During the month of June 2013, the Global Reef Expedition began conducting coral reef surveys in and around the Fiji Islands. All of the research was staged from the research vessel M/Y Golden Shadow and lasted approximately 30 days. The full science team visited sites in Moala, Totoya, Matuka, Cicia, Tuvuca,Vanuabalavu, Mago, Vanua vatu, Nayau, Fulaga, and Kabara. The high priority research sites listed were identified by the Lau Provincial Office. All of the data and data products developed through this program, including high resolution satellite imagery and habitat maps, will be given to the Lau Provincial Office and relevant Ministries in Fiji and non-governmental offices working on coral conservation initiatives.
Friend or Foe? Part 1: Meet the Underwater Meadows
You’re swimming in the glistening, turquoise ocean, feeling totally at peace as the water cools you under the beaming sun. Hang on—what’s that? A slippery, slimy, twisty thing brushing your foot? Ew! Argh.
That’s seagrass! And believe it or not, we love it. You don’t need to be afraid. It’s actually one of the most important ecosystems in the ocean, and it definitely won’t hurt you. Let me tell you more…
