We’re excited to introduce a new addition to the REEF store: Latex Rubber Tubing for Survey Pencil Attachment. Designed as a colorful, practical way to secure a pencil to a survey slate, each 17-inch piece of tubing comes with three beads for attachment, and is recommended for use with a golf pencil or thin mechanical pencil. It is available in a range of colors and priced at $2.99. A photo tutorial on how to set up your plate, pencil and tubing is located on the purchase page.
Ever struggled with trying to decide which habitat to mark on your survey? You are not alone. It can sometimes be a tricky decision. Did you know that with all survey regions combined there are a total of 29 habitat options? Don’t worry, you don’t need to know all of them, but, if you happen to survey in a certain region, you may not know about other habitat types.
In the first 6 months of 2026, 4,937 surveys have been submitted by 446 REEF volunteer surveyors! Not only are these efforts adding to the world’s most comprehensive marine fish biodiversity database, but they also support important conservation and research objectives.
So far this year, we’ve received several exciting new data requests from researchers using REEF data for important studies, including:
Thanks to a newer feature on the REEF website, now you can track the status of your surveys! First, log into your REEF account. Under "My Survey Log" you can see the status of your surveys. There are four categories:
REEF member Peter Leahy has been conducting REEF surveys since 1994. Since then, he has contributed more than 5,000 surveys to the REEF database. He enjoys accessing the database and sharing how anyone can use this resource to gain their own insights. Last year, Peter went to Costa Rica - a destination where he had never surveyed before - and wanted to know what fish he would be likely to see.
Check out his tips on navigating the REEF database before your next dive trip!
See the Volunteer Fish Survey Project come to life in the new REEF Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo, Florida! Admission to the Center is free, and all are welcome.
We invite you to visit and check out the interactive exhibits showcasing power of citizen science and how fish surveys make a difference. Here's what you can dive in and discover:
Every July, REEF hosts a monthlong celebration inviting divers and snorkelers around the world to get in the water and submit surveys. Whether you're a seasoned surveyor or just getting started, the Great Annual Fish Count (GAFC) is the perfect time to dive into surveying.
Let’s Celebrate! Every three months, we celebrate our surveyors’ recent accomplishments in Making It Count, our monthly e-News. This includes those who have achieved Golden Hamlet and Juvenile Golden Hamlet status (1,000 surveys and 500 surveys) and Experience Level advancements. Don’t miss the recent recognitions:
The Volunteer Fish Survey Project started in the Florida Keys in 1993. Since then, the program has grown and now surveys are conducted worldwide! Check out the timeline of our survey regions below to see how the Volunteer Fish Survey Project has grown! You can read more about the VFSP here.
The 2026 REEF Field Survey Trips schedule is out, along with a few exciting trips in 2027! Join us for an unforgettable adventure filled with diving, fish ID classes, and fun with friends. Led by marine life experts, REEF Trips are open to divers, snorkelers, and families. These trips fill up fast, so don’t miss your chance to explore a dream destination with REEF.