Manta ray released from Bahamas resort

The massive black ray, known as "Zeus" and with a mouth spanning more than 3 feet (nearly 1 meter), was lowered from a helicopter on a hydraulically welded frame to ensure its safe entry into the water.

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.