Saving the Oceans, One Dive at a Time.

Reef Fish ID

Rainbow Reef has partnered with the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), who have generated one of the largest marine life databases in the world.

IMAGE: Rainbow Reef has partnered with the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), who have generated one of the largest marine life databases in the world

As part of protecting the marine ecosystem, and to know where we are making an impact, it is important for scientists to know where different species of fish are thriving and where invasive species are having a negative impact. Scientists, researchers and conservation organizations rely on this data to study different fish species and to offer advice about where humans are having a major impact and what can be done about it. Unfortunately, there are far too few scientists to constantly monitor and survey these fish!

Through the Volunteer Fish Survey Project, REEF educates recreational divers on how to properly survey for fish on each of their dives. They can then contribute this information on numbers and species of fish to the database used by scientists and researchers world-wide.

With knowledge, training, and the opportunity to get involved these marine citizen scientists are making significant contributions to help keep our reefs healthy and giving a new meaning to literally making your dives count! In contributing to the REEF database, divers can also create a “life-time fish list” and keep track of all of the different species they have seen throughout their diving careers.

Rainbow Reef is excited to introduce our divers to this program and give them the chance to start their own “lifetime fish list” while learning about fish identification and contributing to this important work.

In 2024 the database surpassed 300,000 surveys conducted by over 16,000 volunteer divers.

In 2024 the database surpassed 300,000 surveys conducted by over 16,000 volunteer divers.

Orientation and Fish ID class at REEF headquarters or in the Rainbow Reef classroom

Fish Survey Events will consist of the following:

The event begins with a morning class and orientation at 9:15am, followed by a two tank afternoon dive trip to find and survey all of the amazing species that can be found on our reefs! It will include a starter pack for your fish survey adventures including a dive slate, underwater survey materials and a quick reference for Fish ID in the Tropical Western Atlantic. Click [ HERE ] to see Fish ID and other specialty courses offered by our partner, Rainbow Reef.

The Reef Fish Surveys are open to anyone at least 10 years old. For those who are Open Water certified, the PADI AWARE Fish Id specialty offers an opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in identifying marine life!

Call to reserve your spot: (305) 451-7171

If you'd like to receive special invites to all of our upcoming Conservation Events please email info@oceanconservationfoundation.org to be added to the list.


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