REEF and the Semmens Lab at Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) are collaborating on an exciting new project that uses cutting-edge technology to improve our understanding of ocean ecosystems. The idea is simple: enable REEF volunteers to collect bits of environmental DNA (eDNA), the genetic material that animals shed into their surroundings. REEF surveyors, who are already in the water conducting fish surveys as part of the Volunteer Fish Survey Project (VFSP), are excellent candidates to help gather eDNA samples.
We are excited to welcome Paul Bonatz to the Golden Hamlet Club, which honors the achievements of those who have conducted and submitted 1,000 REEF surveys as part of the Volunteer Fish Survey Project. As the 47th REEF surveyor to achieve this milestone, Paul's name will be added to a special Golden Hamlet Club plaque that is displayed at the REEF Campus in Key Largo, FL.
REEF Ocean Explorers Education Programs inspire people to make a difference and protect the oceans. We teach learners of all ages about marine biology, ecology, citizen science, and invasive species. To connect even more people with ocean conservation, REEF has partnered with several arts and humanities organizations to create programs and events that highlight connections between science and the arts.
Registration is open for the fifth annual REEF Fish Out of Water Virtual 5K! This event brings people together in the spirit of health, community, and conservation. From June 8-15, you can join in by getting active in celebration of World Ocean Day! You can choose your favorite activity: run, walk, hike, bike, swim, or even paddle! You can complete your 5K at your own pace and participate from anywhere in the world. For all the details and registration, visit www.REEF.org/5K.
Every year on the last Friday in April, REEF celebrates Give BIG for the Oceans. This single-day giving event is a way for the REEF community to come together to celebrate and support ocean conservation. Our fourth annual Give BIG for the Oceans is coming up on April 26, and all donations made on this day will be MATCHED up to $30,000! A special thank you to the Pelton Charitable Foundation and two anonymous REEF members for providing these matching funds. Be sure to mark April 26 on your calendar to be sure that you can take advantage of this incredible match opportunity.
Are you interested in teaching fish ID to others, but aren't sure where to begin? Check out REEF's marine life identification curricula, which is available for 15 different areas! These instructor-led courses include everything you need to teach divers and snorkelers about some of the most commonly encountered species in a given region. Dive shops, clubs, and instructors can use this resource to introduce divers and snorkelers to citizen science and marine life identification.
Our April Fish of the Month is the Monkeyface Prickleback, Cebidichthys violaceus!
Survey Regions: Monkeyface Prickleback are found from southern Oregon to central California, and are present but rarely seen in southern California. These areas are part of REEF's PAC region. Click here to see a REEF database distribution report for this species.
REEF Field Survey Trips are eco-vacations led by marine life experts. Each trip features daily dives and fish ID classes for both beginners and experienced surveyors. This May, we're excited to head to the beautiful island of St. Lucia for diving, fish surveys, and fun! During our week at Anse Chastanet Resort, we'll enjoy beautiful ocean and mountain views. The entire region is a protected marine area and beach diving is easily accessible, in addition to our daily boat dives with onsite operator Scuba St. Lucia.
Our online programs are free and open to all! Check out what's coming up, and view the entire schedule of Fishinars and other online programs here.
REEF members are the heart of our grassroots marine conservation programs. A diverse community of divers, snorkelers, and ocean enthusiasts support our mission to conserve marine environments worldwide.