The giant oceanic manta ray, also known as giant manta ray, is the largest type of ray in the world. They can reach a considerable size, with an average width of 4-5 meters and sometimes up to 7 meters. They can weigh up to 3,000 kilograms. It is dorsoventrally flattened and has large, triangular pectoral fins on either side of the disc. In front of the mouth, they have a pair of cephalic lobes which help direct more water and food into their mouths.
The coloring of the dorsal surface is black, dark brown, or steely blue, sometimes with a few pale spots and usually with a pale edge. They can be distinguished from other rays by their coloration. Each manta ray has its own unique color pattern variation that they can be identified by.