1,042 Surveys. 18 Events. One Great Annual Fish Count

The Great Annual Fish Count for 2026 has come to an end! Thank you to everyone who participated, and to all of our amazing partners who hosted events in their own communities.

This year, we had a total of 1,042 surveys submitted by 222 people throughout the month of July. We also had 18 events organized by volunteers and partner organizations all over the world, from Bonaire to the Maldives, and many places in between! These events actively engaged hundreds of community members in marine conservation.

Key West Aquarium Lionfish Saturday

Join us at the Key West Aquarium to learn about one of the Florida Keys' most impactful marine invaders, the red lionfish. Stop by our outreach table anytime from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to explore lionfish biology, their impacts on native reef ecosystems, and how divers and community members are helping manage this invasive species through citizen science and conservation.

Don't miss our live lionfish dissection demonstrations from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, where you'll get an up-close look at lionfish anatomy and learn what makes this species such a successful invader.

2027 Field Survey Trips to the Caribbean made easy

If your dream dive vacation includes colorful coral reefs, incredible marine life, and the opportunity to support ocean conservation, REEF's 2027 Field Survey Trips offer something for every underwater explorer. Each trip combines unforgettable diving with citizen science, giving participants the chance to collect valuable survey data while exploring some of the Tropical Western Atlantic's most spectacular destinations. Best of all, these trips are just a short journey from the U.S.

Fish of the Month: August 2026

Meet our August Fish of the Month, the Grey Reef Shark, Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos, one of the most iconic reef predators of the Indo-Pacific and an unforgettable sight for any diver lucky enough to share the water with one. Sleek, curious, and perfectly built for life along the reef edge, it is a true ambassador for healthy ocean ecosystems.

Faces of REEF: Daisy Anderson

A familiar face is back at REEF, and we could not be more excited to welcome her. Daisy Anderson (she/her) has rejoined the team as our newest Marine Conservation Fellow, serving from July 2026 through May 2027. Daisy first came to REEF as an Education and Conservation Intern in the summer of 2025, and we are delighted that she has returned to continue her journey with us.

Making It Count - August 2026

Ocean Explorers Highlight: Surveying Expedition with the Adapt-Able Foundation

This summer has been filled with exciting REEF Discovery Programs and Expeditions for participants of all ages. One of the most meaningful was a two-day program with the Adapt-Able Foundation, a veteran-operated nonprofit that creates opportunities for people with physical, emotional, and developmental disabilities to experience scuba diving.

Meet the Speakers: REEF Fest 2026 Seminar Lineup

REEF Fest returns to Key Largo October 15–18, 2026, and this year's free seminar series brings an exciting lineup of scientists, naturalists, and explorers to the REEF Ocean Exploration Center. Here's a look at who's taking the stage this year alongside the REEF team.

Exploring Earth's Final Frontier: Discoveries from the Deep Ocean
Dr. Sam Purkis — Professor and Chair, Department of Marine Geosciences, University of Miami

Leave a Legacy for the Ocean

August is National Make a Will Month, a fitting moment to think about the ocean you want to leave behind. For 36 years, REEF has protected marine life through citizen science, education, and partnerships with the scientific community. A planned gift is one of the most powerful ways to make sure that work continues for generations to come.

Sharkey's Rockin' the Dock Celebration

Join us for a fun afternoon and evening of drinks, food, friends, and lionfish during Sharkey's annual Rockin' the Dock celebration! Stop by the REEF booth to learn about invasive lionfish and play fun games.

All proceeds that night will support REEF's mission to protect and conserve our ocean through education, research, and citizen science. Come out, have fun, and help make a difference for our reefs!

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