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NASSAU, Bahamas - A 450-kilogram manta ray is back in the Atlantic Ocean after spending three years as a research subject and tourist attraction at a resort in the Bahamas.

The massive black ray known as "Zeus" spans nearly four metres in diameter, including a one-metre mouth.

It was lowered from a helicopter on a hydraulically welded frame to ensure its safe entry into the water.

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

Relocating the ray from its 10-million-litre 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.