Dive with a Learning-Goal in Mind
​Get to Know your Reef!

This course was originally designed as a suppliment to the Divemaster training course and it is now open to the diving public as well. It's recommended for anyone who wants to know more about the reef they dive on and it's amazing diversity.
The general theme that runs through the course is how dependent each part of the reef is upon the others, and how a healthy reef is made up of many different parts.
The course is taught by Mickey Charteris, Roatan photographer and author of the popular reference book "Caribbean Reef Life".
Each topic starts with a presentation and discussion, followed by a dive with specific goals, where we look for examples of what we have learned, choosing dive sites that will help bring the themes of the Reef Naturalist Course to life.
Picture
Caribbean Reef Life by Mickey Charteris

Course Topics can Include:

Nudibranchs and SeaSlugs:

These are a favorite with underwater photographers, but are often very difficulat to find. Learn where and how to hunt for these elusive critters and how best to shoot them. It can take some patience, but with a bit of know-how they make for some great shots!

Camouflaged species:

Some of the most interesting subjects are hiding in plain sight! Learn how to recognize these hidden animals and how best to capture them. They can be found on corals, under sponges or right out in the open on the sandy patches. Each one needs a unique way to shoot.

Reef Commensals:

Many of the most interesting animals on a coral reef can only be found living on certain hosts. Learn more about these symbiotic relationships to increase your chances of finding them. the reef is alive with these creatures, know the host and you will get the shot!

Reef Fish Behavior:

From the smallest blennies to the largest groupers, learn where and how each family of reef fish lives. We'll look into their homes, how they feed and reproduce. It's not all about competition for resources, you'll be suprised at how much co-operation we find among the different fish species.

The Reef at Night (Optional Extra Dive):

A whole new cast of characters comes into play on the reef after the sun goes down, from the reef cleaners to the larger nocturnal predators to the bizzare species that make their way up from the depths every night. The corals become more active, many fish hide while many others come out of hiding to begin their time on the reef. A night shore-dive is the perfect way to experience this dark world.
“There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer."  "A good photograph is knowing where to stand.”: Ansel Adams