Coral reef Monitoring

We conduct ongoing coral reef monitoring in Trou aux Biches (Mauritius) to assess, track, and understand the health of local reef ecosystems. Using systematic surveys and scientific monitoring methods, we document coral condition, biodiversity, and environmental stressors over time. Our work supports conservation efforts, early detection of reef degradation, and informed decision-making to help protect and restore Mauritius’ valuable coral reefs.

Crown Of Thorns (COTS)

🌊 Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS)

Diver Training & Response Programme

Programme Introduction

Purpose

This programme trains divers to safely locate, identify, document, and assist in the management of crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks.

Goals

Participants will learn to:

✔ recognise COTS
✔ understand reef impact
✔ apply safe diving procedures
✔ collect useful scientific data
✔ support organised response teams

Reef Ecology Basics

Coral reefs are living ecosystems that depend on balance between:

coral growth
herbivores
predators
water quality

COTS are natural coral predators, but during outbreaks their numbers can exceed what reefs can tolerate.

Identification Skills

Key characteristics

Large starfish
Many arms
Long venomous spines
Variable colours
Often on hard coral

Signs of presence

white feeding scars
damaged coral colonies
multiple individuals in one area

Why Outbreaks Happen

Several factors are believed to contribute:

nutrient increase in coastal waters
removal of natural predators
larval survival conditions
currents concentrating juveniles

Divers are essential early-warning observers.

Survey Techniques

Divers will practise:

slow, controlled swimming
checking ledges & crevices
estimating size classes
counting individuals accurately
noting coral condition

Good buoyancy is mandatory.

Data Collection

Standard information:

site
date & time
depth
number
size
behaviour
habitat

Reliable data allows managers to plan interventions.

Safety Procedures

COTS spines are venomous and brittle.

Rules:

never touch
maintain distance
watch equipment
avoid kneeling on reef
report incidents immediately
Control & Removal (Trained Personnel Only)

Only authorised divers may:

inject approved solutions
collect specimens
transport equipment

Unplanned killing can reduce programme effectiveness.

Emergency Response

If stung:

signal buddy & guide
exit safely
inform staff
hot water treatment
monitor for complications

Environmental Ethics

We work to protect reefs.

Divers must:
✔ avoid contact
✔ prevent anchor damage
✔ minimise sediment
✔ respect marine life

Team Communication

Underwater signals for:

sighting
numbers
assistance
problem / abort

Clear communication = better science & safer dives.

Certification / Participation

After completion, divers may be recognised as:

COTS Survey Support Diver – Angiesea

Participants contribute to real conservation outcomes.

Not just a dive. A mission.

Join Angiesea’s conservation team and help us monitor and protect our reefs.
Assist in real surveys, collect scientific data, and become part of the solution.

✔ Dive with professionals
✔ Support marine research
✔ Make a visible difference underwater

📍 Limited spaces – contact us to join the next expedition.

REEF OBSERVATION

Participants contribute to our MCE monitoring by collecting observational data on coral condition, reef impacts, and ecosystem health.After the dive, the information you help us collect is entered into CoralNet, a global system used to track coral health. JOIN US AND MAKE THE DIFFERENCE .