The month-long Ocean Stewards Canyon Connections offshore research expedition onboard the 72 ft Research Vessel Angra Pequena, was to gather data that will be used to assist in the understanding of the biodiversity and ecology of the canyons and their shelf regions.
Collected eggs and larvae of fish, small organisms floating near the ocean surface as well as mapped measurements in the water column. Baited Remote Underwater Vehicle (BRUV) and Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle (ROV) data were collected on the benthic (seafloor) communities and the first pelagic (open ocean) BRUVs were trialled.
The experience was an eye-opener for the diverse group of marine biology students who come from all walks of life. Despite having an academic interest in the marine field, for many of the students it was their first time out at sea.
Jamila Janna, a 2018 Ocean Steward and UKZN marine biology honours student, said that for her the experience went beyond reading a textbook or watching research videos. “It was special being out at sea with scientists and crew. BRUV work required a lot of physical power which I enjoyed especially when we had to retrieve the plankton net. We looked at corals in our coastline and the fish that live there, it was an important expedition because we don’t have that much data on what happens in the benthos of South Africa. Doing this research for a long period of time will allow us to see if there are any changes that are occurring at the benthos. This will also help inform decision making related to the protection of our oceans moving forward.”
The young scientists had the opportunity to experience marine science research first hand while working with experienced scientists from a variety of fields. They were exposed to a range of offshore sampling techniques and research equipment. Their efforts will assist in identifying offshore areas in need of protection in support of the proposed expanded Phakisa Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network in South Africa.
Dr Jean Harris, Executive Director of WILDOCEANS said – “We hope to build support amongst public and ocean stakeholders for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) by creating awareness of their value for provision of ecosystem services, ocean risk mitigation, food security, ecotourism benefits and moderation of climate change.”
This year’s data collection focused on BRUV and ichthyoplankton work in areas where ROV had already been collected. In total, the Spatial Solutions project has identified 127 fish species and ROV surveys collected over 60 hours of seabed filming.
Dr Harris said that since its inception in 2015, the Ocean Stewards programme has grown to include sixty-nine third year, Honours and Masters students from 5 universities across the country. The programme provides a research platform for their projects, including research equipment and operational costs. “We’re grateful to all our partners who’ve given us support on the programme. I’d like to thank Grindrod Bank and several other partners including ACEP, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the South African Institute of African Biodiversity (SAIAB), the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (UKZN), University of Zululand (UNIZUL), the Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and the KZN Sharks board,” she added.
Dr Angus Paterson, Managing Director of SAIAB said the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity strongly believes in sustainable development of the Blue Economy. “Government cannot do this alone and thus joint initiatives with Industry and NGO’s are required. WILDOCEANS Ocean Stewards programme is an excellent example of a partnership between Government and a leading NGO.”
17 new Ocean Stewards joined the programme in April 2017. In 2018 an additional 16 students have been recruited. This year has seen an increase in the intake of students at Honours level, resulting in 10 new Ocean Stewards; 6 from the University of Zululand (UNIZUL) and 4 from UKZN. The remaining 6 Ocean Stewards joining this year are all final year undergraduate marine biology students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
WILDTRUST (registered as the Wildlands Conservation Trust - IT No: 4329/1991/PMB)