The Living Oceans Foundation Global Reef Expedition kicks off 2015 in Palau, visiting many of the country’s reefs including the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The purpose of the research here is to obtain detailed information about the health and state of the reefs through various survey and data collection methods. The science team will also compare marine protected areas with non-protected areas to evaluate marine management strategies. The result will be a detailed scientific report for local communities, agencies, and relevant stakeholders in the region to help with ongoing management and conservation of Palau’s coral reefs.

Friend or Foe? Part 1: Meet the Underwater Meadows
You’re swimming in the glistening, turquoise ocean, feeling totally at peace as the water cools you under the beaming sun. Hang on—what’s that? A slippery, slimy, twisty thing brushing your foot? Ew! Argh.
That’s seagrass! And believe it or not, we love it. You don’t need to be afraid. It’s actually one of the most important ecosystems in the ocean, and it definitely won’t hurt you. Let me tell you more…
