Cozumel is known for relaxed drift diving and many unique fish finds, from the endemic Splendid Toadfish, found only in this area, to the high abundances of interesting species like Cherubfish, Blackcap Basslet, and Sargassum Triggerfish. When not diving, you will enjoy all the wonderful food and culture that Mexico has to offer, as well as daily seminars by Cozumel local and fish id expert, Tracey Griffin. This annual trip to Cozumel is sure to be a wonderful week of camaraderie, diving and citizen science! Reserve your spot today because this trip always fills up quickly.
Part of a volcanic and coral mountain range, Guanaja is within the world's second-largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Dive sites surround the entire island, meaning it's possible to find a site with calm water on nearly any day of the week. Just steps from the sandy beach, the rocks and flats surrounding the island are perfect for those who love shore diving and searching for all of the unique fish species that inhabit the shallows. The Villa on Dunbar Rock is a one of a kind resort providing stunning 360 degree views.
REEF surveyors will enjoy the fish diversity found in San Salvador, voted one of the best wall-diving locations in the Caribbean. The island, located in the southeastern Bahamas, is the tip of a submerged mountain that plunges more than 15,000 feet below the ocean's surface. Shark lovers will especially enjoy this location, as it is one of the few places known to attract Scalloped Hammerheads, which are seen more frequently during the winter months. Family-owned and operated Riding Rock Resort is one of only two resorts located on the San Salvador waterfront.
Last month, the Grouper Moon Project - a highly successful conservation science collaboration between REEF and the Cayman Islands Department of Environment - wrapped up its 18th year of work in Little Cayman. Because all of the field work takes place during a few weeks around the winter full moons when the Nassau Grouper aggregate to spawn, the team prepares all year to ensure success for the big event. As we reported in last month’s e-News, because of this year's moon calendar, we sent research teams to Little Cayman in both January and February.
Looking to take a citizen science dive trip in 2019? There are still spaces remaining on some REEF Field Survey Trips this year. Marine life enthusiasts are invited to join us for a vacation filled with diving, ocean education, and fun. For more information on any of the trips below, visit www.REEF.org/trips or contact trips@REEF.org.
As an environmental leader in our Florida Keys community, we are excited to share that REEF is taking a big step toward sustainability by making improvements to our Headquarters in Key Largo. You can help us reduce our carbon footprint by making a one-time, tax-deductible donation to support renewable energy.
Located in remote Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Misool is known for pristine reefs and abundant marine life. All of the dive sites are protected by the resort's own Misool Private Marine Reserve, including the House Reef, a world-class shore dive with the opportunity to see unique animals including Black Tip Reef Sharks, Bargibanti and Denise Pygmy Seahorses, and even mating Mandarinfish!
Caroly's Notes: Ocean Connections
You can contribute to REEF's conservation and education efforts while shopping for everyday items, through our newly launched Shop to Support program. By partnering with companies who care about the marine environment, we are able to spend more time on programs and less time fundraising! We sincerely appreciate the generous support of these partners.
Fishinars are REEF's brand of fun, live, interactive webinars and anyone who wants to know more about ocean life is welcome to join. REEF’s upcoming schedule includes tools to help you build your fish identification skills, and a look into REEF’s newest project region – the Indian Ocean & Red Sea! Below are our upcoming sessions: