Papua New Guinea
Kimbe Bay, coined the ‘crucible‘ of the Coral Triangle, is said to be where the first corals originated, and where ~5% of all marine biodiversity resides. Kimbe Bay marks an incredible intersect of dramatic geology and physical oceanography, which drive evolutionary processes extending far beyond the depths of conventional SCUBA. This provides an ideal location for scientific field research and exploration at mesophotic depths.
Whilst the shallow reefs have been well documented, little is known of the biodiversity at mesophotic depths. Until 2016, where I joined a group of researchers to explore the deeper depths throughout the bay. Building on this initial investigation, participants will have the opportunity to conduct mesophotic field research to characterise the deep and shallow reefs of select seamounts within Kimbe Bay. The MMR is specifically designed to learn these field techniques and support this ongoing research.
About to leap in for a dive after discussing the efficacy of quantifying coral ecology across depth with Dr. T.E. Roberts. His pioneering field work would set the scene for my modified protocol.
Click on the Patreon link below to learn more about our previous research expedition on the mesophotic coral reefs of Kimbe Bay.
Get Involved
To expand your skills and participate in expedition research projects you will learn critical procedures tailored to mesophotic depths. There are three options currently available for this location, which will prepare or actually involve you (depending on your level of experience) for expedition research.
Expedition field research will be based out of the Walindi Plantation Resort and Mahonia Na Dari, Walindi Nature Centre, in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea.
Click on the Sign up tab below to register your interest.
Exploring Further Afield
Diving in to the unchartered mesophotic depths and particularly the seamounts throughout the West New Britain Province will be a key component of the Methods in Mesophotic Exploration (MME) course. Exploring unknown areas facilitates new species discoveries, and also the posibility for establishing ideal sites for future research.
Exploration research throughout the West New Britain Province will be conducted on the Walindi Plantation Resort Liveaboards.
