Marine Conservation Program on Koh Tao
Core Conservation Program: Immerse Yourself in Marine Science
Embark on a transformative journey into the world of marine conservation with our Core Conservation Marine Science Program.
This 1-week intensive course combines hands-on experience, engaging theoretical sessions, and practical applications.
Whether you’re taking your first steps into the world of conservation or looking to expand your understanding of marine ecosystems, this program is the perfect starting point.
Core Conservationist Schedule
Designed for beginners and diving enthusiasts alike, this program equips you with essential skills to monitor marine ecosystems, identify key species, and analyze ecological data within a supportive and inspiring environment.
Core Modules
- Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP): Master the foundational techniques needed to assess marine ecosystems. Learn to identify fish, invertebrates, and substrate types, and gain a solid understanding of how to collect reliable data for conservation purposes.
- Coral Taxonomy & Identification I: Dive into the incredible diversity of coral species, exploring their roles in marine ecosystems, and learn the basics of coral identification through engaging lectures and guided dives.
- Data Review and Analysis: Learn how to organize, interpret, and present the ecological data you collect, turning raw information into actionable insights that support conservation initiatives.
Additional Dives
- Reef Safari Dives: Apply your skills while exploring and observing the incredible biodiversity of marine ecosystems.
- Assessment Dives: Refine your techniques and gain valuable feedback in a practical learning environment.
This program is not just an introduction to marine conservation – it is your gateway to making a real impact on our oceans.
Whether you are just starting your conservation journey or looking to expand your diving skills, the Core Conservationist Program offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.
Join us for a week of discovery, scuba diving, and dedication to ocean conservation.
Included in 7 Day Core Conservation Program
- 10 Conservation Dives
- 2 Conservation Diver Certifications:
- Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
- Coral Taxonomy & Identification
- Black Turtle Core Conservationist certificate of completion
- Rental of full set of premium Aqualung scuba equipment
- FREE use of a Suunto dive computer
- Log Book
- Maximum 4 students per Conservation Diver Instructor
- Black Turtle Dive customer and environmental promise
Core Conservationist Program: What You Will Learn
Are you a certified scuba diver with a passion for marine conservation? Do you dream of contributing to research efforts and gaining a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems?
If so, our 7-day Core Conservationist program on Koh Tao is your gateway to an unforgettable experience.
This comprehensive program combines intensive classroom learning with hands-on field experience, empowering you to become a confident and knowledgeable marine conservationist.
You’ll learn essential survey techniques, master identification skills, and contribute to real-world research projects, all while exploring the stunning underwater world of Koh Tao.
Koh Tao: Your Tropical Research Hub
Koh Tao, aptly named “Turtle Island,” is a diver’s paradise renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and laid-back island vibes. With its warm, clear waters and abundant biodiversity, Koh Tao provides an ideal backdrop for your marine conservation journey.
How Get to Koh Tao
Reaching Koh Tao from Bangkok is a breeze. You can choose from several convenient options:
Fly: Take a direct flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui (USM) and then hop on a ferry to Koh Tao.
Train: Travel overnight by train from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then connect to a ferry to Koh Tao.
Bus and Ferry: Combine a bus journey from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani with a ferry transfer to Koh Tao.
Koh Tao Weather
Koh Tao enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. However, diving is possible throughout the year, with water temperatures averaging a comfortable 26-29°C (79-84°F).
Your Core Conservation Journey
Our 7-day program is designed to immerse you in the world of marine conservation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what awaits you:
Day 1: Marine Ecology and Buoyancy Mastery
Morning: Introduction to Marine Ecology
Begin your journey with an introduction to marine ecology, exploring the intricate relationships between different species and their roles in maintaining a healthy ocean.
Learn about the diverse marine ecosystems found around Koh Tao, from coral reefs, granite rock pinnacles to rocky shores and open ocean.
Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing marine environments and the importance of conservation efforts.
Afternoon: Fluid Mechanics Dive
Put your buoyancy skills to the test with a Fluid Mechanics dive, focusing on mastering precise control and minimizing your impact on the delicate coral reef environment.
Learn how to fin effectively, maintain neutral buoyancy, and navigate through the water with minimal disturbance to marine life.
This dive not only enhances your diving skills but also instills responsible diving practices, ensuring you can explore the underwater world without causing harm.
Reef Safari Dive
Learn how to identify key fish families and invertebrate species, and identify substrate composition focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s reefs.
Day 2: Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
Morning: EMP Invertebrates Lecture
Dive into the fascinating world of marine invertebrates, learning about their diverse forms, functions, and ecological roles.
Discover the importance of invertebrates in marine ecosystems, from filter feeders that maintain water quality to predators that control populations of other species.
Learn how to identify key invertebrate groups, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms.
Afternoon: EMP Fish Lecture
Explore the diverse world of reef fish, learning about their adaptations, behaviors, and ecological roles.
Discover the importance of fish in maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems, from herbivores that control algae growth to predators that regulate populations of other fish species.
Learn how to identify key fish families and species, focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s coral reefs.
Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Day 3: Morning: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
EMP – Fish and Invertebrates Dives
Participate in two EMP dives, focusing on fish identification and Invertebrates species.
During the fish dive, apply your newfound knowledge to identify and document fish species, recording their abundance and behavior.
EMP Invertebrates Dive
Put your knowledge into practice with an EMP Invertebrates dive, conducting surveys to identify and document invertebrate species in their natural habitat.
Learn how to use standardized survey methods and collect data on invertebrate abundance, diversity, and distribution.
Contribute to ongoing research projects and gain valuable experience in underwater data collection.
Evening: Debriefing and Data Review
Review the data collected during the EMP dives, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations and substrate composition for understanding reef health and resilience.
Day 4: EMP Substrate Lecture and Substrate Dives
Morning: EMP Substrate Lecture
In this segment, you’ll delve into the importance of understanding the composition of the seabed, or substrate. You’ll learn:
Why substrate matters: How it influences the types of corals and other organisms that can thrive in an area.
Identifying key components: How to recognize different types of substrate, including sand, rubble, rock, and various growth forms of coral and their health status (e.g., healthy, bleached, etc.).
The role of substrate in reef health: How changes in substrate composition can indicate environmental stress or degradation.
Afternoon: Substrate Safari Dive
Embark on a Substrate Safari dive, putting your coral identification skills to the test.
Explore different reef habitats, identifying various coral species and documenting their abundance and health.
Gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of coral reef ecosystems.
EMP Substrate Dive
During the substrate dive, learn how to assess the composition of the seabed, identifying different types of coral growth forms and their health status (healthy, bleached, etc.), algae, and other substrate components.
Evening: Debriefing and Data Review
Review the data collected during the EMP dives, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations and substrate composition for understanding reef health and resilience.
Day 5: Coral Taxonomy and Identification
Morning: Coral Taxonomy Lecture
Delve into the fascinating world of coral taxonomy, learning about the different types of corals, their growth forms, and their ecological roles.
Learn how to identify key coral families and species, focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s reefs.
Afternoon: Tax Safari Dive
Continue your exploration of coral biodiversity with two Coral Taxonomy Safari dives. During these dives, you’ll focus on identifying the coral genera we covered in the lecture, applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios.
You’ll use underwater identification guides to help you confidently identify various coral genera based on their colony formation. The goal here is to develop a strong understanding of coral classification and to be able to clearly identify different genera in the field.
Evening: Debriefing and Review
Review the identification skills and coral genera learned during the Tax Safari dives. There will be a group discussion on how to distinguish different genera and the importance of this knowledge for coral conservation efforts.
Day 6: EMP Assessment and Data Review
Morning: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the day’s adventures in understanding reef health and resilience.
Afternoon: Assessment Coral Tax Dive
Put your identification skills to the test with an Assessment Coral Tax Dive, demonstrating your ability to accurately identify key coral genera during a survey.
This dive brings together what you’ve learned in the EMP Substrate and Coral Taxonomy modules, allowing you to confidently identify coral genera based on their growth forms and other key characteristics.
Receive feedback from your instructors and refine your identification techniques.
Assessment EMP Dive
Participate in an Assessment EMP dive, demonstrating your ability to conduct fish and/or inverts surveys and collect data using scientific methods.
Evening: Debriefing and Discussion
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during the dives, and share your observations with fellow conservationists.
Engage in discussions about the importance of accurate species identification for marine research and conservation.
Day 7: Data Review & Exams
Morning: Data Review
Review the data collected during the EMP dives, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations, invertebrates, and substrate composition for understanding reef health and resilience.
Afternoon: Data Review and Analysis
Review and analyze the data collected throughout the week, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the implications of your findings for marine conservation and management.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations, invertebrates, and substrate composition for understanding reef health and resilience.
Exams and Q&A
Complete exams to assess your understanding of marine conservation concepts, survey techniques, and species identification.
Engage in a Q&A session with your instructors, clarifying any remaining questions and solidifying your knowledge.
Afternoon: Farewell and Future Plans
Celebrate the completion of the program with your fellow conservationists and instructors.
Discuss your future plans, exploring opportunities to continue your involvement in marine conservation, whether through further education, volunteering, or pursuing a career in this rewarding field.
Beyond the Core Conservationist Program
The Black Turtle Dive Core Conservationist program is not just a 7-day experience; it’s a stepping stone to a lifelong journey of learning, exploration, and conservation.
We’ll provide you with resources and guidance to continue your involvement in marine research and conservation efforts, connect with local and global organizations, and become an advocate for our oceans.
7 Days – CORE CONSERVATIONIST: 19,900 THB
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Core Conservation Program in Thailand?
Embark on a transformative journey into the world of marine conservation with our Core Conservationist 7 Day Program. This 1-week intensive course combines hands-on experience, engaging theoretical sessions, and practical applications.
Whether you’re taking your first steps into the world of conservation or looking to expand your understanding of marine ecosystems, this program is the perfect starting point.
Designed for beginners and diving enthusiasts alike, this program equips you with essential skills to monitor marine ecosystems, identify key species, and analyze ecological data within a supportive and inspiring environment.
What is the cost of the Core Conservation Program on Koh Tao?
The cost of our Core Conservation Marine Conservation program is 19,900 THB.
The program is scheduled over 7 days and is suitable for divers on a limited time frame.
The Core conservationist program includes academic presentations, discussions and workshops on land, and in-water workshops and practical sessions out on the reef.
Upon completion of the Core Conservation internship, you will have completed 10 conservation training dives and gained 2 Conservation Diver certifications.
How long does the Core Conservation Program last for?
Our Core Conservation program is scheduled over 7 days and is suitable for students that do not have the time to stay on Koh Tao for the full 14 days.
This program isn’t just an introduction to marine conservation—it’s your gateway to making a real impact on our oceans. Whether you’re just starting your conservation journey or looking to expand your diving skills, the Core Conservationist Program offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.
Join us for a week of discovery, diving, and dedication to ocean conservation!
What is the minimum age the Core Conservationist Marine Conservation Program?
The minimum age to enrol on our Core Conservation program is 12 years of age.
Candidates wishing to complete this program should have a passion for marine conservation, be interested in marine science and have the ability to understand the scientific concepts we will explore during the program.
The Core Conservationist Marine Conservation program is a scientific based education program that introduces divers to the coral reef, how it functions, and the threats it faces.
Can you get a certificate for the Core Conservation Program in Thailand?
Upon successful completion of the Core Conservation Marine Conservation program, you will receive a certificate of completion for the modules you have covered.
You will receive Conservation Diver certifications for the Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP) and Coral Taxonomy & Identification certification.
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