Marine Conservation Program on Koh Tao
Reef Specialist: Immerse Yourself in Coral Reef Conservation
Completion of the Conservation Specialist program is a prerequisite for this marine conservation 14-day program.
Take your marine conservation knowledge further with our Reef Specialist program, a 2-week advanced course designed to build upon the skills and knowledge gained in the Conservation Specialist program.
This course focuses on coral reef restoration, marine pollution, and artificial reef projects, while continuing to refine your practical skills and research capabilities.
Reef Specialist Program Core Modules
- BTD Marine Pollution: Understand the causes, impacts, and mitigation of marine pollution, with a focus on practical assessment and monitoring techniques.
- Coral Taxonomy & Identification III: Expand your knowledge of coral genus, focusing on advanced identification and ecological roles within reef systems.
- Coral Restoration Theory & Techniques: Gain hands-on experience in coral restoration, exploring techniques such as site preparation, attachment methods, and monitoring to support reef recovery
- Artificial Reefs Theory & Techniques: Learn about the design, planning, and ecological benefits of artificial reefs.
As part of this module, you’ll create your own artificial reef design project as a practical exercise, allowing you to apply your knowledge and develop innovative solutions for supporting reef ecosystems in a simulated context.
Independent Project
Build upon the foundation of your Independent Project from the Conservation Specialist program by delving further into your chosen topic.
This phase allows you to expand your initial work, explore new angles, and produce tangible results, whether through research, educational initiatives, or innovative conservation strategies.
Additional Dives
Practice and Application: These additional dives are designed to help you solidify your understanding of marine ecosystems and scientific methods.
You’ll have the opportunity to refine your skills, apply conservation techniques, and process the knowledge gained throughout the course in a practical underwater setting.
This program is ideal for those passionate about coral reef conservation and restoration, providing you with the advanced tools and experience to make a tangible impact.
Join a team of like-minded conservationists, deepen your expertise, and become an active participant in the restoration of marine ecosystems.
Included in Our Reef Specialist 14 Day Program
- 12 Conservation Dives
- 3 Conservation Diver Certification:
- Coral Restoration Theory & Techniques
- Artificial Reef Theory & Techniques
- Advanced Coral Taxonomy & Identification
- 1 Black Turtle Dive Certification
- Black Turtle Dive Marine Pollution
- Black Turtle Reef Specialist 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
REEF SPECIALIST: 30.000 THB
4 WEEKS Package
Conservation Specialist + Reef Specialist Combination:
60,000 THB
* The offer applies when the full pack is reserved at the time of booking.
Conservation Reef Specialist: What You Will Learn
Are you a certified scuba diver with a passion for coral reefs and a desire to contribute to their protection? Do you dream of exploring vibrant underwater ecosystems, understanding the complexities of coral health, and actively participating in conservation efforts?
If so, our 14-day Reef Specialist program on Koh Tao is the perfect opportunity to turn your passion into action.
This comprehensive program combines in-depth classroom learning, hands-on field experience, and specialized certifications, empowering you to become a knowledgeable and skilled reef conservationist.
You’ll master advanced coral identification techniques, design artificial reefs, gain expertise in ecological monitoring, contribute to coral restoration projects, and learn about the impacts of marine pollution, all while exploring the stunning underwater world of Koh Tao.
Koh Tao: Your Coral Reef Classroom
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 reef conservation journey.
How to Get to Koh Tao
Koh Tao from Bangkok is easily accessible. 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’s 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 Reef Specialist Journey
Our 14-day program is designed to immerse you into the world of coral reef conservation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what awaits you:
Coral Reef Ecology, Monitoring, and Identification
Day 1 Morning: Marine Pollution
Black Turtle Dive Marine Pollution Certification
Embark on a specialized journey into the world of marine pollution with the Black Turtle Dive Marine Pollution Certification.
Learn about the sources, impacts, and solutions to marine pollution, focusing on plastic pollution and chemical contaminants.
Gain a deeper understanding of the threats facing our oceans and how scuba divers can contribute to mitigating these challenges.
Dive Against Debris and Data Analysis
Participate in a Dive Against Debris survey, learning how to identify and remove marine debris while contributing to a global database of ocean pollution.
Understand the impacts of marine debris on marine life and ecosystems, and how divers can play a crucial role in combating this threat.
Afternoon: Data Review and Analysis
Review and analyze the data collected during the Dive Against Debris survey, learning how to categorize and quantify different types of marine debris.
Discuss the implications of your findings for marine conservation and management.
Day 2 OFF
Day 3
Coral Taxonomy III Lecture
Dive deeper into the fascinating world of coral taxonomy, expanding your knowledge of coral families, colony formations, and ecological roles.
Learn advanced identification techniques, focusing on distinguishing subtle differences between coral species.
Explore the diversity of corals found on Koh Tao’s reefs, from branching and massive corals to encrusting and solitary forms.
Afternoon: Tax Safari III Dives
Continue your exploration of coral biodiversity with two Coral Taxonomy III 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 confidently identify the different coral genera found around Koh Tao.
Debriefing and Identification
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during the dive, and share your observations with fellow conservationists.
Participate in a coral identification workshop, using resources and expert guidance to refine your identification skills.
Day 4
Morning: Coral Taxonomy Review
Review and consolidate your knowledge of coral species identification
Participate in quizzes and discussions to reinforce your learning and prepare for the upcoming assessment dives.
Afternoon: Coral Taxonomy Safari (All)
Embark on two comprehensive Tax Safari dives, focusing on identifying a wide range of coral species.
Apply your identification skills in a real-world setting, documenting species diversity and abundance.
A coral taxonomy safari dive is like a treasure hunt for coral enthusiasts! It’s a dive specifically designed to find, identify, and document different coral species in their natural habitat.
What Happens on a Coral Taxonomy Safari Dive?
Preparation: Before the dive, participants typically review coral identification resources, such as field guides or underwater slates, to refresh their knowledge of key characteristics and distinguishing features of various coral families and species.
Dive Briefing: The dive leader or diving instructor provides a briefing, outlining the dive plan, highlighting specific coral species to look for, and emphasizing responsible diving practices to avoid damaging the delicate coral reef environment.
Underwater Exploration: Divers embark on a guided underwater exploration, carefully observing the reef and searching for different coral species. They may focus on specific zones or depths to maximize their chances of encountering a diverse range of corals.
Identification and Documentation: Students use their knowledge and identification resources to identify the coral species they encounter. They may take photographs or record observations on underwater slates to document their findings.
Debriefing and Identification
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during the dive, and share your observations with fellow conservationists.
Participate in a coral identification workshop, using resources and expert guidance to refine your identification skills.
Discussion and Learning: After the dive, students gather to discuss their observations, compare notes, and confirm identifications.
The dive leader or instructor provides feedback and shares additional insights into the coral species encountered, their ecological roles, and the challenges they face.
Day 5
Morning: Study Time & E-learning
Dedicate time to self-study and online learning modules, reinforcing your knowledge of marine ecology, conservation strategies, and research methods.
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the the day’s adventures.
Afternoon: Independent Project Continuation
Continue developing and refining the independent research project you began in the Conservation Specialist program. Use this time to expand on your project, incorporating new research findings and enhancing your methodologies.
Consult with your instructors to receive guidance and support in improving your project. Conduct a literature review, building on the work you’ve done previously and identifying further knowledge gaps in your chosen topic.
Day 6 OFF
Day 7
Independent Research Project
Conduct a literature review for your independent research project, exploring existing research and knowledge gaps in your chosen topic.
Refine your research question and develop a detailed methodology for your project.
Share your research ideas and progress with fellow conservationists, receiving feedback and support from your peers and instructors.
Independent Project – Data Collection
Begin collecting data for your independent research project, applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the week.
Conduct surveys, observations, or experiments relevant to your research question.
Afternoon: EMP Dives (Ecological Monitoring Program)
Participate in two Ecological Monitoring Program dives, focusing on different aspects of the reef ecosystem, such as fish populations, invertebrate diversity, or substrate composition.
Keep practicing how to conduct standardized surveys, identify key species, and collect data using scientific methods.
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 different aspects of the reef ecosystem for understanding reef health and resilience.
Day 8
Coral Restoration and Monitoring
Morning: Coral Restoration Lecture
Dive into the world of coral restoration, learning about the different techniques used to restore damaged reefs and promote coral growth.
Understand the importance of coral restoration for maintaining healthy reef ecosystems and supporting marine biodiversity.
Explore various coral gardening methods, including coral propagation, transplantation, and artificial reef structures.
Afternoon: Coral Restoration Monitoring Techniques
Learn how to monitor the success of coral restoration projects, using standardized methods to assess coral growth, survival, and overall reef health.
Gain practical experience in data collection and analysis, contributing to ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Evening: Debriefing and Discussion
Review the day’s learning materials, discuss the challenges and opportunities in coral restoration, and share your insights with fellow conservationists.
Day 9:
Coral Restoration Monitoring Techniques and Data Review
Morning: Coral Restoration Techniques
Participate in hands-on workshops to learn and practice various coral restoration techniques, and attachment methods.
Gain practical experience in handling and caring for corals, contributing to the success of restoration projects.
Afternoon: Data Review and Analysis
Review and analyze data collected from previous dives and surveys, including EMP data and coral restoration monitoring data.
Learn how to interpret results, draw meaningful conclusions, and contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Discuss the day’s activities, share your experiences with different restoration techniques, and continue working on your independent research project.
Day 10 OFF
Day 11
Artificial Reef Lecture
Explore the world of artificial reefs, learning about their design, construction, and ecological benefits.
Understand how artificial reefs can provide habitat for marine life, enhance biodiversity, and support fisheries.
Discuss the different types of artificial reefs, from purpose-built structures to repurposed materials, and their suitability for different environments.
Afternoon: Artificial Reef Dive
Embark on a dive to explore an artificial reef, observing the marine life that has colonized the structure and assessing its ecological impact.
Learn how to monitor and evaluate the success of artificial reefs in enhancing marine biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems.
Evening: Artificial Reef Design Project
Design your own artificial reef, taking into account factors such as location, materials, deployment methods, and the target species that will benefit from the reef.
This individual project will require you to plan each aspect of the reef, ensuring that your design is both ecologically sustainable and practically feasible.
Apply your knowledge of marine ecology and engineering principles to create a sustainable and effective artificial reef design.
Day 12:
Artificial Reef Dives and Data Review
Morning: Two Artificial Reef Dives
Participate in another two Artificial Reef dives to explore a different artificial reef, comparing and contrasting its design and ecological impact with the previous reef.
Continue observing marine life and documenting species diversity and abundance.
Afternoon: Data Review and Analysis
Review and analyze data collected from the artificial reef dives, comparing and contrasting the ecological performance of different reef structures.
Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of using artificial reefs for marine conservation and restoration.
Share your observations and insights from the artificial reef dives with fellow conservationists.
Engage in discussions about the future of artificial reefs and their role in mitigating the impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems.
Day 13
Independent Project and Presentation Preparation
Morning: Independent Project – Data Analysis and Interpretation
Focus on analyzing and interpreting the data you’ve collected for your independent research project.
Draw conclusions from your findings and prepare your final presentation, summarizing your research and its implications for marine conservation.
Afternoon: Independent Project – Presentation Preparation
Refine your presentation materials, ensuring clarity, conciseness, and visual appeal.
Practice your presentation delivery, receiving feedback and support from your instructors and peers.
Day 14
Morning: Artificial Reef Design Presentation
Students showcase their understanding of marine ecosystems and engineering principles by designing their own artificial reef.
Students begin by introducing the concept of artificial reefs and their purpose in marine conservation and restoration.
Objectives: Students should clearly outline the specific objectives of their artificial reef design, such as enhancing biodiversity, providing habitat for specific species, or mitigating the impacts of human activities on natural reefs.
Site Selection and Environmental Considerations
Location: Participants present their chosen location for the artificial reef, explaining the rationale behind their selection based on factors such as water depth, currents, substrate type, and proximity to existing natural reefs.
Environmental Impact Assessment: They discuss potential environmental impacts of their artificial reef design, considering factors such as water flow, sedimentation, and potential interactions with existing marine life.
Reef Design and Materials
Structure: Participants showcase their artificial reef design, detailing the shape, size, and complexity of the structure. They explain how the design promotes colonization by marine life, provides suitable habitat for target species, and minimizes potential negative impacts on the surrounding environment.
Materials: They discuss the materials used in their artificial reef construction, emphasizing sustainability, durability, and compatibility with marine life. They may explore options such as concrete, steel, recycled materials, or natural substrates.
Colonisation and Monitoring
Attracting Marine Life: Participants explain how their artificial reef design will attract and support a diverse range of marine species, considering factors such as habitat complexity, food availability, and shelter from predators.
Monitoring Plan: Students outline a plan for monitoring the colonization and ecological performance of their artificial reef, detailing methods for assessing fish populations, invertebrate diversity, coral growth, and overall reef health.
Presentation and Discussion
Our Artificial Reef Design Presentation is a valuable opportunity for participants to demonstrate their understanding of marine conservation principles, apply their creativity and problem-solving skills, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for protecting and restoring coral reef ecosystems.
It’s a testament to their commitment to marine conservation and their potential to make a real difference in the world.
Afternoon: Independent Project Presentations
Present your independent research findings to your peers and instructors, showcasing your research skills and contributing to the collective knowledge of marine conservation.
Receive feedback and engage in discussions about your research, exploring potential applications and future directions.
Afternoon: Q&A Session
Participate in a Q&A session with your instructors, clarifying any remaining questions and solidifying your understanding of key concepts and techniques.
Celebrate the completion of the program with your fellow conservationists and instructors, sharing stories and experiences from the past two weeks.
Final Exams
Complete any final exams, demonstrating your comprehensive understanding of marine conservation principles and practices, with a focus on coral reef ecology, monitoring, and restoration.
Discuss your future plans and how you can continue your involvement in marine conservation, whether through further education, volunteering, or pursuing a career in this rewarding field.
Beyond the Reef Specialist Program
Our Reef Specialist program is not just a 14-day experience; it’s a springboard for 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 a true advocate for the protection of coral reefs.
Join the Reef Specialist Movement
Are you ready to dive deeper into the world of coral reef conservation and become a Reef Specialist? Join the Black Turtle Dive 14-day program on Koh Tao and contribute to the protection of these vital ecosystems.
REEF SPECIALIST PROGRAM: 30,000 THB
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Reef Specialist 14 Day Conservation program?
Take your marine conservation knowledge further with our Reef Specialist program, a 2-week advanced course designed to build upon the skills and knowledge gained in the Conservation Specialist program.
This course focuses on reef restoration, marine pollution, and artificial reef projects, while continuing to refine your practical skills and research capabilities.
Completion of the Conservation Specialist program is a prerequisite for this course.
What is the cost of the Reef Specialist 14 Day Conservation program?
The cost of our Reef Specialist Conservation program is 30,000 THB.
The program is scheduled over 14 days and follows on from our Conservation Specialist 14 day program.
Upon completion of the Conservation Specialist Conservation program, you will have completed 12 conservation training dives and earned 3 Conservation Diver certifications and a Black Turtle Dive certificate of completion.
How long does the Reef Specialist program last for?
Our Reef Specialist Conservation program is a 2-week advanced course designed to build upon the skills and knowledge gained in the Conservation Specialist program.
This Reef Specialist course focuses on reef restoration, marine pollution, and artificial reef projects, while continuing to refine your practical skills and research capabilities.
What is the minimum age for the Reef Specialist program?
The minimum age to enrol on our Reef Specialist program is 12 years of age.
Build upon the foundation of your Independent Project from the Conservation Specialist program by delving further into your chosen topic.
This phase allows you to expand your initial work, explore new angles, and produce tangible results, whether through research, educational initiatives, or innovative conservation strategies.
Do you get a certificate for the Reef Specialist program ?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the Reef Specialist 14 day program , you will receive 3 Conservation Diver certifications and a Black Turtle Dive Certificate of Completion.
This program is ideal for those passionate about reef conservation and restoration, providing you with the advanced tools and experience to make a tangible impact.
Join a team of like-minded conservationists, deepen your expertise, and become an active participant in the restoration of marine ecosystems.
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