New EcoExpedition Available in Madagascar

Submitted by Reef Check EcoDiver Trainer Christian Solterer

Mora Mora Conservation with the University of Marche will organize two sessions of 14-day field courses on coral reefs that will take you to the island of Sakatia in the northwest of Madagascar. These reefs are world renowned for having more than 400 coral species and fish species from all over the Indian Ocean. This expedition gives divers a superb opportunity to become EcoDiver certified. All guests will be provided with the materials needed. Lectures and presentations on reef survey techniques will be given.

Biologist Christian Solterer, who is leading the workshop, has been involved in Reef Check surveys in lemur country since 2003. He is also a NAUI Course Director CMAS*** Instructor.

This workshop taught in English, French or German aims to:

• Provide basic knowledge for the identification of fish, hard corals and invertebrates
• Find at least 2 new sites to install permanent transects
• Teach different survey methods underwater, including Reef Check and Coral Watch protocols
• Contribute to the monitoring and conservation of coral reefs

Participants will obtain the international tropical EcoDiver certification issued by the Reef Check Foundation as well as three marine ecology specialties issued by SSI.

For more information about this Madagascar EcoExpedition, contact biodiversity@moramora.ch or visit https://www.moramora.ch/reefchecksakatia.