Acropora ID Coral Diver

Acropora, the largest hard coral genus (143+ species), dominates shallow reefs globally but faces significant threats. It is the main coral used in reef restoration due to their fast growing nature, quickly providing shelter for secondary species to colonize. However, their complex taxonomy and biology present challenges. Successful usage of Acropora in reef restoration requires a good understanding the correct species to select according to the restoration site’s unique conditions. This is maximize survival and ensure success of your coral restoration project.

This 10-day course, featuring 17 classes and 20 dive sessions across Nusa Penida and Amed/Tulamben, focuses on identifying 95 Acropora species in their natural Indo-Pacific habitats. A vital course for coral reef restoration practitioners.

Prerequisites

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, or a related discipline is recommended, but not mandatory.
Minimum Advanced Diver certification, with at least 50 dives
Good buoyancy skills are a must

Includes

Ocean Gardener certified coral instructor
40+ dives in Tulamben and Nusa Penida.

Excludes

Flights to/from Bali or Raja Ampat
Dive equipment, food, accommodation and transportation to the course location are not provided

If you need help arranging food, accommodations, or transportation, please indicate in the booking comments, and we can arrange them for you.

Cancellation Policy

Full refund if cancelled 7 days before the event.

Day 1-4: Nusa Ceningan

The reefs of Nusa Penida have the best Acropora cover and diversity in the area. The powerful and rich current, on top of the upwelling of deeper,cooler waters, offers the best environmental conditions for Acropora colonies to reach monumental size. The diversity of species in the Nusa Penida marine protected area is just mind-blowing.

Day 5-9: Amed/Tulamben

The reefs around Tulamben and Amed offer calm and very easy conditions for diving. The reefs here have high coral recruitment. Since the conditions are very different, the species of Acropora found here are very different and provides a good complement for what we have seen in Nusa Penida.

With both dive sites, you will get a very good overview of the different conditions Acropora can thrive and how they adapt to these specific conditions.