Christine Drews Sieger
Divers in Okinawa are helping scientists collect crucial data to protect vulnerable marine species.
Divers visiting Okinawa now have the opportunity to contribute to scientific research while exploring the ocean.
Through a new monitoring program, PADI is inviting divers to actively submit observations that can support research into marine wildlife.
The project has been launched in the Japanese waters around Okinawa, where several marine species are under pressure. The goal is to collect data that researchers and conservation organizations can use to help protect marine life.
According to the BBC, participants learn how to record observations during their dives and then upload photos and information to a global database.
Coral Reefs at Risk
The need for greater knowledge of the marine environment has grown as the coral reefs around Okinawa come under increasing pressure.
Warmer ocean temperatures have weakened coral reefs in many areas, leaving them vulnerable to the effects of rising temperatures, BBC reports.
The consequences extend far beyond the corals themselves. The degradation of coral reefs affects the entire ecosystem, as many species depend on the reefs for both feeding and shelter.
“That’s why we have launched the Global Shark and Ray Census in tandem with the new speciality course,” explained Samantha Pearson, Global PR Director at PADI. “That’s also why we decided to launch it here in Japan.”
Every Observation Counts
As part of the project, divers record species, numbers, and locations. Even dives without shark or ray sightings can be valuable to researchers, as they help provide a more accurate picture of the animals’ distribution.
Researchers can identify individual manta rays by the distinctive markings on their undersides, which vary from one animal to another.
Photographs submitted by divers make it possible to track individual animals over extended periods, according to BBC.
The data will be used by researchers and conservation organizations to monitor population trends and strengthen efforts to protect some of the ocean’s most vulnerable species.
Sources: BBC
