1,000-pound manta ray returns to ocean

Research subject, tourist attraction at resort, 'Zeus' released into Atlantic

Mario Nixon / AP

A helicopter transfers a 1,000-pound manta ray named Zeus from a captive marine viewing habitat to the Atlantic Ocean as part of a release and research program at Atlantis resort on Paradise Island, Bahamas.

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updated 9:56 p.m. ET May 8, 2008

NASSAU, Bahamas - A 1,000-pound manta ray was returned to the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday after three years as a research subject and tourist attraction at a Bahamian resort.

The massive black ray, known as "Zeus," was lowered from a helicopter on a hydraulically welded frame to ensure its safe entry into the water. It spans nearly 13 feet in diameter — including a 3-foot-wide mouth.

Marine biologists had studied the creature and will now use a satellite tracking tag to monitor its movements in the open sea.

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Relocating the ray from its 2.7 million-gallon aquarium took more than two hours, according to a statement issued by the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island.

Known for its water slides and pink-towered hotel, the Atlantis is the flagship resort of Kerzner International Holdings, a casino and hotel developer. The resort employs 7,800 people, making it the largest private employer in the Bahamas.