Author: Noa Parks, Citizen Science Coordinator
At REEF, every survey you submit adds vital data to marine conservation, and we love celebrating your contributions! As you reach key milestones in the Volunteer Fish Survey Project, you’ll receive recognition along the way:
• 100 Surveys: Congrats email and printable certificate.
• 500 Surveys - Juvenile Golden Hamlet: Mailed certificate, webpage listing, and social media shoutout.
• 1,000 Surveys - Golden Hamlet: Profile on the Golden Hamlet Club webpage, plaque listing at the Ocean Exploration Center, and e-News feature.
• 2,000+ Surveys - Ultra Golden Hamlet: Special certificate and distinguished listing on Golden Hamlet Club webpage.
Whether you’ve hit a milestone or are on your way, we celebrate your dedication as a REEF surveyor!
Author: Christy Pattengill-Semmens, Ph.D., Co-Executive Director: Science & Engagement
On average, more than 1,000 REEF surveys are submitted each month by volunteer divers worldwide, adding to the world’s most comprehensive marine fish biodiversity database. Since January 2024, 22,665 surveys have been submitted by 1,226 REEF volunteer surveyors.
In 2025, we’ve received several exciting new data requests from researchers using REEF data for important studies, including:
• North Carolina State University: studying South Atlantic marine life.
• Simon Fraser University: tracking Spiny Pink Sea Star trends in British Columbia.
• Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences: analyzing fish sightings for new research.
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute: mapping long-term coastal monitoring.
Your surveys truly make a difference! Explore publications featuring REEF data at www.REEF.org/db/publications.
Spiny Pink Sea Star photo by Janna Nichols.
Author: Christy Pattengill-Semmens, Ph.D., Co-Executive Director: Science & Engagement
Ever recognize a fish instantly, without knowing how? That intuitive sense is called GISS or Jizz - short for “general impression of size and shape.” Originating from WWII aircraft spotting and later adopted by naturalists, it describes the instinctive recognition of a species through its overall look and behavior. The term "jizz” first appeared in an Irish natural history column in 1921, and is likely derived from the German word gestalt, meaning a complete shape or form. It's often used in birdwatching.
Fishwatching by GISS means noticing the whole picture - size, color, swimming style, and habitat. With experience, you’ll quickly narrow down families or species, even without pinpointing details. It may feel imprecise, but that “jizz of a fish” becomes remarkably accurate with practice! To read more about this topic, check out this article or this scientific paper.
Author: Janna Nichols, Citizen Science Program Manager
Wondering how to fix a mistake on your REEF survey? It depends on whether you’ve hit the SUBMIT button.
If your survey is still listed under “Surveys In Progress” (after the address confirmation screen), you can edit it yourself. Before submitting, we suggest reviewing your photos and confirming all IDs.
If you’ve already submitted your survey, no problem! Email us with the 7-digit survey number and details about what needs to be added, changed, or deleted, and we'll be happy to get it updated for you.
Author: The REEF Team
Looking for meaningful gifts this holiday season? With REEF’s Shop to Support program, your purchases can help protect oceans and fuel citizen science. By shopping through REEF’s online store or supporting partner businesses, you can give gifts that give back.
From REEF gear and fish ID materials to ocean-inspired apparel and accessories, there’s something for everyone. Many of our partner businesses donate a portion of sales back to REEF when you use their specific affiliate codes at checkout, so be sure to use them to maximize your impact! Visit this page for more information.
Barberfish photo: Carol Cox
Author: Stacey Henderson, REEF Field Survey Trips Program Manager
Looking for a dive trip to learn more about marine life? Join us on a REEF Field Survey Trip! Destinations with open spaces include:
Jamaica - March 14-21, 2026
Cayman Brac - April 4-11, 2026
Fiji - April 18-28, 2026
St. Eustatius - May 9-16. 2026
Cuba - June 27-July 4, 2026
Tubbataha, Philippines - June 28-July 8, 2026
Visit www.REEF.org/trips for details, registration, and to see all upcoming trips.
