REEF LIFE SURVEY
Reef Life Survey is a non-profit citizen science program in which trained SCUBA divers undertake standardised underwater visual surveys of reef biodiversity on rocky and coral reefs around the world.
Large amounts of data on a broad range of species can be collected within a short dive period.
The strength of Reef Life Survey lies in its rigorous methodology and the high level of engagement from the diving community. By combining scientific precision with the enthusiasm and local knowledge of citizen scientists, the program has amassed an extensive database on marine life.
This information is invaluable for researchers and conservationists in understanding the complex dynamics of reef ecosystems and in formulating effective management strategies.
Methodology
The survey methods involve divers recording fish and invertebrate species seen along underwater transects using underwater pencils & paper. The complete methods cover the majority of plants and animals greater than 2.5cm in length.
Fishes are surveyed in two 5 m wide by 5 m high bands, parallel with the 50 m transect line and invertebrates + cryptic fishes are surveyed in two 1 m wide by 2 m high bands. Photo-quadrats are also taken at 2.5 m intervals along the transect line.
Get involved with RLS
Both divers and non-divers can volunteer with the organisation, check out their website to learn more about how you can get involved.
Remote Research
In late 2023, Scott Bennett and Graham Edgar from the GSR Research Partnership sailed 1500 nautical miles across the Great Southern Reef surveying biodiversity as part of the Reef Life Survey lap of Australia.
The team revisited dozens of sites that were first surveyed back in the late 1990’s to understand how the reefs have changed.
In the video below Scott Bennett reflects the trip. He poignantly notes, “Early detection of unexpected changes is fundamental. It's how we begin to strategise and implement effective restoration and conservation strategies.”
2024 Training Program
In February, 2024, Reef Life Survey teams in South Australia and Victoria undertook biodiversity surveys at 14 survey sites across the Great Southern Reef. The team in SA returned to the Fleurieu Peninsula to continue their ongoing monitoring of marine biodiversity within the Encounter Marine Park, gathering data to help detect change within this unique coastal region. Meanwhile, the Victorian RLS team revisited long-term monitoring sites at Port Phillip Bay, continuing some of the longest-running reef surveys in the world.
Image: Toni Cooper
