A Team Of Researchers Begin Second Expedition To Explore Maldives’ Coral Reefs Under Noo Raajje Program

Launched in 2020, ‘Noo Raajje’ is a collaboration between the Government of Maldives and Blue Prosperity Coalition that is a program that will consist of five years’ worth of projects to gain deeper scientific knowledge of the Maldives ocean, while building up Maldivians’ capacity to conserve their marine ecosystems. 

As part of the program, the second scientific expedition to explore and study the island nation’s ocean and coral reefs by a team of researchers from the United States as well as local scientists from the Maldives Marine Research Institute – began yesterday. Accordingly, they set sail on a 22-day scientific voyage on a chartered local safari boat, Carpe Novo.

This expedition will survey the health of coral reef habitats and fish populations with a particular focus on Huvadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Addu and North and South Male’ Atolls. The scientists will utilize research methods such as scuba diving surveys that will study fish populations, coral reef health for a better understanding of the composition and health of nearshore marine habitats as well as water quality samples and baited underwater cameras to collect information on larger sea creatures like sharks and turtles.

In the light of the ongoing pandemic, the boat and visiting scientists will have no contact with Maldivian communities. Furthermore, prior to boarding the boat, mandatory quarantines were in place for both scientists and crews. The expedition is being conducted under strict COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure the well-being of participants and surrounding communities.

The first expedition by Noo Raajje was carried out in January 2020 in which 16 atolls were surveyed primarily in the central and northern part of the Maldives. In early April, the findings of the first expedition will be made available to the public.

Together, these two expeditions will form the first-ever archipelago-wide assessment of ocean health in the Maldives whereas the data collected will be used by policymakers on ways to sustainably manage fisheries, boost incomes and improve ocean health across the archipelago.

Upon completion of the expedition, the analyzed data will inform the Government and Noo Raajje Partners in their marine spatial planning efforts, helping preserve important fish stocks, ensure sustainable tourism practices and safeguard ocean health. 

(Photo: Noo Raajje)