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The National
9 hours ago
- General
- The National
First recorded sighting of fish species in Abu Dhabi hailed as 'biodiversity milestone'
Abu Dhabi environment chiefs have hailed the first recorded sighting of a white-spotted grouper fish in the emirate's waters as a 'major biodiversity milestone'. The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi captured the species on camera in September. The fish is not considered critically endangered globally but its presence in Abu Dhabi waters is rare and was previously undocumented. It is now registered on the international FishBase database, a global biodiversity information system, with Abu Dhabi as a recorded location, marking a first for the region. 'The first recorded presence of the white-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coeruleopunctatus) is a major biodiversity milestone,' the EAD told The National on Tuesday. 'It indicates either improved habitat conditions or previously unrecorded distribution, both of which are valuable indicators of ecosystem resilience and monitoring effectiveness. 'This is the first confirmed record in the emirate, making it an important new addition to the UAE's marine species inventory.' Groupers are a diverse group of fish and often loosely referred to in the Middle East as hammour. The white-spotted grouper can be found across the Indo Pacific region. It is generally found in rocky areas, or near where coral is growing in chiefly shallow waters. It can grow up to more than 70cm. The sighting is not the only boost for Abu Dhabi's waters over the past few months. The EAD also said 55 nuaimi fish, a species rarely sighted in recent years, were also landed in the emirate's waters recently. Crucial discovery 'This is very significant as the landing of 55 nuaimi fish (Pinjalo Pinjalo) a species previously seen in very low numbers, suggests that fish populations are beginning to recover in healthier marine environments.' Additional sightings have also been made recently of rare species such as the large-scaled triggerfish and the spotted oceanic triggerfish. The sightings came as the EAD also reported an increase in the 'sustainable fisheries index', which measures how healthy fish populations are and how well fishing practices are helping them stay that way. It reached 97.4 per cent by the end of last year – up from just 8.9 per cent in 2018. The EAD said this means nearly all of the 'assessed fish stocks in Abu Dhabi are now being fished at sustainable levels'. 'In other words, they are no longer being overfished and have a good chance to recover naturally,' the EAD said. 'This is a major improvement from 2018, when only 8.9 per cent of stocks were within safe limits.' The development comes as Abu Dhabi continues its efforts to bolster sustainability of the emirate's seas and indicate healthier marine ecosystems as the world marked World Oceans Day on Sunday. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and chairman of the EAD, said the achievement in the fisheries index reflected Abu Dhabi's 'unwavering commitment and the diligent efforts of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi' to safeguard marine resources. 'It reinforces Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision to strike a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, serving as a global model for confronting environmental challenges for a prosperous and resilient future,' he said. Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri, secretary general of the EAD, said the significant progress made in the index underlines Abu Dhabi's leadership in environmental conservation. 'We are committed to deploying best-in-class management practices and leveraging scientific capabilities to restore fish populations and protect marine ecosystems,' she said. 'This success affirms the importance of evidence-based policy and global best practices in conserving our natural heritage for future generations.' 'By combining policy enforcement, protected areas, habitat restoration, and community engagement, the emirate is positioning itself as a regional and global model for sustainable marine management,' the EAD said. The EAD also said the findings were a 'success story' and part of a broader long-term, science-driven strategy by the EAD to protect and restore marine life in Abu Dhabi. 'By combining policy enforcement, protected areas, habitat restoration, and community engagement, the emirate is positioning itself as a regional and global model for sustainable marine management.' The health of the world's seas are in sharp focus this week as nations meet in France at the UN Ocean Conference. The gathering seeks to build momentum and money for marine conservation despite the world's seas being affected by pollution, mining, overfishing and other issues. At home, authorities have made concerted efforts over the past few years to ensure the recovery of fish stocks and put the emirate on a path to sustainability. These measures include regulating commercial fishing activities through sustainable methods, as well as implementing new regulations for recreational fishing. There are six marine reserves in Abu Dhabi, for example. In 2019 gargoor, traditional metal dome-shaped traps used by fishermen, were banned in Abu Dhabi following a study that showed declines in hammour and farsh. These efforts have continued since. The EAD in May unveiled a plan to plant millions of coral colonies by 2030. The project builds on the success of restoring one million coral colonies since 2021. Fish numbers and species variety have increased by more than 50 per cent around these areas, the EAD said. The EAD also launched the ' Abu Dhabi Coral Garden ' initiative the same month. It plans to create 'gardens' by installing 40,000 eco-friendly artificial corals of various designs and sizes.
Condé Nast Traveler
17 hours ago
- Condé Nast Traveler
The Best Scuba Diving in the World for Rare Species, Shipwrecks, and Coral Reefs
Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, scuba diving provides a unique opportunity to see and connect with nature in a way few other travel experiences can. There's something transformative about slipping beneath the surface of the sea. You can glide through vibrant coral gardens, encounter elusive marine life, or dive into historic shipwrecks. Surrounded by coral palaces and flickering schools of fish, time feels suspended—and with it, the weight of the everyday. From Indonesia to California, there are so many incredible scuba diving sites to visit around the world. Filled with complex and fragile coral reefs, swaying kelp forests, and a serene silence, the science speaks for itself: Diving has been shown to reduce stress, sharpen focus, and deepen our emotional connection to nature. The rhythmic breathing required in diving also triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you feel calmer and more focused. When it comes to traveling for the best scuba diving in the world, there's no time to waste. Many of the world's best dive sites are vanishing. Rising ocean temperatures, coral bleaching, and acidification—driven by climate change—are transforming reefs at an alarming pace. According to the IPCC, we could lose up to 90% of the world's coral reefs if global temperatures rise just 1.5°C (to which we are closer to than some might think). While it's true that some iconic dive sites have already faced massive bleaching, there are still some vibrant and colorful sites waiting to be experienced. With the help of travel expert India Wynne-Roberts, the co-founder and director of Reefscape Travel, I've rounded up the world's most extraordinary dive sites and how to best experience them—not only for their beauty, but for their meaning. Here are 17 of the best diving sites in the world. FAQ: What do I need to know as a beginner to Scuba Diving? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron For beginners, it's important to know that an Open Water certification is the most basic level required to dive safely. This certification, offered by agencies like PADI and SSI, teaches essential skills such as buoyancy control, underwater navigation, and safety procedures. Once certified, you're ready to explore the world's most reputable and stunning dive sites. Which month is best for scuba diving? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron The best month to go scuba diving depends on the location of the site. But according to PADI diving experts, understanding the sites' high, low, and shoulder seasons is the best way to start when planning your next scuba trip. High seasons, the busiest times for dive sites, depend on weather and seasonal animal sightings (for example, Bali's high season is from August to October, when divers can catch a glimpse of the giant yet elusive mola mola). For more information, PADI offers a month-by-month guide of top diving destinations. Where is the best place to go scuba diving? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron The best place to go scuba diving depends on your preference. Seven Sister Reefs of Saudi Arabia is home to vibrant, untouched coral while the Channel Islands of California is a refreshing US-bound dive with lots of biodiversity. For an exclusive scuba experience with guided experts and protected marine parks, head to Mafia Island near Thanda Island, off Tanzania's southern coast. For a less-visited approach to the Great Barrier Reef, approach the iconic dive site via Magnetic Island, off Townsville in Queensland, Australia. Pastel red and white engorged soft coral and large gorgonian on a wall near the Wakatobi Resort, Banda Sea. Getty Images Banda Sea, Indonesia Tucked far from the tourist trails, the Banda Sea offers a different kind of diving—remote, raw, and utterly original. 'This is an amazing part of Indonesia with few tourists, pristine coral reefs, and unforgettable marine encounters,' says Wynne-Roberts, who recommends it especially for divers who want to venture past the popular Komodo or Raja Ampat. From scalloped hammerhead schools to macro treasures like the psychedelic frogfish and blue-ringed octopus, biodiversity here runs deep. Accessible only by LiveAboard, the Banda Sea rewards those who make the journey. 'One of the most special things about this area,' Wynne-Roberts notes, 'is that there are so few boats—you often have the sites completely to yourself.' But she also cautions: 'It's important to choose a reputable liveaboard with experience in the region. These seasons are short, and local knowledge is everything.' One of its most fascinating spectacles takes place at Manuk Island, where banded sea kraits and bluefin trevallies hunt together—a rare symbiotic relationship most recently documented by the BBC. 'It's quite extraordinary,' Wynne-Roberts says, 'and unlike anything most divers have ever seen.' When to visit: The prime diving windows are April to May and September to November, though hammerhead sightings are best in the latter. Scuba diving level: Banda Sea sites are generally best for intermediate to advanced divers. However, many of the dive sites can be enjoyed by all levels. It's best to speak to an on-site diving expert to gauge which experience is best for you. Where to stay: For a seafront hotel with colonial architecture (and proximity to the dive pros): The Maulana For wellness and adventure: Moro Ma Doto The crystal blue waters of Bonaire National Marine Park. Noel Hendrickson/Getty Bonaire National Marine Park Renowned as the world's shore-diving capital, Bonaire is a dream for independent divers with over 85 marked dive sites accessible directly from land. The entire coastline is protected by the Bonaire National Marine Park, preserving vibrant coral walls, curious turtles, frogfish, and fields of elkhorn coral. Divers of all levels can explore reef slopes right off the beach, guided by yellow rocks marking the way. A Marine Park entry tag is mandatory—$45 USD annually for divers—which directly funds conservation efforts and must be displayed before diving. With near-perfect conditions year-round, this might just be free diving at its best. (Not to mention, for those based in the US, it's a shorter flight than some other destinations on this list.) When to visit: September through November brings the calmest seas and fewest crowds, with warm, crystal-clear water. Scuba diving level: While levels depend on the dive, the park's reefs and walls are suitable for beginners, while deeper sites and wreck dives cater to experienced divers. Where to stay: For a dive resort with strong marine conservation efforts: Buddy Dive Resort For a luxe stay with marine programming activities: The Bellafonte Bonaire Landscape view from Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park, California. Getty Channel Islands, California In California, the Channel Islands are a prime location for divers seeking untouched ecosystems. The islands are famous for their thriving kelp forests, where divers can encounter sea lions, giant sea bass, and a variety of sharks. The waters here are rich in biodiversity, from yellowtail to white sharks. The remoteness of the islands means that divers can often experience these marine wonders in peace, with fewer crowds. It's a sanctuary for marine life, thanks to the protection of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. For those planning to book a hotel, note that there are no services or lodging on the islands themselves. The National Park Service (NPS) says you can either opt in for primitive camping on all five islands—or, for something more comfortable, book lodging in Ventura, Oxnard, or Santa Barbara.
South China Morning Post
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Singapore's mega-aquarium readies to reopen 3 times larger
A major attraction is set to return to the glittering city state of Singapore in triple the size this summer: the Singapore Oceanarium, a mega-aquarium located on the offshore island of Sentosa. Over the past three months, the former SEA Aquarium – already one of the largest in the world with more than 100,000 marine creatures – has been completely redesigned. The new facility is now three times larger and offers immersive experiences across 22 different zones, according to the operator Resorts World Sentosa. The opening date for the new Oceanarium is July 23. Among the themed zones are 'Ocean Wonders', featuring thousands of glowing blue moon jellyfish, and 'Singapore's Coast', which showcases mangrove landscapes and interactive habitats celebrating local biodiversity. A visitors takes pictures through a viewing panel at the old SEA aquarium on Sentosa Island. Photo: AFP In the 'Ancient Waters' section, visitors can marvel at life-size prehistoric animals and living fossils that trace evolution over time.
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Travel + Leisure
21-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
I've Gone on 134 Dives and This Is My Favorite Snorkeling Spot in the Caribbean
As a long-time scuba diver, I typically seek out the best scuba sites when I travel to the Caribbean. But in one destination, I didn't have to strap on an air tank to experience the wonders of the local marine life. In the Exumas—the sub-archipelago of The Bahamas comprising over 300 cays southeast of Nassau—I visited a magnificent site brimming with tropical fish. Known as 'Thunderball Grotto,' this secluded, dramatic cave of jagged limestone, illuminated by sun rays peering down through natural holes in the ceiling, looks like a movie set. (And in fact, it was: the 'thunderball' in its name comes from its appearance in the 1965 James Bond film starring Sean Connery, and it had made a few Hollywood cameos since.) Lying between Staniel Cay and Big Major Cay, Thunderball Grotto is accessible by charter boat or by any of the all-day boat cruises that stop at all the popular Exumas spots. These include other 'must-sees' like Pig Beach (literally a beach filled with pigs, as the name suggests) and the nurse shark sanctuary in Compass Cay. Once anchored, it can take some effort to get into the grotto depending on the current and tides, since you have to swim and snorkel your way from the boat to the cave's entrance. But once you're inside the natural enclosure, the efforts will be visibly worth it. The amazing blue waters at the Thunderball Grotto. When I emerged from the waters, I saw its cavernous, almost cathedral-like interior. The rugged limestone walls reached to a ceiling with natural skylights, from which aerial roots of ficus trees hung like decorative drapery. It's a majestic sight. But the real magic was under the glassy, blue-hued waters that are so clear and transparent it offers mind-boggling visibility for snorkeling. The central pool has clusters of coral and sponges, attracting dozens of types of tropical fish. Snorkeling here is like swimming in a naturally-formed aquarium, where you'll see the black and white stripes of banded butterfly fish, silver bar jacks, yellowtail snappers, multi-colored parrotfish, and yellow-tinted, striped sergeant majors, among many of the other fish found in the Bahamas. The occasional scuba diver may dive deeper to see more of the underwater rock formations, but it's not necessary. The spectacle that is Thunderball Grotto is already near the surface of the water.
Japan Times
19-05-2025
- Science
- Japan Times
The true cost of ocean plastic pollution
The problem of maritime plastic-waste pollution first became apparent in the 1970s. In the half-century since then, the problem has become ever more widespread, as scientific expeditions conducted by the Tara Ocean Foundation (of which I am executive director) have shown. Large pieces of debris, such as fishing nets and their disastrous effects on marine life are the most visible symptom. Such waste is estimated to kill more than 1 million seabirds and over 100,000 marine mammals annually, often through entanglement or suffocation, and promotes transport of invasive species, triggering a cascading effect on the ecosystems in which they play a central role. Less visible, but more pervasive, are microplastics, which have been found in the deepest ocean trenches and all types of marine life. Microplastics can, among other things, modify bacterial and viral communities and disperse chemical toxins in food chains (often after being ingested by marine organisms). Some of these toxins, such as phthalates, are associated with the chemistry of plastics, while others, such as pesticides and heavy metals, are absorbed by the plastic before it reaches the ocean and enters the food chain. How these toxic substances interact with plastics has been the subject of much study. Plastic is comprised of monomers that have been chemically bonded to form long chains of polymers — ethylene, styrene and propylene become polyethylene, polystyrene and polypropylene. But the process of polymerization is often imperfect and some of the unpolymerized monomers that remain in plastic, like different types of styrene and bisphenol, pose major environmental and health risks. Moreover, other chemical additives, including plasticizers, fillers, colorants, flame retardants and antioxidants, are incorporated into polymer formulations to modify their properties. And nonintentionally added substances (NIAS) — impurities, raw materials used in manufacturing, byproducts and degradation products — bind to finished plastics. In most cases, because free monomers, additives and NIAS are simply trapped within the tangle of polymer chains, rather than being chemically bound to them, they are more likely to leach out during the production, use and disposal of plastic, migrating into liquids, gases and solids. Some 16,000 such molecules have been identified, but their effects are still not fully known, nor is their toxicity, which can change depending on how they are combined. What we do know is that one-quarter of these 16,000 molecules are pose a hazard to human health or the environment by disrupting biochemical processes in living organisms. Halting the flow of microplastics and toxic pollutants into the world's bodies of water is a Sisyphean task. Nevertheless, scientists are trying to stem the problem. For example, the Tara Europa expedition, in coordination with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory and more than 70 scientific institutions across the continent, has spent the past two years investigating how these hazardous substances make their way into the seas and oceans bordering Europe. The mission plans to share its findings soon. But the generation of toxic waste and debris is not the only way that plastic can harm ocean health. The plastics industry has been a major driver of climate change, accounting for an estimated 3.4% of global greenhouse-gas emissions. Plastic production is on track to contribute 15% of GHG emissions by 2050, exacerbating global warming and thereby increasing the threats to marine life, which is sensitive to rising water temperatures. Because plastic degrades the entire biosphere, not just the ocean, it is not a waste problem that can be solved by a few sustainability-minded citizens' recycling efforts. This is a systemic crisis that requires an economy-wide solution. A better approach is to understand plastic as one of the 'new entities' that must not leak into the environment, a view initially formulated by the Stockholm Resilience Centre in its work on planetary boundaries and later endorsed by the United Nations. While acknowledging the impossibility of defining a precise threshold for harm, such an approach highlights the need for a drastic reduction in plastic use. Research suggests that it would be economically feasible to halve global plastic production at a cost which would almost surely be less than the cost of inaction. But, according to a recent study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, even this reduction would not be enough to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, the target set by the Paris climate agreement. Instead, they found that meeting this goal would require a 75% reduction in plastic production compared to 2015, when the agreement was adopted. Addressing this global crisis with the necessary urgency will require mobilizing investment and support to reduce the production of single-use plastics, increase the lifespan of plastic objects through regulation and promote reuse and reparability. While it is tempting to lean on short-term fixes, such as replacing plastic packaging with other disposable materials like paper, cardboard, aluminum, steel and glass, the goal must not be merely to mitigate the symptoms of the underlying ailment. Our economies are on the cusp of upheaval as the need for a habitable and healthy planet becomes inescapable. Ignoring or even denying the economic reality of the current ecological emergency would be to shut one's eyes to the close dependence of human activities on a stable and favorable environment. Working with, rather than against, nature requires a paradigm shift — and it starts with plastics. Romain Trouble is executive director of the Tara Ocean Foundation. © Project Syndicate, 2025
