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, Thursday, May 8, 2008. Zeus, who has been at the resort for almost three years, was measured at a final wingspan of almost 13-feet, according to resort management. Marine biologists plan to monitor Zeus through a satellite tracking tag placed just prior to release. (AP Photo/Mario Nixon)

Manta ray released from Bahamas resort

May 8, 2008

NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — A 1,000-pound (450-kilogram) 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 (4 meters) in diameter — including a 3-foot (1 meter) mouth.

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

Relocating the ray from its 2.7 million-gallon (10.2 million-liter) 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.