Earthwatch Australia

Earthwatch needs qualified SCUBA divers to join their new seven-day research expedition: Project Manta.

Based at Queensland`s Lady Elliot Island, participants will be working with marine researcher Dr Kathy Townsend, University of Queensland.

Each manta ray has a unique underbelly spot pattern, so your task will be to identify individual manta rays off the coast using photo-identification techniques.

Data collected will help determine the biology and conservation status of these little-understood, yet majestic creatures.

No scientific skills required, just a sense of adventure and intrigue!

Weeklong teams run: 4 – 11 February, 2010 26 June – 3 July, 2010 9 – 16, October 2010

Costs $2,000 per person (must be over 18 years) to join Project Manta. SCUBA experience is necessary.

This financial contribution helps fund the research and covers the cost of all food, accommodation, equipment and training and of offsetting greenhouse gas emissions from travel.

Sites Visited:

• open water
• surrounding an atoll
• rough seas with big swells
• good clarity
• likely to see manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, tropical fish and coral

Facilities:

• Own Boat(s)
• Showers
• Own pool

• Own accommodation
• Scuba hire