News
Three-fold Success for the Marine Megafauna Foundation
Marine Megafauna Foundation receives recognition as PeerJ’s Top 10 Marine Biology papers for three collaborative scientific publications
The Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF) are recognized globally for developing enduring conservation solutions from pioneering research on some of the world’s largest ocean giants, whale sharks and manta rays. Recently, two scientific publications they have lead-authored and one collaborative article, were listed in PeerJ’s Top 10 Marine Biology papers since the journals inception.
PeerJ is an open-access platform for scientists to publish and showcase their work. This collection of 10 articles represents some of the most noteworthy marine biology research, which PeerJ has published up to September 2015. The list was compiled by examining a range of article level metrics – many of the publications are already highly cited, have been widely tweeted, and had a high number of page views.
As the most read article in PeerJ history, it seems size does matter. World scientists teamed up to analyze trends and review what is currently known about 25 of the ocean’s largest marine species, in Sizing Ocean Giants. Dr Andrea Marshall, Principal Scientist for MMF’s Manta Ray program, contributed information for the largest batoid, the giant manta ray, drawing on data obtained from the several locations where their manta ray projects take place.
Credit: Simon Pierce
Also from the manta ray team, MMF researchers explored alternative methods to obtain DNA by collecting body surface mucus from wild manta rays, using a toothbrush for Evaluating manta ray mucus as an alternative DNA source for population genetics study. This study was the first example involving underwater collection of mucus by scuba divers and was shown to be an effective, low-cost option to traditional sampling techniques that could create opportunities to apply this method to other shark and ray species.
Utilizing other pioneering research techniques, the Marine Megafauna whale shark team used paired-laser photogrammetry to improve size and demographic estimates for whale sharks, at two coastal aggregation sites in the Western Indian Ocean; Tofo Beach in southern Mozambique and Mafia Island, Tanzania. Results of the population segregation by size and sex observed here and elsewhere, reinforces the need to determine the whereabouts of newborn sharks, immature female sharks, and mature sharks of both sexes to improve conservation and management for this globally threatened species.
“We are proud to have our papers recognized by PeerJ and pleased that our work resonated with the scientific community. As conservation biologists we strive to contribute information that will push the envelope on what we know about these vulnerable species so that we can better protect them. We look forward to continuing our groundbreaking research on these threatened ocean giants.”
– Andrea Marshall, MMF Co-Founder
To find out more about the Marine Megafauna Foundation and their work visit www.marinemegafauna.org.
Blogs
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
In a video recorded exclusively for Scubaverse.com, Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of new scuba diving training agency NovoScuba.
Find out more about NovoScuba at www.novoscuba.com.
News
Charting New Waters; NovoScuba Goes Global with the Launch of their Revolutionary Dive Training Agency!
Discover a New Era of Dive Education: NovoScuba Brings Innovation to the Surface! Fully ISO Certified and Equipped with Cutting-Edge Technology.
With a combined experience spanning over a century in the diving industry, a team of accomplished dive store owners, managers, and professionals unveils NovoScuba, a ground-breaking dive training agency poised to redefine the benchmarks of underwater education. Launching in May 2024, NovoScuba promises a revolutionary approach to dive training. Their vision is to make diving accessible to everyone, share success within the dive community and emphasise positive interactions with the planet.
NovoScuba’s global debut marks a significant milestone in the dive industry. Driven by a vision to challenge convention and harness the power of technology, NovoScuba aims to revolutionise the dive training landscape through its innovative business model, which is digitally native, making it the most technologically advanced dive training agency to date.
“We recognised the need for change in the dive training industry and saw an opportunity to leverage technology, and redefine existing business models to create something truly innovative,” said Mark Spiers, CEO of NovoScuba.
NovoScuba’s platform offers state of the art training programmes ranging from introductory up to professional diving, including various specialties. All programmes meet international standards and ISO certifications are in place. This commitment to shared success, accessibility and positive results for the planet, all at a cost effective and affordable level, is what will make NovoScuba stand out.
“Our deep understanding of traditional pain points for the industry, combined with our digitally native approach positions NovoScuba as a game-changer in dive education. Offering unparalleled initiatives such as student subscription, open access to all course materials, pay as you certify, no stock required, monthly membership payments, payment in local currencies, one-click certifications, and membership freezing, NovoScuba is set to redefine the industry. Available in 13 languages, at launch, the NovoScuba courses are written for the modern divers, with a focus on up-to-date content, interactive learning, and an engaging platform,” Mark Spiers concluded.
NovoScuba is challenging a change in the industry, redefining established traditional systems, and ushering in a new standard of excellence, support, and partnership. Their collaborations with dive stores, pros and underwater enthusiasts won’t demand exclusivity, prioritising earned loyalty, and an understanding that their Member’s success is key to their own.
NovoScuba
Diving Redefined.
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