Programme Details
Research will take place in the beautiful surrounding areas of the Isla de la Plata found in the Machalilla National Park, home to an incredible variety of marine life. Depending on the dominating current in the region, the waters witness the humpback whale and Manta Ray migration between June to October, schools of dolphins in March/ April and a year round presence of green and hawksbill turtles. The reefs are populated by a huge variety of fish species including a wide range of macro-life including the fascinating seahorses.
The aim of the project is to study the marine ecosystem in the area around the island and help encourage the relevant authorities to become advocates of a conservation perspective and work with the local community to preserve their marine heritage.
The project is based around species presence in the park with the aim to build a database of species and record the water conditions in the area of study to see if any patterns develop over the next few years.
Your duties will depend on your experience however this could range from anything from water observation, sample collecting, data collation, surface observation and aerial observation (from the island) as well as processing and recording the collected information. You will dive regularly and spend some time in port processing data.
Manta Ray Project – June to October 2010
During the summer months of June to October, there is the fantastic opportunity to partake in research expeditions by visiting researchers observing one of our ocean’s most charismatic residents, the Manta Ray. Their huge, easily recognizable shape inspires awe in divers and other water users; they appear as mysterious to divers as they do to science. This project was developed to find out more about the migratory population of Manta birostris that visits the coast off Ecuador each summer.
Findings have discovered at least 140 individuals - the project aims to ID more individuals and spend time in the water with the mantas to make behavioural observations. New reef systems have been identified close to the study area and the 2010 season will include work on these new sites to find out if there are any behavioural indicators as to why they visit the area. A plankton study will also be carried out to try to find out whether food levels might influence the manta’s visits to the area.
Please note: Manta Interaction The project is developed in a hands off observational manner and touching mantas is not tolerated. Full training on how to gain close proximity with a manta ray will be given in the field.
What’s Included in the Programme
- Arrival airport transfer
- Shared Accommodation
- A detailed orientation on arrival
- Dive Equipment
- Lunch on board
- Drinks on board
- Boat logistics
- Training and support
- Tanks and weights
- 24-hour Emergency contact
What’s Not Included in the Programme
- All flights
- Travel to and from Puerto Lopez
- Travel insurance
- Breakfast and Lunch when in port
- Evening meals
- Park Entrance Fee ($20 USD per 5 days)
- Dive Tuition and Training
Prices and Durations
Ecuador Marine Conservation - 3 Weeks $1,759
