Reef Monitoring Bird's Head Seascape
Photo caption Conserving the Bird's Head Seascape through coral reef monitoring. © Awaludinnoer/YKAN

Perspectives

Conserving the Bird's Head Seascape through Coral Reef Monitoring

The Bird's Head Seascape (BHS) in Southwest Papua is an incredible biodiversity haven at the heart of the world's coral triangle. With more than 1,700 species of fish and 75% of the world's soft and hard corals, this area is not only the pride of Indonesia but also a global concern. However, this beauty requires sustainable management and protection.

Since 2009, coral reef health monitoring activities have been an important part of conservation efforts in the region. From September 28 to November 11, 2024, joint monitoring was again conducted by the Southwest Papua Agriculture, Food, Marine and Fisheries Office (P2KP), the University of Papua (UNIPA), and YKAN, with support from the Blue Action Fund (BAF). 

Photo Caption Reef Health Monitoring, Bird's Head Seascape. © Awaludinnoer/YKAN

The joint team dived and documented the condition of the underwater ecosystem in several locations, namely the North Misool conservation area at 28 points, the prospective Maksegara conservation area at 9 points, and the waters of Werur at 7 points. 

Read: Synergy in Preserving the Biodiversity of Wehea-Kelay

Using the Underwater Photo Transect (UPT) method, the researchers collected visual and quantitative data to analyze coral reef conditions. Underwater photographs are essential for measuring coral cover and fish biomass, key indicators of marine ecosystem health.

Findings from this monitoring are expected to accelerate the designation of new conservation areas and support better management adaptation strategies. With strong dedication from many parties, the Bird's Head Seascape will remain a symbol of hope that harmony between humans and nature is inevitable. A sustainable future is forged in the depths of waters rich with life.