Issue 102 - November 2023

Exploring Marine Biodiversity: UC Davis Undergraduates Unveil the Mysteries of Coastal Systems

By José Vadi

Undergraduate Research Helps Shape Our Understanding of the Ocean’s Coast and Climate at Bodega Marine Laboratory

A view of Tomales Bay from Williams, California. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

UC Davis junior Caroline Donohew watched the everyday power of biology in just five minutes during her summer session class at UC Davis’ Bodega Marine Laboratory, or BML, a coastal research and education facility about 100 miles west of campus.

While observing a mussel’s muscle through a microscope, “I saw it create a byssal thread in real time,” said Donohew, who is from San Anselmo. “And it was just so cool.”

Mussels have an actual muscle called a foot that secretes a “liquid that hardens when it comes into contact with seawater,” Donohew explained. “They stick their little foot down on the rock, pull it back and there’s a thread.”

Experiences like this are available to UC Davis students across all fields. As an R1 university, UC Davis is part of a prestigious group of universities that is conducting research at the highest level. Fewer than 200 institutions in the U.S. have this classification. Over 50% of UC Davis undergraduate students conduct research and creative projects beyond the classroom, and a major new career initiative aims to have 100% participate in experiential learning, including research before they graduate.

At BML, the “Coastal Marine Research” (BIS 124) class trains undergraduates in all aspects of the research process through seminars before students conduct their own independent research projects in teams of two. For her part, Donohew wanted to know what environmental factors determine the number of threads mussels produce.

Undergraduates have unique research opportunities in marine research

With participants living at BML, sharing meals together, frequently discussing each other’s work and projects, the community reflects the larger goals of UC Davis of having talented students collaborate, rather than compete.

Donohew and her partner designed an experiment to study if mussels would produce more byssal threads when in the presence of waterborne chemical cues from sea stars and rock crabs, both of which are predators of mussels.

“We found that mussels in the presence of sea star cues produce significantly more byssal threads than in the presence of no chemical cues from any predators,” Donohew said, describing the experiment’s results as “statistically significant.”

Summer sessions offer hands-on research experiences

Donohew’s class was part of the first of two summer sessions offered at the lab each summer. The integrated program offers students of any major a multidisciplinary understanding of coastal systems through hands-on, research and field-based courses taught at BML. Students can sign up for up to 10 units each session with most students living on-site throughout their session. All courses require the consent of the instructors via an application process.

Professor Eric Sanford teaches “Coastal Marine Research” in the field during summer session. (Courtesy of Caroline Donohew)

The courses offer field trips and hands-on labs with an emphasis on testing hypotheses through class experiments and independent research projects, giving students training and experience making observations, generating hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data.

The summer sessions also train students to communicate their research effectively to other scientists and the general public by producing scientific outreach videos. These three-minute films summarize their research projects and premiered at a film festival at BML in August. Check out Donohew’s video.

EVE scholars program provides a student research pathway

While these summer session classes introduce students like Donohew to research, additional opportunities give students more intensive pathways to develop their research abilities. Professor Jay Stachowicz, a faculty member who works both at the marine lab and on the Davis campus noted that it is important to give students “a way to get involved in a more systematic way in independent research,” he said.

What Stachowicz and others started as a handful of individual scholarships became a full-fledged scholarship program this year with the introduction of the Evolution and Ecology, or EVE, scholars program.

“Students spend an entire summer devoting their full time to a research project that they design with their faculty mentor,” Stachowicz explained. “And then we work with them to help analyze their data, evaluate hypotheses and communicate the story their findings tell to a broader audience.”

Zoe Brumbaugh, left, and Malia Reiss conduct their own research in Tomales Bay during summer session at the Bodega Marine Laboratory. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

Hosted by UC Davis Department of Evolution and Ecology, the program is supported by the Kendra M. Chan fellowship, the Nieland Family Fund, The Osborne Chair fund, the Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute and other donors. EVE scholars are awarded a stipend for a 10-week internship to allow undergraduate students to conduct full-time independent research under the direction of a faculty member either on the Davis campus or at the marine lab in any area of ecology or evolution.

The program also includes a one- to two-unit course offered in fall quarter for fellows to develop data analysis and presentation skills, culminating in the production of a poster presentation of the research results to the EVE community.

“Our focus is really on giving the students an immersive summer research experience, where we pay them,” Stachowicz said, “because that allows them to devote full-time” to the program.

An undergraduate’s introduction to marine science

EVE scholar Malia Reiss is an incoming fourth-year with an environmental science management major and minors in ecological restoration and writing. She was mentored by professors Stachowicz and Anya Brown.

“I always have wanted to do marine systems, but I’m not a marine major,” Reiss explained, noting her previous research analyzing terrestrial plants in high alpine and grassland ecosystems, but nothing related to the ocean.

I’ve always had a really personal connection with the ocean. Growing up on the coast, that’s like my space,” said Reiss, who grew up in Venice, in Southern California. “When I saw the application, I was, like, ‘Sure!’”

Reiss’ research focuses on how seagrass wasting disease is impacting the local eelgrass population in Bodega Bay, which supports a diverse array of crabs, fishes and seabirds.

Challenges and triumphs of marine research

Reiss’ summer roommate, fellow EVE scholar Zoe Brumbaugh, from Santa Rosa, is researching a newly identified invasive anemone in Tomales Bay.

Undergraduate Malia Reiss examines eelgrass in Tomales Bay. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

Reiss described the anemone as like “UFOs — they look scary,” while Brumbaugh said they’re “slightly spiky and bluish, greenish tinged.” As she starts her fourth year pursuing a degree in marine and coastal science, Brumbaugh has been helping Professor Eric Sanford and grad student Keira Monuki map this new anemone’s invasion success and track its impact on native species.

“We’re trying to figure out if they are asexually reproducing. One individual could then produce hundreds of them, theoretically.”

Trial and error are critical to research. Recently, Reiss realized this hard reality when one of her experiments led to data that “was all over the place. It was so frustrating and overwhelming.”

She found solace in a familiar place.

“I just went to the beach, which is like 15 minutes away and just chilled out for like an hour and then went back to the lab,” she said. “That’s what’s cool and so nice about the length of the program — you get to keep asking questions and figure out new things.”

Undergraduate Malia Reiss uses a photosynthesis yield analyzer to test a piece of eelgrass. (Alysha Beck/UC Davis)

The students’ research is bound to the tides of the oceans. Low-tide weeks allow for onsite collection and observation, while high-tide weeks emphasize lab work, analysis and presentation of the data collected. Though a summer spent with new friends by the ocean sounds great, the work is demanding and a race against time.

I like to joke that my whole life is governed by the tides,” Brumbaugh explained.

“I knew tide cycles existed, but you’re really limited. Like you have a low-tide week and it’s super intense. You’re working 12-hour days,” Reiss said. “For my research, I’m walking on my knees for like an hour in the mudflats and then that next week, it’s super chill. I work in the tanks, and Zoe is staring at anemones in the lab for multiple hours at a time.”

Hope for future marine scientists despite climate change

Climate change “is affecting everyone’s research,” Brumbaugh explained, noting that the Tomales Bay, where her and Reiss’ research takes place, is a microcosm of larger warming patterns worldwide. “It’s an area that experiences a really strong thermal gradient. It’s a place where a lot of questions about ocean warming get raised because there are these organisms experiencing such a range of conditions.”

And the future of these summer opportunities at the lab starts with those who can inform a new generation.

“The groundswell of interest from faculty and students in this program is really encouraging,” Stachowicz said. “This isn’t a program that can work without the dedication of UCD faculty and hard work of our amazing undergraduates.” He said he hopes stories on the EVE Scholars “will help highlight other programs on campus with similar goals and inspire others to develop their own.”

Undergraduate Zoe Brumbaugh is researching a newly identified invasive anemone in Tomales Bay. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

A closeup of eelgrass taken from Tomales Bay. Lesions on the grass are a sign of seagrass wasting disease. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis — Undergraduate Zoe Brumbaugh is researching a newly identified invasive anemone in Tomales Bay. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

This article was originally published on the University of California webpage, HERE!

[xyz-ihs snippet=”Prepared-by-PK”]

Up Next

Palau National Marine Sanctuary Named a Blue Spark in Growing Network of Outstanding Marine Protected Areas

Don't Miss

Life Cycle Assessment Mastery: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Decision-Making

Issue 102 - November 2023

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – November 2023 – Issue 102

Feature Destination

Discovering the Delicate Balance of Palau’s Jellyfish Lake Ecosystem

This unique ecosystem is a testament to the marvels of evolution and ecological resilience, as it has become home to millions of jellyfish, which have adapted to their enclosed environment over the course of thousands of years. Read more…

Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas

Positioned within the Coral Triangle, renowned for its unparalleled coral diversity, Palau’s waters play host to a plethora of iconic species, including the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), the bumphead parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum), and an array of sharks and rays. Read more…

Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas

Picture this: over 500 islands, each telling a tale of nature’s splendour coexisting with mindful tourism. Let’s explore through the wonders of Palau, figuring out the journey, unravelling its delights, and ensuring our visit leaves a legacy of preservation and respect. Read more…

Palau National Marine Sanctuary Named a Blue Spark in Growing Network of Outstanding MPA

Palau School of Travelly © The Ocean Agency

Marine Conservation Institute and the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) announced that the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) is a Blue Spark marine protected area collaboration. Read more…

Dive into Palau’s Underwater Paradise: A Snorkeler’s Dream Journey

Discover an underwater world where vivid coral gardens and rainbow-colored fish await in Palau, a hidden gem where each snorkel dive is a plunge into a vibrant, living masterpiece. Experience the extraordinary blend of natural beauty and marine conservation. See more…

NEWSROOM

Scientists Discover Healthy Deep-Sea Coral Reefs & New Seamounts in the Galapagos

Scientists examining underwater cliff ecosystems onboard the research vessel Falkor (too) using the 4,500-meter robot, ROV SuBastian, have discovered two pristine coral reefs in the waters surrounding the Galápagos Islands. Read more…

Hurricane Effects on Coral Reefs: Active Hurricane Season Could Devastate Coral Reefs

a scuba diver is checking up on one of the coral nurseries in The Bahamas

Coastal coral reefs are essential to the survival of marine life, playing a crucial role in protecting our shorelines and providing important recreational resources for diving and fishing, making their health and conservation even more crucial. Read more…

Rewilding Scotland’s Seas: The Fight to Save Shallow Marine Habitats

The coastline of Scotland is known for its raw and rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs and merciless waves. But hidden beneath the waves is a whole other world, unknown to most of us. Read more…

Exploring Marine Biodiversity: UC Davis Undergraduates Unveil the Mysteries of Coastal Systems

Undergraduate Malia Reiss examines eelgrass in Tomales Bay. Photo Banner

New England Aquarium Joins Global Mission to Save African Penguins from Extinction

The picturesque march of the African penguin is more than just a delightful spectacle. It’s a glimpse into the story of a species on the brink of extinction. This year, the New England Aquarium has deepened its commitment to this story. Read more…

North Atlantic Right Whale Population Stabilizes, But Human-Induced Threats Remain Critical, Scientists Warn

After years of continued decline, the North Atlantic right whale population may be beginning to level off, though scientists emphasize that the critically endangered species still faces significant ongoing threats from human activities. Read more…

Sustainable Tourism on the Rise: Helsinki Makes Major Strides in Global Rankings

The results of the latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index, which ranks the sustainability of tourist destinations, were published on 4 October 2023. In the latest index, Helsinki has climbed eight places and is now ranked the fourth most sustainable tourist destination in the world. Read more…

Life Cycle Assessment Mastery: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Decision-Making

Monthly Book Suggestion Banner for Nov 2023 Issue

LCA is a powerful tool that can be used to make more sustainable decisions. It analyzes the environmental impacts of a product, service, or technology throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. Read more…

Diving Sector Could Hold The Key to Advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals

Led by researchers in the Aburto Lab at Scripps Oceanography, the review emphasizes that the diving sector — which includes tourism, scientific research, and instruction — is uniquely poised to promote a sustainable and equitable ocean economy, also known as the “blue economy.” Read more…

Reef-World’s 2023 Impact Report: Driving Sustainable Marine Tourism Amidst Global Challenges

Photo banner for Reef-World's 2023 Impact Report

The Reef-World Foundation — the leading voice in sustainable marine tourism and the international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative —released its Impact Report for 2022 – 2023, outlining a year of significant achievements, innovative initiatives and groundbreaking collaboration. Read more…

Greenpeace USA Confronts Deep Sea Mining Company at Investor Conference

Greenpeace confronts deep sea mining vessel to highlight threat to ocean

An activist from Greenpeace USA held up a banner that read “Stop Deep Sea Mining” during a presentation by Craig Shesky, Chief Financial Officer of The Metals Company (TMC), at the 121 Mining Investment conference in New York today. Read more…

Jean-Michel Cousteau To Receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for Contributions to Ocean Conservation

Cousteau will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Ritz-Carlton, Bacara on November 11 for 7-plus decades of contributions to the conservation and education of the oceans and marine life. Read more…

Digital 3D Model of WA Shipwreck Shared to Mark Anniversary of Its Loss

The underwater remains of a ship built in Fremantle in 1876 and which sunk off the coast several years later can now be explored with ease thanks to a digital 3D model unveiled by Curtin University and the Western Australian Museum following the recent 143rd anniversary of its loss. Read more…

SEVENSEAS Beach Cleanup & Coral Restoration Events in Marine Protected Areas

Monthly Beach Cleanup Event from July 28, 2023

Coral Nursery & Restoration Activity Update: July 2023

In July 2023, SEVENSEAS Media conducted two impactful events in Krabi, Thailand. The Monthly Beach Cleanup Event at Ao Sew Beach saw enthusiastic volunteers remove a staggering 150.6 kilograms of trash, underscoring the pressing issue of marine pollution and the significance of sustainable practices like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The organization stressed the importance of proper waste management to protect coastal ecosystems.

Meanwhile, in the face of an unexpected storm, SEVENSEAS Media’s Coral Nursery & Restoration team demonstrated unwavering dedication, rescuing and relocating 75 corals to safer locations, bolstering their chances of survival and growth. The team outlined a comprehensive plan for continued coral recovery missions and data collection efforts throughout the year. The recent storm served as a stark reminder of the urgency to safeguard coral reefs from climate change impacts. We would like to express our gratitude for the support received from individuals and communities in this conservation community. We would not be able to do it without your support. You can make a tax-deductible donation here to keep our publications and Thailand Cleanup Project afloat.

You can either make a direct financial contribution to SEVENSEAS Media through The Ocean Foundation website or connect us with potential donors by sending an email to Giacomo Abrusci, our Editor-in-Chief.

The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.

[xyz-ihs snippet=”Prepared-by-PK”]

Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Discovering Palau, A Sustainable Paradise in the Pacific

Tucked away in the heart of the Pacific, Palau is like a secret treasure for explorers craving untouched beauty with a dash of sustainability. Picture this: over 500 islands, each telling a tale of nature’s splendour coexisting with mindful tourism. Let’s explore through the wonders of Palau, figuring out the journey, unravelling its delights, and ensuring our visit leaves a legacy of preservation and respect.

Getting There: Reaching Palau requires a bit of planning, as it is located in a remote part of the Pacific. The Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, situated in Airai on Babeldaob Island, serves as the main gateway to Palau. Major airlines such as United Airlines, Asiana Airlines, and China Airlines offer flights to Palau, with connections to Guam, Seoul, or Taipei. Once you arrive in Palau, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, or organized tours to help you navigate the islands.

Accommodation: Palau offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. From eco-lodges and boutique resorts to liveaboard diving boats, visitors can choose a setting that aligns with their values and interests. Many establishments are actively involved in conservation efforts, ensuring that your stay contributes to the local economy and environmental protection.

Diving and Marine Exploration: Diving is undoubtedly one of Palau’s main attractions, drawing subaquatic junkies from around the globe to experience its underwater wonders. The country has designated 80% of its maritime territory as a protected sanctuary, showcasing its commitment to marine conservation.

Blue Corner: This world-renowned dive site is celebrated for its strong currents, bringing in pelagic species such as grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), barracudas, and eagle rays. Divers can hook onto the reef, witnessing a spectacular show as schools of fish swirl around, creating a mesmerizing underwater ballet.
German Channel: Famous for its cleaning stations, where manta rays (Manta alfredi) come to get groomed by cleaner wrasses, this site offers an intimate encounter with these gentle giants. The clear waters and rich biodiversity make it a favorite among photographers and marine biologists alike.
Jellyfish Lake: Though not a dive site, this marine lake is a must-visit for snorkelers. Home to millions of stingless jellyfish, visitors can swim alongside these ethereal creatures, experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime interaction.

Outdoor Activities: Palau’s lush landscapes and pristine waters provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Kayaking: Explore the Rock Islands by kayak, navigating through hidden lagoons and mangrove channels. This low-impact activity allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Palau, spotting wildlife such as the Palau fruit bat (Pteropus pelewensis) and various bird species.
Bird Watching: Palau is home to several endemic bird species, including the Palau Owl (Pyrroglaux podargina) and the Palau Fantail (Rhipidura lepida). Join a guided bird-watching tour to learn about these unique species and contribute to conservation efforts.
Hiking: Discover Palau’s terrestrial biodiversity by trekking through its lush forests. The Ngardmau Waterfall trail offers a scenic hike, culminating in a refreshing swim at the base of Palau’s tallest waterfall.

Sustainable Practices: Palau has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, implementing practices and policies that prioritize environmental protection.

The Palau Pledge: Visitors are required to sign the Palau Pledge upon arrival, committing to act responsibly and respect the environment during their stay. This groundbreaking initiative reflects Palau’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage for future generations.
Supporting Local Communities: Engage with Palau’s vibrant culture by participating in community-based tourism initiatives. Attend a traditional dance performance, visit a local farm, or learn about traditional navigation techniques, ensuring that your visit has a positive impact on the local population.
Plastic-Free Palau: The country has taken significant strides in reducing plastic waste, banning single-use plastics and promoting reusable alternatives. Support these efforts by bringing a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and other sustainable essentials.

Conservation Efforts: Palau’s conservation initiatives extend beyond its marine environments, encompassing terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife protection.

Protected Areas Network (PAN): The PAN is a network of marine and terrestrial protected areas, ensuring the conservation of Palau’s unique biodiversity. Visitors can contribute to these efforts by paying entry fees and adhering to guidelines that safeguard these fragile ecosystems.
Endangered Species Protection: Palau is home to several endangered species, including the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Dugong (Dugong dugon). Support conservation initiatives by respecting wildlife, maintaining a safe distance, and reporting any illegal activities.

Palau’s commitment to sustainability and conservation sets it apart as a travel destination, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore an unspoiled paradise while contributing to the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. By embracing responsible tourism practices, engaging with local communities, and supporting conservation initiatives, travellers can play a vital role in ensuring that Palau remains a spotless paradise. Experience the unparalleled beauty of Palau, while ensuring that your journey leaves a positive imprint on this idyllic archipelago. From its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to its lush terrestrial landscapes, Palau invites you to explore, learn, and contribute to a legacy of preservation and sustainable tourism. Whether you’re diving in the azure depths, kayaking through serene lagoons, or learning about the rich cultural traditions of the Palauan people, your experiences will be enriched by the knowledge that you are part of a global community working to protect this incredible destination.

As you explore the azure waters, walk the untouched forest trails, or engage with the age-old traditions of the Palauan people, remember that you are part of a global community that values sustainability, respect, and shared responsibility. Your journey in Palau is not just about discovering a new destination but about becoming an ambassador for a sustainable future.

[xyz-ihs snippet=”Prepared-by-PK”]

Issue 102 - November 2023

Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas

In the heart of the Western Pacific, the archipelago of Palau stands as a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of marine life, housing over 500 islands, more than 1,300 species of fish, and 700 species of coral. Positioned within the Coral Triangle, renowned for its unparalleled coral diversity, Palau’s waters play host to a plethora of iconic species, including the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), the bumphead parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum), and an array of sharks and rays. The country’s pioneering efforts in marine conservation have positioned it at the forefront of global marine protected areas (MPAs) initiatives, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to preserving its aquatic ecosystems.

Palau’s journey toward marine conservation has been characterized by a proactivity that saw the establishment of its first no-take zone in the Ngardok Nature Reserve in the 1990s. This marked the beginning of a widespread movement to expand the network of MPAs across the nation, culminating in the designation of approximately 80% of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as a marine sanctuary by 2023, a significant portion of which is fully protected no-take zones. These conservation efforts are underscored by a commitment to scientific research, with the design and management of Palau’s MPAs being meticulously guided by ecological principles.

The scientific foundation of Palau’s MPAs is robust, ensuring that they fulfill their intended purposes of preserving biodiversity, restoring fish stocks, and bolstering the resilience of marine ecosystems. The country has engaged in collaborations with a range of international and local scientific institutions, undertaking extensive marine biological surveys, habitat mapping, and monitoring programs. This scientific rigor is imperative, as Palau’s marine ecosystems are confronted with a barrage of threats, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate change, and land-based pollution.

Climate change, in particular, presents a formidable challenge, manifesting in coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and rising sea levels, all of which threaten the delicate balance of marine life. Despite these challenges, Palau’s unwavering commitment to marine conservation has borne fruit, with the establishment of no-take zones leading to a remarkable resurgence of fish populations. Studies indicate a substantial increase in biomass and abundance of key species within protected areas, corroborating the efficacy of Palau’s conservation strategies.

The spillover effect, wherein fish from protected areas migrate to adjacent fishing grounds, has augmented local fisheries, delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities. This success is intertwined with Palau’s rich tradition of conservation, with the country’s efforts being significantly influenced by traditional knowledge and practices. The “bul,” a customary Palauan practice of instituting temporary fishing bans to replenish marine life, has been seamlessly integrated into contemporary conservation strategies, fostering a unique conservation ethos.

As Palau sets its sights on the future, it remains steadfast in its dedication to marine conservation, exploring innovative strategies and fortifying the enforcement of MPA regulations. The country is equally committed to enhancing the resilience of its marine ecosystems to climate change, acknowledging the indispensable role of healthy marine environments in mitigating the impacts of global warming. Through an unwavering commitment, rigorous scientific research, and adaptive management, Palau’s MPAs are poised to continue their trajectory of success, preserving the archipelago’s marine wonders for future generations and serving as an exemplary model for global marine conservation efforts.