2011 EcoExpeditions with Biosphere Expeditions

Biosphere Expeditions recently added a brand new EcoExpedition to the Maldives for 2011, to go along with their continuing EcoExpeditions to Honduras and Oman. Reserve your spot today! Each trip includes the Reef Check EcoDiver training course.

Cayos Cochinos, Honduras
Expedition dates: March 6 – March 18, 2011 or March 20 – April 1, 2011 (12 nights)

Biosphere Expeditions promotes sustainable conservation of the planet’s wildlife by involving the public in real hands-on wildlife research and conservation expeditions alongside scientists who are at the forefront of conservation work. In Honduras, Biosphere Expeditions is surveying the coral reefs of the Cayos Cochinos marine protected area. The Cayos Cochinos form part of the world’s second largest barrier reef system, known as the Meso-American Barrier Reef, and have been identified as one of the key sections of the barrier reef system to preserve. Data from this survey will be compared to that of other parts of the Meso-American Barrier Reef System and to reefs worldwide.
For more information: http://www.biosphere-expeditions.org/honduras

Maldives
Expedition Dates: September 3 – 9, 2011 or September 10 – 16, 2011 (6 nights)

Many reefs in the Maldives are in a relatively pristine state and of high aesthetic quality. The Maldives Marine Research Station of the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture identified a need for further research and monitoring work as far back as 1997. Biosphere Expeditions is addressing this need and is working with Reef Check and the Marine Conservation Society in order to provide vital data on reef health. During transfers between the Reef Check dive sites, the expedition will also endeavor to record the presence or absence of whale sharks from the vessel.
For more information: http://www.biosphere-expeditions.org/maldives

Musandam, Oman
Expedition Dates: October 9 – 15, 2011 or October 16 – 22, 2011 (6 nights)

This EcoExpedition will take you to the United Arab Emirates and from there to the remote and mountainous Musandam peninsula of Oman. There you will study the diverse coral reefs fringing the areas where the mountains plunge into the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This is a pioneering study to map this currently unprotected underwater environment. The reefs boast a rich mixture of beautiful corals and a multitude of fish and other animals. Data on the current biological status of the reefs and of population levels of key indicator species are therefore crucial for educational purposes and to be able to put forward ideas for future marine protection areas.
For more information: http://www.biosphere-expeditions.org/musandam