Manta Conservation Programme in the Maldives. Each hitchhiker was also illustrated individually to highlight the diversity of species that rely on manta rays for shelter and sustenance. The artwork supports scientific understanding of these understudied symbiotic relationships, visualising how manta ray sex, behaviour, and location influence the presence of different hitchhikers. This project combined artistic precision with scientific insight, making complex marine interactions accessible and engaging. I loved working together with the researchers to make sure all illustrations were painted according to their vision. You can learn more about the research here.