COT Observation
Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) is a large, spiny marine starfish found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. While it is a natural part of coral reef ecosystems, outbreaks of COTS can cause severe damage to coral reefs, as they feed on living coral tissue. When their populations grow beyond natural levels, entire reef systems can be rapidly degraded.
The coral reefs in Trou aux Biches, Mauritus are both ecologically and economically vital. They support marine biodiversity, protect shorelines, and are a key attraction for tourism and diving.
Our COTS observation dives play a crucial role in protecting and understanding reef health in the region. By regularly monitoring populations of crown-of-thorns starfish, we can:
-
Detect early signs of population outbreaks before they cause widespread coral loss
-
Support reef conservation efforts through data collection and scientific observation
-
Help our marine scientists and conservation programs better understand ecosystem changes
-
Contribute to long-term protection of Mauritius’ coral reefs
Our Commitment to Responsible Diving
Our company operates in full alignment with the Green Fins guidelines. This means we follow internationally recognized best practices to minimize environmental impact during all activities, including:
-
Careful buoyancy control to avoid contact with coral
-
No touching, disturbing, or removing marine life
-
Responsible interaction during all observation dives
-
Continuous environmental awareness and education for divers and staff
Our Role in Reef Conservation
Through guided observation dives, our dive center enables divers and marine enthusiasts to actively participate in real conservation work. Each dive helps gather valuable field data while raising awareness about the fragile balance of coral reef ecosystems.
These experiences are not just dives – they are part of a larger effort to preserve the underwater beauty of Mauritius for future generations.
By joining our COTS observation dives, guests directly contribute to reef science and conservation in one of the Indian Ocean’s most important marine environments.
🪸 HELP US PROTECT OUR REEFS – CROWN-OF-THORNS STARFISH MONITORING
At Angiesea, we continue to monitor Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) on our local reefs. These coral-eating starfish can have a significant impact on coral communities, making regular monitoring an important part of understanding and protecting our marine environment.
But we don't just observe – we collect data!
Our COTS observations are recorded and submitted to a monitoring platform, helping contribute to a wider picture of what is happening on our reefs.
We want to encourage more divers, marine enthusiasts and ocean lovers to get involved. You don't need to be a marine scientist to contribute. With guidance from our team, you can learn how to identify COTS, record observations and help collect valuable information.
Every sighting matters. Every record contributes to a better understanding of our reefs.
COME DIVE WITH US!
Join Angiesea on a conservation dive, learn about Crown-of-Thorns Starfish and become part of our reef monitoring efforts.
Together, we can turn recreational diving into meaningful citizen science.
Dive, observe, record and make a difference! 💙