You can read our scientific publications here. Read on for more details of our current research projects.

Our scientific work generally focuses on species-level population ecology and conservation biology, with considerable overlap between the two areas. Our major ongoing research programmes are focused on manta rays (Manta alfredi and M. birostris) and whale shark (Rhincodon typus). These huge plankton-feeders congregate year-round in the highly-productive coastal waters along the southern Mozambican coast, presenting an ideal opportunity for research on these huge yet enigmatic species. Other research projects also examine some of the more unique and/or threatened species found in the area.

Our research projects are categorised by species or group at the links below:

POPULATION ECOLOGY OF MANTA RAYS

Both reef manta ray (M. alfredi) and giant manta ray (M. birostris) are found together in Mozambican waters, one of the only locations where this occurs. Our research aims to define their population structure and size, identify local critical habitats and to obtain basic biological and ecological data on these gigantic rays.

WHALE SHARK ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION

Juvenile whale sharks aggregate in high densities to feed along the southern Mozambican coast, which has led to the development of a burgeoning tourism industry based around snorkelling with the sharks. Our research is designed to provide data on the population structure, migratory patterns and the conservation requirements of these threatened sharks.

SHARKS AND RAYS: BIOLOGY, BIODIVERSITY AND FISHERIES

Mozambican waters contain a diverse elasmobranch fauna, including many that are seldom seen elsewhere. We are tracking population trends in some fished species, assessing catches of exploited sharks and rays and working to document the poorly-known biodiversity along this coast. One major discovery was that Mozambique appears to be the only place in the world where divers can view the enormous smalleye stingray (Dasyatis microps), which has only recently been recorded from the Indian Ocean.

SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION

Five of the world’s seven sea turtle species are found within Mozambican waters, all of which are either endangered or critically endangered. Sadly, though all sea turtles are fully protected in Mozambican waters, all are still caught illegally for food. We are working to track the extent of poaching locally, and to assist the authorities with enforcement.