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Coral Reefs 24 February 2021Podcast: The Rainforests of the SeaThis episode of Ocean Matters explores the state of reefs in some of the most remote parts of our planet. Join us on this scientific adventure -
Improving MPA Management 19 February 2021Expanding Marine Protected Areas Could Make a Huge Difference to the Health of the Oceans“Action is the antidote to despair,” says Prof Callum Roberts. Here, he describes his work with MPAs and how they are a rising force for hope in ocean conservation. -
Improving MPA Management 11 February 2021Local Heros and Global Collaboration can Protect Threatened Oceans“It’s time we became more inclusive for the sake of our the oceans,” says marine conservation pioneer, Dr. Asha de Vos. She recently chaired the Ocean Optimism: Solutions for a Threatened Ocean seminar. Here, she describes how her work ties into that topic.
What we do
Our research programme is advancing our understanding of Marine Protected Areas - so they can be better managed to provide the maximum amount of protection. Our highly collaborative and interdisciplinary projects are led by some of the world's leading marine scientists who are pushing the boundaries of their fields.
A healthy ocean is
vital to sustaining all
life on Earth – not just
the animals and plants
that live below the waves
70%
of the Earth is ocean
91%
of species in the ocean are yet to be discovered
70%
of the oxygen we breathe in made in the ocean
OUR RESEARCH
The British Indian Ocean Territory is a unique place to undertake scientific research. This large Marine Protected Area is located in the middle of one of the Earth's most exploited oceans. It is an incredible opportunity to create an ocean observatory - a place where scientists can investigate complex marine ecosystems.
Coral Reef Resilience
Despite containing some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, the impact of climate change has still been acutely felt in BIOT.
Sentinel Species Research
Our work is building a detailed picture of how important and mobile species such as turtles, seabirds, sharks and rays use the Marine Protected Area
Improving MPA Management
Scientific research carried out in BIOT is being used to inform the management of the Marine Protected Area and support the UK's international commitments such as Sustainable Development Goal 14.
Scientists
More than 60 scientists from 22 institutions and six countries are working together to uncover the ocean's hidden secrets - and find new ways to protect it