CITIZEN SCIENCE RESEARCH ON GIANT CORALS
SURVEYING, PHOTOGRAPHING AND MAPPING LARGE CORAL COLONIES
Map the Giants is a global initiative focused on identifying, mapping, and protecting the largest coral formations. By engaging divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts, the project gathers crucial data on coral health, biodiversity, and environmental threats.
Using GPS mapping, underwater photography, and community observations, citizen scientists help track coral growth and bleaching, aiding researchers in conservation efforts.
Map The Giants is powered by MARHE
HOW DOES IT WORK ?
Get your Gear
Pack dive equipment, measuring tape, pencil and slate, camera, area map, gps device and a willing dive buddy.
Diving
Head out to the reef and search for giant coral colonies. If you find one, you can begin your data collection.
Data Collection
Measure the colony, note the species, take wide angle and close-up pictures, depth and location data.
Data Submission
Review the data and submit to the Map The Giants websites to be added to their global map of corals.
WHY DO WE CONDUCT MAP THE GIANT SURVEYS?
The project raises awareness by involving local communities and recreational divers in marine research. Educational workshops, interactive maps, and virtual dives make it accessible to a wider audience.
The collected data supports marine protected areas and informs policies to safeguard these vital ecosystems.
The initiative supports marine protected areas by providing data that can influence policy decisions, helping governments and conservation organizations prioritize coral reef preservation and restoration.
MAP THE GIANT FACTS
The largest known coral structure is Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, spanning over 2,300 km (1,400 miles). However, individual coral colonies like “Muga Dhambi” (discovered in 2021) stand over 10 meters (32 feet) tall and have been growing for centuries.
Large corals provide habitat for thousands of marine species, supporting biodiversity and acting as nurseries for fish, including commercially important species. Without these corals, we would have a vastly different ocean to dive in.
GET INVOLVED !
Challenges include ensuring data accuracy, maintaining engagement, and preventing human impact on reefs.
To address this, the initiative provides training and guidelines for responsible participation. By combining community action with technology, it empowers individuals to contribute to ocean conservation and protect coral giants for the future.
Sign up for a Marine Conservation Internship to get involved with this and many other projects!
GET MORE INFO !
If you have questions, about any of our projects, citizen science, research, volunteering, internships or training.
Please get in touch with us!