Our editorial team has already been invited to countless islands in the Maldives. The topic of environmental protection and sustainability is also a big issue here. Whenever we learn about projects that deal with this environment, we want to find out more, so we conducted an interview with Ambra Federica Dugaria, Dive Base Leader, Dive Instructor and Marine Biologist (Italian).
Exclusive Interview with Ambra Federica Dugaria, Dive Base Leader and Marine Biologist of Baros Maldives
Andreas Conrad: Can you provide us with an overview of your coral colonisation project and how it positively contributes to the preservation of the Maldives?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: At Baros Maldives, our coral rehabilitation project is at the heart of our commitment to marine conservation. To date, we’ve facilitated the creation of 476 coral frames, all sponsored by guests. We maintain three types of coral nurseries, continuously monitoring and experimenting with new coral transplantation techniques. Our efforts help protect and regenerate coral reefs, contributing to the resilience of the Maldives‘ marine ecosystems. Studies suggest that such initiatives may play a crucial role in outpacing sea level rise for coral atoll islands, making projects like ours even more important for the future.
Andreas Conrad: When was your project launched, and what progress has been made so far within the project?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: Our coral regeneration project began in 2006, and since then, we’ve placed 476 coral frames into the waters around Baros. In 2016, we moved over 210 frames to deeper parts of our house reef to protect them from rising temperatures. Today, these frames are thriving, with the corals fully integrated into the natural reef, a testament to the success of our efforts.
Andreas Conrad: How are corals selected and bred for the project?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: Initially, we focused on collecting broken coral fragments from our reef, caused either by natural events such as by triggerfishes and turtles while feeding, or accidental damage by snorkellers. Now, we use our coral nurseries as donor sites, growing healthy corals that are then replanted onto the reef. We select coral species from our house reef to ensure ecological harmony and prevent the spread of diseases. We primarily use corals from the Poritidae, Pocilloporidae, and Acroporidae families.
Andreas Conrad: What challenges have you encountered in coral colonisation in the Maldives so far, and how were they overcome?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: The main challenges we face stem from climate change, especially coral bleaching. Human activities like land reclamation also pose threats. However, Maldives‘ natural conditions, such as strong currents and its unique geography, have facilitated faster recovery after bleaching events. We work with national protocols and environmental impact assessments to mitigate these challenges, and we’ve seen encouraging signs of coral resilience and recovery.
Andreas Conrad: What role do local communities and government authorities play in implementing coral colonisation projects?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: The Maldives Marine Research Institute and the Environmental Protection Agency are involved in monitoring and guiding coral reef preservation across the country. For Baros, we’ve been working on coral restoration for many years, constantly refining our techniques to protect our house reef and marine life.
Andreas Conrad: How are tourists in the Maldives made aware of your project and coral colonisation efforts?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: With increasing need for environmental awareness, most resorts in the Maldives have an inhouse marine biologist or a dive team member who focuses on engaging talks with guests on marine conservation. At Baros, we have three resident marine biologists in addition to the dive team who educate guests on coral reefs and marine conservation. We offer snorkelling briefings and guided tours on our house reef and areas where our coral frames are placed, giving guests the opportunity to sponsor their own coral frame. This personal connection and immersive experiences are key to raising awareness and ensuring guests feel involved in the long-term health of the reef and our efforts and marine conservation.
Andreas Conrad: What educational and awareness-raising measures are being taken to inform tourists about the importance of coral reefs and the project?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: We host twice-weekly educational marine talks, led by our marine biologists, to help guests understand the significance of coral reefs and how they can contribute to conservation. Guests are encouraged to participate in hands-on experiences like our „Eco Explorer“ programme, which offers a fun and educational journey into coral rehabilitation and marine life identification.
Andreas Conrad: Can you provide us with insights into the long-term goals of the project and coral colonisation in the Maldives?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: Our long-term goal is to engage as many guests as possible in coral reef conservation while continuously rehabilitating damaged areas of our house reef. We aim to maintain a healthy and thriving reef, ensuring future generations can experience the vibrant marine life of Baros.
Andreas Conrad: What innovative technologies or approaches are being used in the project to promote and monitor coral colonisation?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: At Baros, we’ve introduced innovative methods such as line nurseries, which improve coral survival rates, and coral cubes which allow us to plant corals in smaller, vulnerable areas of the reef. We also use spider coral frames to encourage healthy coral growth and restore reef ecosystems.
Andreas Conrad: How can tourists actively participate in the protection and conservation of coral reefs in the Maldives and support the project?
Ambra Federica Dugaria: Guests can support coral conservation by choosing environmentally friendly sunscreen, being mindful of marine life while snorkelling, and participating in eco-tourism activities like coral restoration. At Baros, our “Eco Explorer” programme is a fantastic way for guests to learn more about the fascinating marine world and actively engage in coral rehabilitation and ocean conservation.
