Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Panama's Pacific coast, is one of the most biodiverse marine reserves in the Eastern Tropical Pacific -home to hundreds of fish species, dozens of shark species, rays, sea turtles, and the large pelagics that pass through this stretch of the migratory corridor shared with the Galápagos. Decades of protection and low human disturbance have left its reefs and channels remarkably intact.

On this expedition, you'll join Dr. Rachel Graham and her team on guided dives and in-water surveys to document this natural wonder firsthand - contributing to photo identification, camera trapping, megafauna tagging, and eDNA sampling that expand our understanding of the species using this critical, still-understudied corridor. Your work will help build the baseline data needed to guide long-term protection of one of the Pacific's last great marine wildernesses

Volunteer with Purpose

Immerse yourself in marine science and learn the following megafauna monitoring techniques:

• Species ID: Identifying marine megafauna, such as sharks, rays, turtles, and piscivorous fishes, is a crucial aspect of assessing the biodiversity of marine ecosystems. This involves recognizing various species through specific physical characteristics and behaviors, and provides vital data for conservation efforts. Accurate species identification helps scientists monitor population trends, understand ecological roles, and evaluate the health of marine habitats.

• Underwater Visual Surveys (UVCs): During our dives, we will use photo and video to help identify species and individual white tip sharks. We will also be involved in the collection and analysis of samples of Environmental DNA (eDNA). This data allows us to record different species in the habitat, which slough skin and mucus unseen through general observation.

• Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUVs): These ingenious underwater camera traps offer a glimpse into the world hidden beneath the waves. They are a crucial element in the assessment of shark abundance, diversity, and distribution, alongside other mesmerizing marine species attracted to the bait. You will have the opportunity to set up and retrieve the cameras for data review.

• Longline Capture and Tagging of Sharks and Rays: Scientific longlining is another method to assess shark and ray diversity and abundance, especially over long periods of time. This technique involves setting a line of 50 baited hooks in order to capture individuals and collect more specific measurements, tag the animal with a marker that will identify them in future captures or sightings, and collect a tissue sample for DNA and contaminant analysis. You will assist with baiting and setting the longline, collecting environmental data, and learning proper handling techniques for safely tagging and releasing sharks and rays.