Research Areas

The Indian Ocean provides an incredible scientific opportunity. The programme allows researchers to take an integrated and interdisciplinary approach to better understand the role of complex marine ecosystems for highly mobile species such as sharks, turtles and seabirds. Because the Indian Ocean is being negatively impacted by global warming and associated coral bleaching events, it also provides an important study site to explore the resilience that large marine reserves provide to ocean habitats.
The impact of climate change on coral reefs has been acutely felt across the Indian Ocean, including areas previously shown to be some of the healthiest coral reefs in the region.
Using a variety of techniques and cutting-edge technology, we are tracking highly mobile species as they travel around Marine Protected Areas and across the Indian Ocean.
We use research findings to inform the management needs of MPAs and support the international commitments to Sustainable Development Goal 14.