The waters around the multitude of Indonesian islands abound with coral reefs making them favorite diving destinations. Below diver depths a very special old fish has survived for millennia, the Indonesian Coelacanth. We want to photograph and observe these fish to see if individuals can be distinguished and to see how deep they go. Like their cousins in Madagascar, these fish frequent caves and ledges by day. Although this has not yet been observed, they are believed to migrate up the water column at night.
The sea’s biodiversity is a dazzling mosaic of life, ranging from microscopic plankton to massive whales. Vibrant coral reefs, mysterious deep-sea vents, and expansive coastal ecosystems all harbor unique species that form intricate food webs. This remarkable variety not only supports marine health but also plays a critical role in sustaining global ecological balance.
A submersible is the ideal tool for this kind of observation. We will incorporate specialized low light camera technology to document these fish without introducing harsh light that could disorient the fish.