RAM Higlights
 
 
         
 
  First Local Marine Biologist Resource Assessment Management (RAM) survey Training
 

RAM Reinforced Team

The month of March 2009 marks as a great start for the team as we spearheaded the second Local Marine Biologist Training for the marine aquarium trade in Papua New Guinea. Filipinos led this and three (3) of our first and finest well trained locals to date.

Actual marine underwater visual surveys assessment was done in the reefs to test their comprehension, species identification, used to estimate reef fish abundance, present number of specific challenges, including the restriction upon underwater time due to safe diving considerations, and the fact that observer mobility and underwater visibility are generally rather limited compared to the patchy distribution of target organisms. All new trainees received a 2 weeks of theory in familiarization of RAM survey protocol and week of training in in-water survey methods and species identification. In each dive sessions, the guys are handled in a one on one tutelage; the three individuals were also assessed according to their field of

 
 
 
 
Preparation of dive gears while reviewing the task and dive plan before plunging to the water.
 New National observers has been trained by Filipinos on counts and identify marine aquarium species in underwater visual surveys on snorkel and SCUBA.
 

expertise (vertebrates, invertebrates, substrates, and coral species), observers experience levels vis a vis willingness and adaptability in an Fishery Management Areas (FMA’s) to be open. And then at the end of the day, completed 2 or 3 training dives in which they followed behind and subsequently compared data with the experienced vertebrates and invertebrate’s observers on actual survey dives.

Right after the affirmation of a new batch of aquarium trade newbie’s and their designation per division (April 2009), orientations have been carried out in order to familiarize and acclimatized them on the process and every facets of their new hub. This niche once completed will be the foundation of the project’s aspirations and ideals.

  
 
New National observers trained by in identifying marine aquarium vertebrates and invertebrates.
 

The three (3) aspiring marine biologists has undergone theoretical/skills training specialties and assigned to one of the three teams of Resource Assessment and Management (RAM) each headed by a Filipino and National team leader.

These initiatives hope to boost the group’s cohesiveness and a major step to a comprehensive, fishery management and decisive stance towards the development of the fishers in the country.

 

  
       
 
 
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