Quick viewing(Text Mode)

Download X-Ray Magazine (Pdf)

Download X-Ray Magazine (Pdf)

Sun Protection & Skin Care for Divers Adventure Saudi Arabia Profile

GLOBAL EDITION Bob Evans June :: July 2007 Number 17 Equipment Fins Science Salinity Photography Mastering Macro Tech Talk EGYPT

COVER PHOTO BY WOLFGANG LEANDER COVER PHOTO BY MAGNUS LUNDGREN Red1 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 Sea silver

cinema of dreams

www.seacam.com

2 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 DIRECTORY X-RAY MAG is published by AquaScope Your Skin is an Organ: Protect It Copenhagen, - www.aquascope.biz www.xray-mag.com Sun Protection & Skin Care For Divers... page 76 SERIOUS SUNSCREEN ON A AVAILABLE IN SPF 15 & SPF 30 FROM ALOE UP AT WWW.ALOEUP.COM PUBLISHER CO- EDITORS & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Arnold Weisz - News, Features Peter Symes Willy Volk - News, Interviews Red Sea Reefshark. Photo by Magnus Lundgren [email protected] Millis Keegan - Opinions, MANAGING EDITOR Brian Keegan - Equipment contents & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michael Arvedlund - Ecology Gunild Pak Symes Tony White - Photography [email protected] Michel Tagliati - Medicine ASSOCIATE EDITORS Leigh Cunningham - Tech & REPRESENTATIVES: Edwin Marcow -

USA: CORRESPONDENTS Millis Keegan John Collins - Ireland [email protected] Jordi Chias - Enrico Cappeletti - : Tomas Knutsson - Iceland Andrey Bizyukin Gary Myors - [email protected] Marcelo Mammana - Argentina Svetlana Murashkina - Russia South East Asia: Amos Nachoum - USA Catherine GS Lim, Barb Roy - , USA [email protected] Michael Portelly, UK Robert Aston - CA, USA ADVERTISING Nonoy Tan - The International sales manager Harvey Page CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE [email protected] Kurt Amsler Dan Beecham International sales rep: Geoff Mellard (Europe) Liduine Bekman [email protected] Scott Bennett Andrey Bizyukin, PhD International sales rep: David F Colvard, MD Arnold Weisz (Business Directory) Harvey Page [email protected] Jason Heller Millis Keegan SENIOR EDITOR Wolfgang Leander Michael Symes Magnus Lundgren 24 32 34 42 57 plus... [email protected] Catherine GS Lim Edwin Marcow THE RED SEA THE RED SEA THE RED SEA THE RED SEA FINS EDITORIAL 3 ARTED BY OSES ONLINE EDITOR Francesco Ricciardi EGYPT P M MYSTERIES OF EGYPT SAUDI ARABIA & FIN CARE NEWS 6 Willy Volk Cindy Ross BY PETER SYMES BY ARNOLD WEISZ BY BARB ROY BY DAN BEECHAM BY MILLIS KEEGAN DIVE GURUS 4 9 [email protected] Barb Roy Yann Saint-Yves NEW EQUIPMENT 50 TECHNICAL MANAGER Gunild Symes WHALES&DOLPHINS 54 Søren Reinke Michael Symes 62 66 71 76 94 BUSINESS DIRECTORY 92 [email protected] Peter Symes PROFILE: SCIENCE: ECOLOGY SUN PROTECTION PORTFOLIO: Cedric Verdier BOB EVANS SALINITY WHY & HOW & SKIN CARE FOR DIVERS LIDUINE BEKMAN MARKETING MANAGER: Willy Volk BY PETER SYMES BY MICHAEL SYMES BY PETER SYMES & BY GUNILD SYMES EDITTED BY GUNILD SYMES Yann Saint-Yves Further info see contacts page: MICHAEL ARVEDLUND [email protected] www.xray-mag.com Not yet subscribed to SUBSCRIPTION columns... X-RAY MAG? Sign up now! X-RAY MAG International Edition in English is FREE It’s FREE! QUICK! EASY! To subscribe, go to: www.xray-mag.com 79 70 81 83 88 MERMAID MATTERS: MEDICAL TALES: UW PHOTO: TECH TALK: click here... COVER PHOTO Red Coral, Red Sea, by Magnus Lundgren MASCARA ADVISORY NASAL IRRIGATION BITS & BITES MACRO ADVENTURE (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) BY CINDY ROSS BY DAVID F COLVARD MD EDITTED BY EDWIN MARCOW BY KURT AMSLER BY CEDRIC VERDIER

3 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 Amsterdam Barcelona Cape Town Chicago Copenhagen London Moscow Okinawa Oslo Ravenna Reykjavik San Francisco Sharm El Shiekh Warsaw Editorial Fighting for what we love There is light at the end of the tunnel...

Earlier this month, UN delegates reached a The closing deal on combating global warming. Indone- document sian governors have agreed to curb logging to made it reduce climate change. Restaurants in clear that are taking bottom fish off their menus. No-take it is still zones show how fish stocks can be protected. within Pacific Nations are banning bottom trawling. our These are just some of the latest headlines I financial have been picking out of the stack and technologi- lately. I guess I have felt starved cal means to avoid ”It is for a positive outlook, and all the disastrous spike in the doom and gloom was that could possible to starting to get to me as well. wreak economic and eco- I haven’t been feeling good logical havoc on the planet. The stop climate about the way we have been delegates also approved the first managing the planet and road map to curtailing the rise in greenhouse change” worried about whether we gas emissions. could come to our senses in According to AP and CCN, delegates time to steer clear of the impend- hailed the policy statement as a key advance ing apocalypse—a sentiment I think many of toward battling global warming and setting our fellow human beings share. the stage for an even stronger international agreement to replace the 1997 Kyoto Proto- But lately, I have started to feel better about it col on greenhouse emissions when it expires in all. 2012.

The delegates at the UN’s climate conference Sounds good to me. Now, we just have to in Bangkok not only managed to reach a stick to the plan and keep our elected politi- deal that pretty much cut through most of the cians accountable. usual political crap that so often sabotages or Growing up, I remember listening to what waters down the experts’ clear recommenda- my grandparents told me about enduring the tions—those days are finally over—as the grav- horrible years of the World War. How the whole ity of the message seems to have finally sunk in sentiment in society changed. Everyone stood across the board. In addition, their conclusion much closer together in the face of hardship was: during those horrible years. Sacrifices were made by individuals, families and society as a ”It is possible to stop climate change.” whole. Priorities were changed, and new in-

4 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Editorial ventions were sped up to face the we’ve got to start somewhere, there’s a lot of threat of an outside enemy. don’t we? At least, it is a start. other stuff that I This time, the enemy is not don’t need. We made of guns and tanks, but in Nostalgia have no car part, our own ignorance. I love the sea, and my love of it in the family, However, I sense that there is goes back a long way. Once in a no expensive a subtle yet undeniable change while, I visit the wonderful, pristine plasma TV’s, in sentiments of the kind that my where I spent so many no energy- grandparents talked about. The summers as a little kid with my gulping air- way of thinking is changing—at grandparents. conditioners last. Here, time seems to stand still. (opening the I read about private citizens The waves are still gently lapping windows and changing their entire households the beach, kids are still build- letting in the and the manner in which they ing sand castles with their green breeze works manage them to reduce their buckets and red shovels while just fine) and we’ve got carbon footprint. I hear how Gov- their older siblings try to catch a thermostat on the heater and ernor Arnold Schwarzenegger in small crabs and chase shrimps in warm water and so forth. It is not California pushes through tougher tidal pools. I used to wonder how such a sacrifice, as I never give it legislation on greenhouse emis- this timeless joy and curiosity with a thought. sions, and how Richard Branson of the sea seemed to go on and And that is the issue at hand Virgin Airways now wants to tow on without changing, generation here. It is, to a large extent, down his aircrafts to the runway to save after generation. I want it to con- to the shaping of daily habits to fuel. tinue. have a fairly low carbon footprint. And I have read about all the For me, the And should it come to mak- smaller things people have done, choices and ing a choice, I’d take the like the restaurant owners who priorities are dive gear and give away have taken bottom fish off their clear. I love the new TV any day. Man- menus. that beach tas, manatees and morays I have no idea how much and the are just so much better live, each of these measures actually clear water. in 3-D! counts, but they all add up. And I need it. But —Peter Symes Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

X-RAY MAG is distributed six times per Views and information expressed in year on the Internet. © 2004-2006 X- articles are those of the individual author Because you can’t stay underwater forever... RAY MAG. All rights reserved. and are not necessarily representative of Material in this publication may not views held by X-RAY MAG or its affiliates. be reproduced or transferred elec- Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and Join the World’s largest Online Diving Community tronically in any form without written illustrations should be emailed to: and you will never be without a buddy again. permission from the copyright owner. [email protected] Editorial statement regarding News from NAUI in X-RAY MAG: Imagine a resource that will answer almost many dive experts in the World’s largest Online X-RAY MAG accepts no responsibility for This issue of X-RAY MAG and oth- every question you ever had about diving: Scuba Community and find the answers you unsolicited materials sent to its office, nor is ers includes news and press photography, gear, physics, flora, fauna, des- are looking for. It’s free, it’s huge, it’s ultra it liable for loss or damage to such materi- releases from NAUI in sections tinations, wrecks, , and then friendly and we are waiting for you to show als. designated by the NAUI logo. imagine this resource is but a click away. up! ScubaBoard.com is the place to While the page design is done by What would you call it? Well, we call it begin your research and to find a host of dive X-RAY MAG as an integrated part of X-RAY MAG observes a strict privacy poli- www.ScubaBoard.com buddies all around the world with a common the magazine, these news stories are goal: to share our under water heaven in a cy. No personal or private information will brought to you by NAUI at NAUI’s X-Ray Magazine is a member of be shared with a third party without the discretion. Join over 75,000 users, including 1200 Scuba safe and friendly atmosphere! See you on the & Marketing written permission of the owner. Instructors, hundreds of manufacturers and so ‘Board tonight! Association: www.dema.org

5 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Cool rain provides relief for Barrier

Recent torrential rains and monsoons in northern Queensland have pro- vided some rare relief for the in . The poor conditions have significantly reduced ocean temperatures, making them the coolest for up to five years. It has been a blessing for the corals—usually in the summer, they are at risk of serious scorch- News edited ing and bleaching. The Great Barrier Reef, stretching over more than by Peter Symes 345,000 sq km is also under threat from a combination of global warm- NEWS ing, pollution and over-fishing. ■ Grey nurse shark Japanese Government to take habitat protected steps to protect coral reefs New NOAA Report Shows A critical habitat for the endangered The Environment Ministry will revise the US Marine Sanctuaries Made grey nurse shark off the mid-north coast range of nature preserves, such as nature of New South Wales has been been pro- conservation areas and natural parks, to tected by the federal government. protect coral reefs. Significant Gains in 2006 All forms of fishing will be banned from The ministry will design protective Leading the effort to establish the the popular cod grounds off Laurieton measures for coral reefs endangered world’s largest area of marine protection at the end of this month when the 300 by a flow of red soil into the ocean and in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, hectare area becomes an official marine other factors and also revise the increasing marine life in the Florida Keys reserve. management methods. National Marine Sanctuary, and moving The area was recognised as a key hab- Coral reefs cover about 96,000 hec- shipping lanes to help protect whales off itat for the grey nurse shark in 2002. tares in , mainly around Okinawa New , are some of the NOAA There are less than 500 of the sharks Prefecture. However, less than half of National Marine Sanctuary Program’s remaining off the east coast of Australia them are designated as nature pre- top accomplishments for 2006, accord- after the population was decimated in serves. ■ ing to a new NOAA report. The 2006 the 1960s by spearfishers, anglers and State of the Sanctuaries Report, which commercial fishing. ■ includes accomplishments and highlights from each sanctuary, is available online.

Antarctic Waters Continue A new to Produce New Discoveries species of Cteno- An extraordinarily diverse array of cidaris marine life has been discovered in the The deeper waters of the Scotia (urchin) deep, dark waters around Antarctica. and Weddell seas are some of Scientists have found more than 700 the least explored parts of the new species of marine creatures in seas world¹s oceans once thought too hostile to sustain such rich biodiversity. The Asellota (left) are Groups of carnivorous sponges, free- one of the most diverse worms, crustaceans and mol- groups of isopods, com- luscs were collected. prising about 25 percent The findings, published in the journal of all marine species. They Nature, could provide insights into the are most successful and evolution of ocean life in this area. ■ diverse in the deep sea Male SOURCES: BBC NEWS, BRITISH ANTARCTIC SURVEY Munna

BIOZENTRUM GRINDEL UND ZOOLOGISCHES MUSEUM crustacean 6 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Effects of Global Warming on Fish Europe Gets Tough on Vessels news Polluting Ocean Waters Surface Fish Growing Faster ... while Deep Sea Fish are Growing Slower Starting April 1st, the 27 member states of the European Union will display their Edited by Fish are fattening up faster near the In contrast to the shallow living cousins, be temporary. common determination to tackle unlaw- Peter Symes Pacific’s surface, which is warming, a deepwater fish are growing 20 to 30 per- “With increasing global warning, tem- ful discharges of polluting substances new study says. The shallow-living fish are cent slower than they were 50 years ago. peratures at intermediate depths are at sea as legislation adopted in 2005 is growing 20 to 30 percent faster today Changes in ocean have likely to rise near globally... suggesting implemented. Illicit discharges at sea are Threat to tropical than they were 50 years ago, accord- altered the growth rates of commercially that... the decrease in growth rates for still occurring, and preventing them is now ing to the researchers’ analysis of fish ear harvested fish over the past century, the deep-water species could slow and more than ever a priority for Europe, the reefs growing bones. The faster growth rates closely according to a new study published in even be reversed.” European Commission said. 55 per cent of the 49 island match a warming trend in the ocean’s this week’s early online edition of the Deepwater fish tend to be longer-lived “We must get tough on illegal discharg- nations who register their surface waters. Proceedings of the National Academy than shallow water dwellers—some spe- es and gross negligence must be fought fish catch are fishing unsus- “There’s no question that the shallow- of Sciences (PNAS). Their slowing growth cies, like the warty oreo (Allocyttus verru- at all cost: the threat of criminal penalties tainably by taking more water fish are tracking our local version rates correlate with a long-term cooling cosus) and orange roughy (Hoplostethus hanging over polluters’ heads will help to fish, molluscs and crusta- of global climate warming,” said Ronald of the deep waters. The cause of the atlanticus), may live to be more than protect our coasts. We cannot tolerate ceans than the reefs are Thresher, a fisheries biologist with the cooling trend is unclear, but analysis of 130 years old. Their slow reproductive deliberate pollution or gross negligence able to replace, accord- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial deep water corals suggests it has been rate means they are especially vulner- by a minority of operators who tarnish ing to a global survey of Research Organization in Tasmania, going on for centuries and may be inde- able to over-exploitation and conserva- the image of the shipping industry,” said reef fisheries, published in Australia. The faster growth, he added, pendent of global warming, tion groups have recently warned that a Jacques Barrot, the commission’s vice the online journal Current could make the near-surface fish more While the results have potential impli- number of deep water fish stocks are at president in charge of transport. ■ Biology. resilient to overfishing. ■ cations for commercial ocean fisheries, the point of collapse. ■ The scientists estimated the researchers say the trend might also that the amount of fish being caught on tropical Cross-sec- coral reefs is 64 per higher tion of a than can be reasonably fish ear sustained. bone The findings suggest that (otolith). it would take an additional From this, area of tropical coral growth nearly four times the size of rates can the Great Barrier Reef—the be estim- No more of this. Oil-tanker Prestige biggest reef system in the cated sinks in 2002

world—to sustain current Orange Roughy GREENPEACE levels of fishing. If the com- Double Hulled Tankers mercial exploitation of tropical corals continues at Fish Stocks to Fall as The findings, which has long been pre- The changes occur because for Heavy Oil Now Law in present rates, many reefs dicted by computer models by compar- warmer surface temperatures lead Europe will be irreversibly degrad- Oceans Warms ing nearly a decade of global ocean to changes in the flow of ocean cur- ed, and millions of people satellite data with several records of rents that deliver nutrient-rich water European officials has signed into law a will have to look for other Scientists working with NASA Earth’s changing climate, from the cooler depths to the requirement that only double hulled tank- sources of food. suggests that as warming Each day, they surface. About half of the ers carrying heavy oil can enter European believe warmer ocean temper- “Millions of people are continues, fish stocks in pull in more production generated by the ports. The law was enacted in response to dependent on atures will drastically reduce the tropical and sub-tropical world’s living organisms is done disastrous oil spills from single hulled tank- fisheries. We are facing a amount of plankton available regions will drop signifi- than 100 million by phytoplankton, microscop- ers, the Erika in 1999 and the Prestige in global crisis among com- for sea creatures to eat. cantly. The study showed tonnes of CO ic green plants which operate 2002. munities, which have lim- that in some ocean 2 in the top 100 to 200 metres of President of the European Parliament ited alternative livelihoods regions, microscopic the ocean where light levels Hans-Gert Pottering, said the law repre- or major food sources,” Global warming is creating an ocean plants in the plankton, known as phyto- are high enough for photosynthesis. sents an important response to offshore said Katie Newton of the famine in swaths of tropical and sub-trop- plankton, respond to rising temperatures Each day, they pull in more than 100 tanker accidents and will lead to better University of East Anglia in ical seas. This poses a potential threat to by scaling down their productivity by 30 million tonnes of CO2. ■ protection of the seas and the environ- Norwich. ■ fisheries and ecosystems. percent or more. ment from oil spills. ■

7 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED news Big sharks now ‘functionally extinct’ along the US eastern seaboard Edited by The Demise of the Atlantic Great Edwin Marcow

Shark and Mollusc Populations Oyster

Winners and The rapid decline of the per year to an estimated popu- point. “So many sharks have been Peterson added, “Despite Losers great sharks in the Atlantic lation of 40 million. While Tiger killed that they are functionally the vastness of the oceans, Oceans due to over fishing and Scalloped Hammerhead extinct, which means they can no its organisms are intercon- sharks have declined by more longer perform their role of con- nected, meaning that Winners and accidental by-catch than 97 percent, and Smooth trolling middle predators in the changes at one level have Cownose Ray of Bull, Great White, Dusky Hammerheads and Bull sharks marine ecosystem,” Baum stated implications several steps Smooth Butterfly and Hammerhead sharks have fallen by 99 percent since in a recent CBS news interview. removed. Through our work, Ray the mid-1980’s. By 2004, the scallop popula- the ocean is not so unfath- Little Skate has led to the explosion With this rise of the more tion in the Carolina’s was devas- omable, and we know better Chain Catshark of ray, skate and smaller lowly species of fish—Cownose tated. Bringing to an end North now why sharks matter.” ■ Atlantic Sharpnose shark prey species. Ray, Smooth Butterfly Ray, Little Carolina’s 100-year-old scallop Shark Skate, Chain Catshark, Atlantic fishing industry. This brought tre- Sharpnose Shark—comes the mendous financial hardship to Losers With as many as 73 million sharks collapse of the scallop, oyster, the local fishing community and Bull Shark killed annually worldwide and soft shell and hard clams popula- far reaching consequences for Blacktip Shark with numbers falling rapidly off the tions. The Cownose Ray, which the environment. “This ecological Huge schools of Cownose rays—metre- Scalloped eastern seaboard of the United can grow up to four feet across, event is having a large impact on wide creatures with poisonous stingers and Smooth States, the situation has become will consume large quantities local communities that depend on their tails—are cruising the Atlantic Hammerheads critical. of bivalves including bay scal- so much on healthy fisheries,” coast in unprecedented numbers, wip- Shark “I am not using the word extinc- lops, oysters, soft-shell and hard said Charles Peterson, Professor of ing out scallop beds and threatening Tiger Shark tion at this point. The ecological clams in the bays and estuaries Marine Sciences Biology and oysters and clams Great White Shark terms we would use are function- they frequent during summer and Ecology at the Institute of Mako Shark ally eliminated,” co-author of through which they migrate dur- Marine Sciences at the Dusky Shark a recent published study Julia ing fall and spring—often clear- University of North Sandbar Shark Baum said. “There are simply ing once abundant areas with a Carolina. not enough sharks in this region vibrant scallop population into an to keep the environmental bal- underwater desert devoid of life. ance in check.” This has With an average population brought on far-reach- increase of about eight percent ing unexpected con- per year, the East Coast cownose sequences. ray population may now number With fewer sharks as many as 40 million. there are now more of North Carolina’s now destroyed the fish they once ate. The bay scallop fishing industry is tes- Cownose ray population tament to the domino effect we has jumped have created by removing the eight per cent ocean’s apex predators to the Another “winner” Chain catshark (Scyliorhinus retifer) FROM PLATE IV OF OCEAN ICHTHYOLOGY BY GOODE AND BEAN.

Scallop populations are being wiped out MICHEL LAMBOEUF, FAO VIA FISHBASE 8 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Climate change campaigners need to Australian Researcher news shake off the image of Returns From Very Long being “treehuggers” Dive Edited by and “fanatics”. Willy Volk Australian Lloyd Godson recently returned from a very long dive. Though shallow—he was only five meters underwater—he lived sub aqua for 13 days. In a converted metal box in a flooded gravel pit at Australia’s OCTOBER Wonga Wetlands, Godson—a marine biologist and the winner Early detection is key to winning the battle against Breast of a competition by Australian Cancer. Dive for the Cure is committed to providing Geographic that awarded him early detection information to women and men at all of $40,000 to fulfill his dream of living our events. Join us and get involved! Sign up at: underwater—worked and slept inside his BioSUB, a self-sufficient, www.DiveForTheCure.com self-sustaining only three meters long, 2.4 meters Debra wide, and two meters high. Guess President of Philippines Jimmy Hall, Host Messing he wasn’t playing . Inducted into the Women of 2007’s Shark To generate electricity, Godson pedaled a bike and used solar Divers Hall of Fame Week, Dies panels positioned outside the BioSUB. To generate air, he used President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo You probably know of Jimmy Biocoil technology to grow of the Republic of the Philippines has Hall, even if you don’t think you Chlorella, a unicellular green been inducted into the Women Divers do. The owner of Hawaii Shark Hall of Fame. President Macapagal- Encounters, Hall catapulted Schwarzenegger Says Battle Against Global algae, which he watered with his WWW.NBC.COM own urine, and which absorbed Arroyo has been accorded this honor, to fame in January 2006, after Warming Must Be “Hip and Sexy” to Succeed carbon dioxide and released not only because she is an experienced he entered the water with a 18 Hours in a Tank . While he ate some of , but because of the outstanding Great white and swam with That’s how long Debra Messing’s Global warming is a... um... hot than on making people feel algae, an onshore support crew contributions she has made to both it. The footage of the event trainers needed to teach her topic right now. While some guilty. “Successful movements provided additional water and the marine world and the dive industry. raced across the Internet, and how to swim with a mermaid people are resistant to the idea aren’t built on guilt,” the Governor food, including fruit, nuts and By establishing sanctuaries and a Hall subsequently appeared tail. Messing—the Emmy award that the earth is slowly warming, argued. “They are built on passion.” home-made lasagna. To keep series of mandates for the protection on news shows across the winning star of “Will and Grace”— others are working feverishly Moreover, he warned that climate things interesting, an “Easter of the Philippines’ underwater coral world. Sadly, on May 9, 2007, has been busy learning how to to figure out how to halt the change campaigners needed to shark” swam by with a supply of and marine life, President Macapagal- Hall died. Ironically, he was swim in a mermaid costume for process. In an effort to promote shake off the image of being chocolate eggs, and Godson was Arroyo has committed her government base jumping in Canada her new movie “Lucky You.” In awareness of the issue, Arnold “treehuggers” and “fanatics”. able to chat with the world over to protecting her nation’s natural at the time. Chosen to host the soon-to-be-released romantic Schwarzenegger—the governor Comparing environmentalists a wireless Internet connection. wealth, and has enacted a national 2007’s Shark Week, he was comedy, Messing plays a Las of California, a state considered to “prohibitionists at a fraternity Though it might sound difficult conservation policy for the Philippines to taking a break from filming Vegas aquatic showgirl. The film to be at the vanguard of the party,” the Governor argued to be a real-life Aqua-Man, protect the Coral Triangle, considered the Discovery Channel’s also stars Robert Duvall, Eric fight against global warming— that with positive marketing, Godson claims, “It’s been a lot to be the most diverse ecosystem in juggernaut when he died. Bana, Drew Barrymore. How was recently announced that for environmentalism can become easier than I thought mentally. I the world. Moreover, in 2005, President Our sympathies go out to the experience? According to the environmental movement mainstream and attractive. To thought it was going to be like Arroyo signed a Proclamation declaring Hall’s family, of course, but Messing, “I swam with 20,000 fish to succeed, he thinks it must that end, the next time you see a being locked up in a cupboard, every second week of January as “Best X-RAY MAG would like to underwater in a mermaid costume become “hip and sexy”. person tossing an aluminum can but it’s actually quite fun.” Dives Philippines Week,” promoting local officially nominate itself to dancing to country and western.” Speaking at a conference in in the garbage, be sure to tell I spoke with Godson in February spots while emphasizing be the new host of Shark The swimming with the fish part Washington, he urged campaig- them how much sexier they’d be 2006 about this project. I’m thrilled protection and conservation. ■ Week 2007. Seriously, sounds okay... but the country ners to focus on the positives of if they recycled it. ■ for him that he accomplished SOURCE: TRAVELVIDEO Discovery Channel, we won’t and western music? No thanks! cutting carbon emissions rather SOURCE: BBC his dream. Way to go, Lloyd! ■ even require a salary! ■ ■

9 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED 6 , and 2 Robotic Surgeons news Living 67 Feet Underwater

In May, six aquanauts and two robotic surgeons plunged 67 feet below the Edited by waves of the Atlantic Ocean to test new medical and exploration tools Willy Volk for long-duration spaceflight. Led by Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, the crew consisted of , doctors and divers who lived and worked in NASA’s Extreme Environment Missions Operations (NEEMO) 12, an undersea William Trubridge Breaks laboratory off the Florida coast. For 12 days, the group staged mock Record moonwalks and evaluated two robots: the Raven robot, a portable two- armed automaton built by researchers at the University of Washington; and the M7 surgical In the Bahamas in April, Kiwi freediver robot constructed NASA William Trubridge broke a world record by California’s SRI for freediving. Shattering the previous International. The record held by Czech Martin Stepanek, robots were operated Trubridge descended unassisted to a by surgeons on land depth of 81 meters and swam back to and guided through the surface, requiring only three minutes a series of tasks on and two seconds to complete the a simulated patient. feat. Now, he’s already talking about These “telemedicine” going deeper. According Trubridge, experiments are “I’ve been past that depth in training.” important, according In fact, Trubridge claims he’s already to the crew of the been to 85 meters, but the nervousness NEEMO 12, because brought on by attempting a world record NASA needs to learn makes an attempt all the more difficult. the best ways to Interestingly, Trubridge has only been care for astronauts in YANN SAINT-YVES freediving for about four years. Imagine space. ■ NASA’s Aquarius undersea laboratory what he has left to accomplish. ■ SOURCE: WWW.SPACE.COM SOURCE: WWW.NZHERALD.CO.NZ Freediver Loic Leferme Dies While Mandy-Rae Cruickshank The Peter Benchley Shark Conservation Awards Training Breaks Constant Ballast The Shark Research Institute (SRI) is media, scientific research and Freediving Record In other, sadder, freediving news, an international, multidisciplinary, advocacy. The recipients included French freediver Loic Leferme—former non-profit organization that sponsors Sharkwater, a documentary film In April, Canadian Mandy-Rae holder of the world record for “no and conducts research on sharks about the world of shark finning; Cruickshank broke the record for limit” free diving—died while training and promotes their conservation. Ecocean, a computer program women’s constant ballast freediving (an off Villefranche-sur-Mer, near the SRI created the Peter Benchley that utilizes the body patterns of event in which a person using southern city of Nice. In “no limits” Shark Conservation Awards to whale sharks to catalogue and kicks to depth and returns to the surface freediving, divers descend to depths ensure continuation of Benchley’s track the global movements of under his or her own power) by plunging using a weighted sled, then use a conservation efforts on behalf individual animals; and Sonja 88 meters off Grand Cayman’s Seven balloon system to return to the surface of sharks. The author of Jaws, Fordham, who received the award Mile Beach. A member of Performance at speed. Leferme’s instructor, Cedric Benchley claimed he always for her outstanding efforts as an Freediving International, Cruickshank Palerm, told a French news agency struggled with the portrayal of advocate for shark conservation at had been training in the Cayman that Leferme’s rope got caught on sharks in the media after his national and international forums. Islands for most of April. The women’s something underwater and failed to toothy juggernaut bit X-RAY MAG congratulates the constant ballast record was held return him to the surface following a into worldwide winners and wishes them all previously by Natalia Molchanova of dive to 171 meters. Leferme is survived consciousness. On continued success.■ Russia, who managed to descend 86 by wife, Valerie, and two children. ■ May 8, the Conservation meters. Freediving competitively since Awards were presented 2000, Cruickshank has held seven world in three categories: records. ■ SOURCE: WWW.DIVENEWSWIRE.COM 10 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED New Plastic Might Not Harm NEW! OMS® Ultra Bright Head Lamp Dolphins or Sea Turtles ® A new environmentally friendly plastic that degrades and VEGA in seawater may make life a lot safer for turtles, dol- phins and other marine life. The Ultra Bright 3 W LED Head Lamp and the The biodegradable plastics could replace conven- ® ® tional plastics that are used to make stretch wrap for VEGA flashlight introduced by OMS are two of large cargo items, food containers, eating utensils and the brightest 3W LED luminaries in the world with other plastics used at sea. over 80 lumens output! Both have a burn time of Turtles mistake plastic bags for 3 hours (using CR-123A batteries) and incorporate jellyfish upon which they prey redundant O-Rings for a depth rating to 100 meters. —and end up choking The headlamp can be mounted on a helmet (helmet “There are many groups working on biodegradable plastics, and hardware not supplied) placed on your Hood but we’re one of a few working on plastics that degrade in (band supplied) on your head (band supplied), used seawater,” says study leader Robson F. Storey, a professor of as a Goodman light (strap supplied) or even Polymer Science and Engineering at the University of Southern mounted to your chest strap (band supplied). Best Mississippi (USM). of all both are competively priced. Visit your local “Conventional plastics can take years to break down and ® may result in byproducts that are harmful to the environment authorized OMS dealer for a demonstration. and toxic to marine organisms, conditions that make their dis- posal at sea hazardous,” explained a release from USM. “The new plastics are capable of degrading in as few as 20 days and result in natural byproducts that are nontoxic.” Depending on the composition of the plastics, these compounds may include water, carbon dioxide, lactic acid, glycolic acid, suc- cinic acid, caproic acid and L-lysine, all of which can be found in nature. ■ New species of coral found off Oman coast Two new species of coral have been Rare Reef Found in Scottish Loch discovered off the Oman coast, as well A rare type of coral-like reef as other existing coral species that had has been found in a second previously not been known to live in the location in scotland. region. Serpulids, colourful structures The two new species, discovered by Dr found in only four other spots Michel Claereboudt, a coral reef biolo- in the world—one of them also gist, include the blue coral (Porites dec- in Scotland—have been found ussata) and the 16-finger flower coral growing on the bottom of Loch (Calathiscus tantillus). Teacuis in Argyll. They are built The 16-finger flower coral is very rare by the tubeworm, serpula ver- and unusual, with short-lived colonies micularis, and twist upwards that are found only in Oman including off the sea bed. Serpulids have the Daymaniyat Islands. There are now only previously been found estimated to be approximately 130 spe- growing sparsely in coastal L191 3W LED VEGA Flashlight cies of coral off the coast of Oman, lagoons near Taranto in Italy, much more than was formerly thought Ardbear Lough and Killary to subsist in the region. Scientists believe Harbour in Ireland, and Loch Ocean Management Systems there are probably at least 20 more spe- Creran also in Argyll. ■ cies yet to be discovered, possibly includ- File photo of serpulids. ( NOAA) P.O. Box 146 Montgomery, NY 12549 ing five more new to science. ■ Phone 845.692.3600 ~ Fax 845.692.3623 ~ www.omsdive.com

11 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED WRECK-HEAD LIGHTS+VEGA #1.indd 1 2/22/07 3:28:03 PM & Pressreleases Deep Sea Electric fields could News from NAUI Sounds of give Scuba-Academie shows off Antarctic ‘fish-like’ sense Revealed Robotic and uncrewed submersibles could operate more effectively by mim- at Extreem Duiken event A team of Oregon State icking the way some fish probe their University researchers has surroundings with electric fields, say

On April 14 and sentative for the Netherlands was courses by NAUI, which have returned from Antarctica, NASA researchers. 15, the event there! The tec team, consisting of a high reputation worldwide. near the South Sandwich This relationship between Many marine and freshwater fish can Extreem Duiken Cees den Toom, JP Bresser, Eddy And it was not just informing Islands, where they retrieved earthquakes and ice fields sense electric fields, but some also gen- (extreme diving) van Vliet and Robert interested divers. Some of an array of sensitive hydro- is a new idea and unique to erate their own weak fields over short took place in Leenen, talked them even applied for various phones they are using to listen the region, for this is the only ranges to help navigate, identify objects Antwerp, . to many divers courses, from Intro to Tec to for clues to the unique seis- place at either pole where and even communicate with other fish. The event turned about the tech- Instructor. According to one mology, ice field movements large earthquakes occur in Researchers at Northwestern University in out to be a meeting nical div- ing of the new students, it was and biology of the region. proximity to ice sheets. Chicago, US, studying the biomechanics point for technical “because of the professional- What they have found thus In addition to the sounds of these weakly electric fish, have now divers from ism, the team members show far in analysing the data is a of earthquakes and moving come up with an artificial electric-field the Nether- and their wide experience symphony of sounds reveal- icebergs, the hydrophones sensing system. They say it could ulti- lands and in technical diving of all ing undersea earthquakes, picked up the sounds of mately give robot submersibles the same Belgium. sorts.” the movement of massive numerous birds and marine additional sensory capabilities. Scuba- Would you like to icebergs and the vocalisations mammals including the To maneuver enough to do work Aca- know more? Visit of whales, penguins, elephant vocalization of a pygmy blue in tight quarters, such as coral reefs, demie, www.scuba-acad- seals and other marine mam- whale, which wasn’t known requires not only a high amount of agility, NAUI emie.nl or drop mal species. The scientists to frequent the area. Whales but also being able to sense in all direc- repre- us an email at were particularly intrigued have unique “voices” that tions. Electro-location is perfect for this. info@scuba-acad- by the humming sounds cannot only be differentiated The researcher’s electro-location system emie.nl. ■ recorded from the move- by species, the research- consists of two field-emitting electrodes ment of icebergs following the ers say, but by geographic and two voltage-sensing electrodes. Technical divers earthquakes. Icebergs that dialect. In other words, blue These electrode pairs are arranged at unite! JP Bresser(left) are grounded on the seafloor whales from one part of opposite corners of a diamond, and with often get slowly pushed by the world have a different were submerged in shallow water for currents and wind, causing “accent” than blue whales testing purposes. If the electric field is not them to vibrate like a tuning from the other side of the disturbed by anything in the water, the Coast Guard Accepts NAUI Training Course fork and make a loud hum. globe. ■ two pairs of sensor electrodes should pro- NAUI is pleased to announce Training and Assessment Division Once again, NAUI is recog- vide identical readings. But if something the acceptance of our new accepting our course. The let- nized as a leader in educa- is placed within a few centimetres of the Training Course by the ter states that our course “meets tion, training and safety in the Blue whale blowing sensors, the field is disturbed and causes United States Coast Guard. or exceeds the standards of the industry. a variance in the sensor readings. This is in addition to meeting American Red Cross Standard This new First Aid Training Since the position of the object affects International Liaison Committee First Aid and Emergency Care Course trains community the way the electric field is disturbed, on Resuscitation (ILCOR) recom- or Multimedia Standard First members, divers and lead- a computer can use a series of sensor mendations. Aid and will satisfy the first aid ers in the knowledge and readings to determine the object’s loca- Shortly after the publication training requirements of 46 CFR skills needed to render emer- tion. It is even possible to detect small of our First Aid Textbook and 10.205(h)(1)(iii) for a merchant gency care at the scene of objects by amplifying subtle perturba- Instructor Guide, we submitted mariner license.” an accident or respond to tions in the field. our instructional materials to the The approval is effective June an emergency. NAUI course The research was presented at the United States Coast Guard for 1, 2007. We are elated that the graduates are considered International Conference on Robotics their review and possible recog- quality and thoroughness of our competent to perform con- and Automation (ICRA), held in Rome, nition and approval. We have new first aid course has warrant- sistent with the level of train- Italy, in April 2007. ■ just received a letter from their ed this recognition by the USCG. ing completed. ■ FRED BENKO - NOAA CENTRAL LIBRARY 12 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Assistant Tourism Secretary Cynthia Carrion and Michael Aw sign an agreement, which sees the next Celebrate the Seas event held in news the Philippines this September help much either. Why weren’t these two Edited by shows put together!? Instead, ADEX was Peter Symes merged with a boat show—in the same hall too—a combination that I have never seen working properly anywhere. Boaters and divers just don’t mix for some reason; they are breeds apart. Putting them both in a badly signed annex to most exhibitors. Many of those present the main convention center didn’t score expressed that they looked forward to the many points either. next one. It wasn’t like the expo was all together bad—there were plenty of booths, pres- entations, talks and other events of the usual infotainment—but for a show that Bangkok – The city greets you with an boasts at being the biggest and most intensity like few other places on Earth. important in Asia, it did not meet the It is huge, it is vibrant, dense and messy. standards and expectations. Myriads of people, construction going However, herein also lies a paradox as on everywhere and oh… the worst traf- some attendees—like myself for exam- fic jams on the planet. In one breath ple—actually get more quality time with you can inhale the scent of jasmins and the people we need to see, because orchids, a whiff of sewer, a mouth water- they are less busy with other people and ing sweet smell of street food, charcoal serving the general audience. The trade smoke and car exhaust. That was the aspect was absolutely worthwhile. But I backdrop for the 2007 edition of the Asia think I speak for the minds of most of the Dive Expo, aka ADEX among insiders. other exhibitors bu saying that we look forward to ADEX in 2008, when it is back So, how was the show? Well.. in Singapore. And despite this hiccup we ummm... it was like being invited over remain fervent supporters of this event. ■ for dinner, and then the host serves you horrible food, which is burnt or maimed. Criticizing the host is not one of my favourite pastimes but this show was—let me put it this way—less than optimal for most. First of all, the choice of venue, Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition like the norm, as traffic was plainly dread- Archipelago Fleet had a Centre (BITEC) was not a good one, as it ful. It was not workable. Whether the dis- busy show was quite a ride out of town and away tance to the city centre was also respon- from the hotels. It was ridiculous in fact; it sible for making the public’s turnout It is a public secret that of took a +20-minute ride by taxi, and that mediocre at best, is anyone’s guess, but the two cities that ADEX alter- was on those rare occasions, i.e. in the having another dive show—the Thailand nates between, Bangkok and evenings where there was little traffic. Travel & Dive Expo scheduled already for Singapore, the latter is widely However, in the mornings where I had to May 24th in the far more conveniently regarded as the bigger, more head out to the show from my hotel dur- downtown located Queen Sirikit National popular and, consequently, a ing rush hour, 90 minutes seemed more Convention Center—probably didn’t far more interesting venue for Exhibitors looking forward to ADEX 2008 in Singapore Impressions of ADEX 2007 in Bangkok all too forgettable

13 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Solomons quake lifts island up news by 3m and exposes reef

Edited by The earthquake that triggered April’s Mr Kennedy said the most beautiful Peter Symes “The news from Simeulue is not all bad” tsunami in the Solomons lifted the corals were also the most delicate, entire island of Ranongga up by and they had suffered the worst 3metres, exposing coral reefs that are destruction. “The fear is that people now becoming bleached and dying. are going to come here and see the Massive Coral Death Attributed to 2005 The tsunami destroyed houses in reefs are damaged, then tell people low-lying areas, killing 30 to 40 peo- not to come back for a few years until Indonesian Earthquake ple, they are recovered.” The 8.0 magnitude quake has per- The coral reefs of the western In March, scientists from the Wildlife Dr Campbell adds “The news from manently changed the island’s geog- Solomons, including Ranongga’s, were Conservation Society investigated the Simeulue is not all bad. At many sites, raphy, One villager told an Agence ranked among the best in the world. condition of coral reefs in Pulau Simeulue the worst affected species are begin- -Presse (AFP) reporter that the Now reefs all over the disaster zone and Pulau Banyak off Aceh, , ning to re-colonize the shallow reef quake almost split Ranongga in half are dying, because the violent move- The surveys covered 35 sites along 600 areas. The reefs appear to be return- with cracks up to 50cm wide appear- ments of the earth disturbed the frag- kms of coastline, have documented, for ing to what they looked like before the ing. The shoreline now extends out to ile ecosystem. the first time, the effects of earthquake earthquake, although the process may sea by another 70m in places and its “The whole food chain has been uplift on coral reefs. The entire island of take many years. fringing reefs have been transformed disrupted,” said Jackie Thomas, act- Simeulue, with a perimeter of approxi- “The challenge now is to work with into a barren moonscape. The coral, ing manager for WWF in the Solomons. mately 300 km, was raised up to 1.2 m local communities and government once colourful and has now dried out The reefs around Ranongga were a following the 28 March 2005 earthquake, agencies to protect these reefs to and turned into brittle sculptures. protected marine environment, and exposing most of the coral reefs which ensure the recovery process continues,” Locals are still struggling to digest the locals had worked with WWF in ringed the island. he says. The team found coral reefs the enormity of the changes wrought recent years to manage them sustain- Dr Stuart Campbell coordinator of the ranging from highly diverse assemblages on their mountainous island, 32km ably. “Now it’s another marine envi- Wildlife Conservation Society –Indonesia of branching corals in sheltered waters long by 8km wide. Danny Kennedy, ronment that has been destroyed,” Marine Program reports: “This to vast areas of table corals inhabiting a dive operator based on Ghizo, the she said. “Who knows if the coral reefs is a story of mass mortality on ‘None surf zones. The team also documented, main island. predicted that the tour- will recover and the fish will come a scale rarely observed. In for the first time in Indonesia, extensive ism industry could be seriously affect- back?” “Villagers will have to travel contrast to other threats like Survived’ damage to reefs caused by the crown- ed. “Diving is huge here, it employs so further to find the same food and coral bleaching, none of the Uplift of-thorn starfish, a coral predator that many local people,” he told AFP. nutrition they’ve relied on.” ■ corals uplifted by the earth- has devastated reefs in Australia and quake have survived.” other parts of the world. ■

Coral reef on Simeulue. File photo from 2006 The reefs Caribbean Coral Reefs Result of Mass Extinction appear to and Rise of Isthmus be return- Extinctions that resulted America divided a once restrial animals migrated from the formation of the great ocean into the between the once sepa- ing to what Panamanian isthmus were Caribbean Sea and Pacific rated continents, as well as they looked delayed two million years Ocean we know today. The a mass extinction among according to a new study. closure of the isthmus even- some marine species. like before the The findings may have impli- tually led to the develop- The new research, pub- earthquake, cations for global species ment of coral reef ecosys- lished in the March 12 although the extinction and evolution. tems in the Caribbean and issue of the Proceedings of Three to four-and-a- the formation of a nutrient- the National Academy of process may half million years ago, rich, current in the Sciences, focused on this take many the volcanic rise of the Pacific. It also caused the extinction of marine spe- Panamanian land bridge so-called “Great American cies. ■ years. between North and South Interchange” where ter- FRANCESCO RICCIARDI 14 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Pacific whirlpools are ‘floating oases of life’    news Huge whirlpools of nutrient-rich      coastal waters are spinning away from the US west coast into deep Edited by Pacific water, taking with them a      Peter Symes wealth of marine life ranging from tiny plankton to huge whales. It is coastal water they believed that whales are in eddies contain shows up in the colder, because they find more food there. deeper Pacific. Now research scien- SeaCure™ Custom Mouthpiece The eddy water has iron in it, which tists want to know if salmon, too, are is moldable and remoldable. Countries Agree to End stimulates plankton growth living in what they call “floating oases The eddies, which can be hundreds of life”, because it would help predict Created by an orthodontist, of kilometres in diameter, are visible how many salmon are returning to SeaCure is designed from satellites because the warm spawn in B.C. rivers. ■ to fit Deep-Sea Bottom Trawling your mouth, teeth, and A new agreement to restrict deep sea It is a very indiscriminate and destruc- gums . . . PERFECTLY. trawling in the South Pacific ocean tive way of fishing. Ahead of the net affirms earlier moves by Pacific coun- are some steel rollers that clear the Available at your local . tries to protect their marine resources. path for the net to come behind, so The agreement covers a quarter of the that the net doesn’t snag on anything, world’s oceans and will restrict fishing Anything that’s in the way of the net, vessels from dragging huge weighted like corals or sponges, gets rolled over. nets across the sea floor. , the United States, France, More than 20 countries have agreed Japan, Chile and South Korea were www.seacure1.com to work together to end bottom trawling, among the countries signing the which is a multi-million dollar industry, but agreement. Russia however did not causes huge damage to the environ- sign, and says it will continue fishing in ment as it destroys deep-water coral. the same way. ■ UWE KILS Leptocephalus larva of an ocean eel US Court Slams Government Sea Creatures to Be Tracked Over “Dolphin-Safe”Tuna Worldwide Mystery of the Sargasso Sea Solved The U.S. government has arbitrarily and Researchers are planning a worldwide For years, scientists were puzzled by the vast blooms of phytoplankton that capriciously sought to ease rules for effort to track the movement of sea erupted in the middle of the Sargasso Sea. The region is warmer, saltier, bluer foreign fisherman on “dolphin-safe” creatures tagged with tiny electronic and clearer than most other parts of the North Atlantic, and it was thought that tuna, a U.S. federal appeals court ruled devices. Sea life ranging from salmon the region was the desert of the ocean, with few signs of life. upholding current standards. to whales, turtles to sharks, will be But oxygen and other elements were being consumed at a higher rate than The dispute involves the use of huge tagged, so they can then be tracked theories and models could account for, leading scientists to think there must “purse seine” nets, As decades of as they swim past arrays of sensors be some nutrient source fueling the blooms. In a new study detailed in the May such fishing dramatically lowered the placed at critical locations in the 18 issue of the journal Science, researchers have shown that eddies—episodic numbers of certain species of dolphins, oceans. The goal is to eventually have swirling current systems—pump nutrients up the U.S. Congress enacted a law in 5,000 ocean receivers arranged in 60 from the ocean’s depths to feed the phyto- 1990 that said companies could not lines worldwide capable of tracking plankton. market tuna as “dolphin-safe” if they up to one million animals at the same The very salty Sargasso Sea is home to some caught the fish by purposely surround- time. The Ocean Tracking Network “will seaweed of the genus Sargassum. This sea- ing dolphins with the nets. Officials in foster a deeper understanding of the weed floats en masse on the surface there. Latin America have since lobbied for a effects of climate change and help The Sargasso Sea also plays a major role in less stringent rule that would allow the shape fisheries and endangered spe- the migration of the European eel and the “dolphin-safe” label if observers on the cies management worldwide,” Peter American eel. The larvae of both species foreign boats had not seen dolphins MacKay, Canada’s minister of foreign hatch there and go to Europe and/or the East killed or seriously injured. ■ affairs said in a prepared statement. ■ Coast of North America.■

15 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED More news from SDI Training Bulletin New Specialty Course

International Training has agency apart from the compe- released a completely tition,” explained . Edited by rewritten student and Brian Carney, president of Peter Symes International Training added instructor materials for that since the initial release its unique SDI Solo Diver of SDI’s solo program several Specialty Course. years ago, the agency has pro- News from SDI moted solo diving as an option The all new solo diver edu- for experienced divers Online cational system includes a engaged in certain activities. completely revised 100-page “Let’s be clear that SDI’s posi- Specialty Course student manual, a full instruc- tion has always been that solo tor guide, new electronic aca- diving requires experienced SDI is breaking new territory demic presentation, two-piece scuba divers willing to make the dive-planning slate and student necessary commitment to train once again with the launch of knowledge quest. and equip themselves to man- the first in its series of online spe- “The solo course is one of age the added risks involved,” cialty courses: Deep Diving. SDI’s most popular specialties Carney explained. “A person and one of the many innova- with the required attitude and “If we have learned anything from the tive ideas we have pioneered aptitude can safely pursue feedback from our online training initia- over the years. It has set our responsible solo diving.” ■ tives in the past couple of years, it’s been that the consumer loves learning this way,” explained Brian Carney, president of SDI. “They see it as convenient and USA & Canada: fun. But the most important lesson was that they wanted more courses offered Oxygen is Now this way!” The SDI Deep Diving specialty is pre- Easier to Obtain sented in a similar format to the popular Open Water and Easy programs, Praxair has devel- where students purchase a sign-up code and select a dive center through which oped a process by case of an emergency. These to conduct their training. With this code which DAN providers guidelines seem to have caused entered into the secure system and a and trainers can obtain confusion for the DAN-certified simple sign-up procedure completed, medical-grade oxygen. oxygen providers who were they can begin their academic training seeking to have their oxygen immediately. For many U.S. providers, this is cylinders filled. The proven online system sends auto- welcome news. From this point Since this pronouncement, matic notification to the dive store when forward, DAN-certified Oxygen DAN Training has pursued oxy- the student enrolls in the course and Providers can obtain oxygen gen fill companies to reach an allows an instructor associated with that fills from Praxair throughout the agreement on providing fills. facility to track the student’s progress United States and Canada. As of April 9, 2007, DAN has through the course. When the final exam Over the past decade, getting reached an agreement with is completed, the student is reminded to fills for oxygen equipment has Praxair, Inc., headquartered in contact the store for the fun part of the been challenging at times. Danbury, Conn. That agreement class—the diving—and a full report of the In 1996, the U.S. Food and will enable DAN-trained and student’s progress through the course Drug Administration issued DAN-certified Oxygen Providers and their exam results are made avail- guidelines that prohibited the to obtain oxygen fills through able for instructor review. ■ dispensing of oxygen without any Praxair retail location in the www.sdi-onlinetraining.com a prescription, except in the U.S. and Canada. ■

16 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED tile your bath wreck �����Puts More Ogle in Your Goggle! with nudibranchs Flat masks block over 75% of your natural field-of-view. Enjoy natural rap panoramic vision. See almost 5X more through a Double-Dome™ lens Affectionately perfected with NASA technology. NanoFOG™ coating, applied at the known as the factory, ensures fog-free dives. Only naturally nearsighted divers (broad orchids of the Rx range) can use the MEGA® 4.5DD mask with their naked eyes. But over sea, nudibranchs 700 divers around the world with 20/20 vision wear disposable contact come in lots of lenses to use this mask. These divers become temporarily nearsighted. The delicate shapes incredible view is worth the effort. Endorsed by 1,000 eye doctors worldwide. Older divers love the Magic Bifocal phenomenon. Seeing is believing! and vibrant colours China: Ancient Ceramics Discovered Off Xisha Islands www.HydroOptix.com LLC © 2006 HydroOptix Chinese archaeologists have recovered around 10,000 pieces of antique pottery and porcelain in an underwater Treasure Smugglers Remains excavation of a believed to date back to the Sunken object may be Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) in the Xisha Islands in a Challenge for the Chinese Chile’s long-lost the . The findings provide important evidence of an estab- Foreign smugglers and antiques collectors and dealers since the The Chilean navy and marine scien- lished between China and the rest of the raiders are using sophisticated sal- beginning of 2005, when about tists say they may have located the world in the 13th century, according to Zhang Wei, the vage equipment to steal China’s 15,000 pieces, mainly blue-and- Flach on the seabed in the Bay of lead archaeologist for the 55-day excavation in the Xisha underwater treasures, an inves- white porcelain about 300 years Valparaiso,140 km west of the capital Get your cool Islands. tigation by the Cultural Heritage old, were found in a 13.5 meter Santiago. high quality “What we found from the shipwreck on Huaguang Reef Administration has found. sunken ship off the coast of East The 12-metre vessel was Latin ceramic tiles with No.1 are pearls of the ancient Silk Road on the sea,” said In China’s territorial sea, there China’s Fujian Province. America’s first submarine designed in photographs of Zhang, “and it is first time we have found such precious are thousands of sunken ships The relics are traded on the the 1860s by German immigrant, Karl brightly coloured antiques in the high seas.” carrying ancient treasures, mostly international waters beyond Flach, and made several successful beautiful nudibranchs The wreck, 20 meters long and six meters wide, was priceless porcelain. AFP reports a China’s maritime boundaries test voyages in 1866. But on May 3 by Nonoy Tan of stumbled upon by a group of Chinese fishermen in 1996, government official as saying the before they are shipped to mar- of that year, it sank. The crew—two the Philippines three meters below the sea water near Huaguang Reef. ■ smugglers are being financed by kets worldwide, many to the Chileans, two Frenchmen and seven and Scott Bennett international black market sales of United States. Besides underwater Germans, including Flach and his of Canada — the mostly blue and white porce- heritage artefacts, cultural items 15-year-old son—all died. Three days just $8.99 each! Song . lain relics. from ethnic minority groups, such later, the crew of a British frigate Plus, a percent 13th century Shan Jixiang, director of the as costumes and musical instru- located the vessel and tried to raise of all sales painting State Administration of Cultural ments, are also a favorite among it, but it was stuck in thick mud some goes to help Heritage, told China Daily that the international dealers and smug- 50 metres below the surface. save their illegal foreign salvage ships were glers, Shan said. The Chinese gov- home — often equipped with the most ernment has recovered a “great Since then, no one has seen it. the sea! advanced technology, in contrast number” of cultural heritage items with rudimentary ships and equip- stolen from the country in the past “This object, its dimensions—a steel ment used by Chinese archae- few decades, he said without tube topped by cannons—its posi- ologists and conservationists, elaborating. tion, the way it’s facing and the who are trying to protect China has signed agreements depth it’s at, are all extremely similar China’s underwater herit- with four countries—Peru, the to the characteristics of the Flach,” age. Philippines, India and Italy—on the the Navy said in a statement. The Smuggler activities protection and recovery of cul- team looking for the Flach say it have been partic- tural heritage. The first one, signed was the first submarine built in Latin ularly heavy over the with Peru in 2000, has ensured America and only the fifth in the last two years. China’s “effective cooperation” as both world to make a successful underwa- underwater heritage countries now share substantial ter journey. ■ the x-ray mag store has been pursued by art intelligence on stolen relics. ■ www.cafepress.com/xraymag

17 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Ships Two Reefs Bills Clear First Hurdles in Florida

wreck Bills in the Florida House and Administration (NOAA) and when large ships are deployed Senate designed to help Florida State University indicates as artificial reefs. The Pensacola rap increase the number of artificial that Florida’s pro- Florida Convention and Visitors reefs was passed unanimously, gram has been a world leader for Bureau invested $1 million dollars without question or comment, many years in dollars generated in bringing the former Oriskany by the Senate Environmental and jobs created. The recent to Pensacola, and recently esti- Making a booming business—the Conservation Committee on overwhelming economic suc- mated their entire investment was sinking of Oriskany gave a return March 22. cess of the former USS Oriskany returned during the three days of investment in three days Research by the National demonstrates the economic immediately after the former air- Oceanic and Atmospheric possibilities for local communities craft carrier was sunk. ■

Tech Divers to : Divers demand acccess Dive the Stella Polaris to British WWI battleship Majestic The Dardanelles—dubbed the Around 06:45, Commander Otto dream wreck for both Turkish On September 2, city with the most Hersing of the U-21 fired a single and international divers, but div- 2006, the first-class of war in its waters—has been torpedo through the defensive ing it has never been possible, luxury liner Stella one of the most important div- screen of destroyers and anti-tor- since it is located in a restricted Polaris sank to a ing destinations in the world with pedo nets, striking Majestic and area. The shipwreck—the silhou- Quake brings WWII depth of 72 meters numerous shipwrecks hidden in causing a huge explosion. The ette of which can be seen from off the coast of the depths of its waters. Among ship began to list to port, and in a depth of 15 meters— remains PT boat up from ocean Kushimoto, Japan. them lies the British warship, the nine minutes, had capsized in 16 among the most attractive ship- floor Situated in the Majestic—Pre-Dreadnought bat- metres of water, killing 49 men. wrecks, especially for British and Kuroshio current—the tleship sunk by the German sub- The upturned hull remained vis- Australian divers, due to its live Wreckage from a World War second strongest marine U-21 in 1915 during the ible for many months, until it was bombs, tilted observation tower, II torpedo boat was tossed up tidal current in the battle of Gallipoli. finally submerged during a storm chimneys and underwater fauna from the sea in the Solomon world (after the Gulf The Majestic, which weighed on the night of November 17. around it. Islands after a powerful 8.1 Stream) with speeds 14,900 gross tons and was 119 Lying at a depth of only 33 Turgay Yeğin, professional earthquake hit the area in up to 4 knots—the meters long with a crew of 757, meters in the Seddülbahir Feneri diver for 25 years and scuba div- early April, Jay Waura of the dive is considered was the most powerful and dis- trict, it has ing instructor, told the Anatolia National Disaster Management extremely challeng- important warship of the allied remained news agency that the shipwreck Office said the explosive-laden ing. Despite the dan- fleet. Under the command of a could be utilized for tourism and boat was exposed when reefs gers involved, the Captain H. F. G. Talbot, Majestic can contribute to the region’s were pushed up three meters Stella Polaris will be joined the Mediterranean economy. “Thousands of peo- above sea level by the April 2 explored by a dive Fleet and participated in the ple from abroad want to dive quake, which caused a dev- team composed Dardanelles Campaign includ- and see the Majestic, as that astating tsunami in the western of members from ing the final attempt to is what divers dream of. Those that killed 52 , , the the straits by naval power who wish to recall the memory of people. UK and Japan. Using alone on March 18, 1915. the Gallipoli War and live those The Solomons’ coastline is CCRs, the team plans On May 27, Majestic moments want to come here. still littered with decaying mili- to dive the wreck became the third However, they cannot dive. We tary wrecks from World War II, for ten days starting battleship to be tor- believe that at least control- including the torpedo patrol May 22nd, in order pedoed off the led diving to the Majestic boat commanded by U.S. to photograph and Gallipoli penin- should be allowed in terms President John F. Kennedy. “My film it. In addition to sula in two of country and regional team members believe that this a ripping current and weeks. tourism.” ■ boat could have been one of extreme depth, the those U.S. torpedo boats such team is also hoping as the famous PT-109, which the area’s sharks will the late U.S. President John F. leave them alone. ■ Kennedy had served aboard during the war,” Waura said. ■

18 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Treasure hunters can also go All recovered items have identity, if possible, of the shipwreck. SS Republic, a shipwreck lost in 1865 off been legally imported “Our research suggests that there were the US coast. The deep ocean robotic bankrupt wreck into the Unites States and a number of Colonial period shipwrecks archaeological excavation of that site International treasure hunters who have placed in a secure, undis- that were lost in the area where this site produced approximately 65,000 artifacts, been searching for colonial shipwrecks off rap closed location where they is located, so we are being very cau- including over 50,000 coins with a retail the Jamaican coast under a licence from are undergoing conserva- tious about speculating as to the pos- value of over US$75 million. ■ the government have declared bankruptcy. tion and documentation. sible identity of the shipwreck,” said John US-based Admiralty Holding Company It is believed that this recovery Morris, Odyssey Co-founder and CEO. announced in April that it has ceased opera- constitutes the largest collection of coins “Nevertheless, we have treated this tions, as it has been unable to get funding ever excavated from a historical ship- site with kid gloves and the to continue its search and recovery efforts. wreck site. They were recovered in con- archaeological work done by A release from Admiralty states that it is in a formity with Salvage Law and the Law our team out there is unsur- dire financial condition. ■ of the Sea Convention, beyond the ter- passed. We are thoroughly ritorial waters or legal jurisdiction of any documenting and recording

In what is believed to be the larg- country. The company does not believe the site, which we believe will est collection of coins ever exca- that the recovery is subject to sovereign have immense historical sig- vated from a historical shipwreck, immunity by any nation pursuant to the nificance.” Law of the Sea Convention. “The remarkable condition Odyssey Marine Exploration The work accomplished to date on this of most of the first 6,000 silver recently recovered over 500,000 site has diligently followed archaeologi- coins conserved has been a silver coins weighing more than cal protocols using advanced robotic pleasant surprise, and the gold coins are Odyssey officials looks at coins recovered 17 tonnes, hundreds of gold technology, and the artifacts are now almost all dazzling mint state specimens.” from the “Black Swan” shipwreck undergoing a meticulous conservation said Greg Stemm, Odyssey’s Co-founder. coins, worked gold and other process by some of the world’s most “We are excited by the wide range of Odyssey Marine Entertainment, Inc., will artifacts, from the wreck of a experienced coin conservators. dates, origins and varieties of the coins, open SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure, an © ©Stephen Frink Colonial period shipwreck code- The company is not prepared to dis- and we believe that the collecting com- interactive shipwreck and treasure exhibit named “Black Swan”, located close the possible identity of the ship- munity will be thrilled when they see the at the Museum of Science & Industry in wreck at this time, and may only do so quality and diversity of the collection.” Tampa, Florida. The 12,000 square foot in an undisclosed location in the after thoroughly examining the artifacts, The excavation of this site follows exhibit is scheduled to run from June 22, Atlantic Ocean. analyzing the research and proving the Odyssey’s successful excavation of the 2007 through January 31, 2008.

The HMS Sussex was lead- Odyssey’s archaeologists Search for more ing a British fleet into the say they have identified a site sunken gold to Mediterranean for a war with cannons and ship remains Bonaire’s most spacious against France and its leader, that seem to match that of the waterfront Condos. Located resume Louis XIV, when it sank in a Sussex and agree with British storm in 1694 with 500 men and naval records as to where the in front of the Caribbean’s Odyssey Marine Exploration 80 guns aboard. vessel went down. “Basically, I #1 Reef. Ask about our Ride has concluded negotiations Historians believe the 48m would be very surprised if this with Spanish officials and can warship was carrying nine site is not the Sussex,” Greg to the Reef Packages with now resume a once-suspended tonnes of gold coins for buying Stemm, co-chairperson of Free Nitrox Upgrades! search for the wreck of a British the loyalty of the Duke of Savoy, Odyssey. vessel, the HMS Sussex, in the a potential ally in southeastern Odyssey had already begun 1-800-288-4773 western Mediterranean off France. The coins are believed exploration work off southern [email protected] Spain, according to the foreign to be worth anywhere from Spain but suspended it in 2005 www.SandDollarBonaire.com ministry. US$500 million to US$4 billion. after complaints from Spain. ■

19 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED news How Jellyfish See Things Box jellyfish are active swimmers with a strong directional www.underwater.com.au sense, able of performing rapid u-turns and moving in Edited by between objects. How do they do it? Box jellyfish have Peter Symes four morphologically different types of eyes. Two of these eye types, called the upper and lower lens eyes, are camera type eyes with spherical fish-like lenses. Dr Anders Garm of Lund University, Sweden, has now demonstrated Florida Cave Divers that obstacle avoidance was visually guided and likely Discover 2 Miles of mediated by the lower lens eye, as it was found that the jellyfish did not respond to objects above the surface of

Underground Caves the water, which are detected by the upper lens eye.

More importantly, the strength of response correlated Recently, divers with the with the intensity contrast between the obstacle and its Woodville Karst Plain Project surroundings. “Contrast is important, because without announced that they had contrast, the object cannot be detected by any eye,” discovered almost two miles says Dr Garm. However, there are two kinds of visual con- of cave passages extending trast: colour contrast and intensity contrast. “Obstacle northwest from Florida’s avoidance is governed by intensity contrast, which fits close to caves with our other data, which strongly suggest that the jelly- US Navy patentdive reveals in. extending from Leon Sinks. This fish are, in fact, colour blind.” ■ discovery almost completes a SOURCE: SOCIETY FOR EXPERIMENTAL BIOLOGY underwater sound weap- quest—begun in 1990!—to find on a link between Leon Sinks and explore. Wakulla Springs. It is believed A recent patent reveals yet that the two cave systems Jellyfish halts Hollywood production another new weapon that takes are now separated only by DR ANDERS GARM a slightly differentdiscover. path towards a distance of between 1,000 Irukandji jellyfish are among the world’s most toxic crea- A new study suggest jellyfish use contrast to avoid objects its target. While this one is uncon- feet and one mile. According tures. Until recently, it was thought that they were con- ventional, it certainly doesn’t to Casey McKinlay, one of the fined to Australia’s northern tropical waters, but marine appear to be non-lethal, employ- divers on the discovery, the biologists have now found them off Queensland’s Fraser ing to generate acoustic cave system grows to as large Island—a popular tourist spot about 400 miles south of Restaurants take bottomfish off menus remote cavitation, which can as 50 feet across. The cave their previously assumed range. The Hawaiian Department of they’d get the fish from the supposedly destroy torpedoes, system could be even wider, Their discovery has halted production of a Hollywood Land and Natural Resources has Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, mines, and any other objects in but the divers were forced to film, Fool’s Gold, starring Kate Hudson and Matthew banned commercial and recrea- where limited bottomfishing its path. The Navy also states that abandon their exploration, as McConaughey, who were originally due to be filmed tional fishing from May through in the Papahanaumokuakea can be done from a distance they were low on air. ■ swimming in the sea. r Jamie September for onaga, ‘ehu, Marine National Monument is still of up to one kilometer away, Seymour, from James Cook gindai, ‘opakapaka, kalekale, allowed, or import the fish from which is apparently far greater University, stated he had found lehi and hapu’upu’u found in the other countries. than other similar examples of the five of the creatures off the island. main Hawaiian islands. “We want to help decrease “They have the potential to kill Now TS Restaurants, which the year-round demand for you,” he said. “But unless you owns Duke’s Waikiki and six other these slow-growing fish,” Moon really know what you’re looking island establishments, and Hawaii said. “We don’t want to just shift for, you’re not going to see them chef Peter Merriman, who owns demand to other areas. We think in the water.” two Big Island eateries, have our customers will realize this is If the Irukandji migrate south taken the tasty and popular fish the right thing to do... We’ve sold in sufficient numbers, they would off their rotating menus all togeth- a lot of bottomfish and made a threaten southern Queensland’s er to protect the sustainability of nice reputation for that,” he said. Gold and Sunshine Coast holiday the overfished species, Richard “But we’ve changed the thinking destinations. ■ Moon, TS Restaurants’ vice presi- of the company. When things are dent told Associated Press. in danger, we need to pay atten- Tailgating the lone dugong, KAT, on Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Other restaurants have said tion.” ■ Photographed by Karen Willshaw ~ underwater.com.au member

20 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Sharm El Sheik nominated for the Aqua-trek on heading for travel industry’s annual Oscars prestigeous international award Travel News The Egyptian resort town in the Red Sea has been nomi- The World Travel & Tourism Council of London nated as best African destination in the14th annual World announced the finalists for the 2007 Tourism for Travel Awards. But not only is the town nominated, but so Tomorrow Awards and Aqua-Trek, a scuba diving com- have many of the area’s countless resorts and hotels. pany in the Fiji Islands, is one of three awards finalists Edited by Peter & Gunild Symes The nominations fall across a range of categories, high- chosen for the conservation category. Tourism business- lighting the incredible diversity of accommodation and es from all over the world applied for these prestigious activities that Sharm El Sheik has developed to maximise awards, which represent the highest accolade for best its incredible natural setting. ■ practice in Travel & Tourism development. ■ Curacao Targets Female Travelers Today’s traveling divas will enjoy the For women who want it all, Curacao offering a seven-night package of hik- night, parties and trips to the Dutch adulating attentions of the Dutch is the ideal unique vacation desti- ing, scuba diving, and kayak- colonial city of Willemstad. Caribbean Island of Curacao, which nation with beautiful and ing, May 1 - July 31. The deal includes The Stretch, Shop, Sip & Soothe is now offering unique packages that historic landmarks and architecture. lodging in the Oceanfront Superior Package offered by the Curacao cater to women and their vacation Adventurous women will find excite- Room starting at US$1250 for double Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino dreams. Going above and beyond to ment at Sunset Waters Beach Resort, occupancy. They also offer a fun-filled is for girlfriends who want to escape please the most discriminating female a place well-known for its serene and Sizzling Singles Week in September for to paradise and includes resort view jet-setters, Curacao hoteliers are offer- secluded location and lovely private those looking to meet new friends or accommodations, yoga and massages ing special deals on adventure pack- beach with easy access to some of perhaps a new love. It includes snor- on the beach, cocktails and shopping ages to single week stays. Curacao’s best diving. The resort is keling, scuba diving lessons, casino sprees in downtown Willemstad. ■

Win a FREE TRIP Aboard Solmar V St. Kitts Foundation Great Barrier Reef Named Fund The 112-foot Solmar V luxury live-aboard World’s Best Destination The St. Kitts Foundation, a fund of dive vessel, based in Cabo San Lucas, The Ocean Foundation, is hosting Recently, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef—the world’s Mexico, visits the Socorro Islands, Sea of the “Southeast Peninsula Marine largest living organism and pretty much every Cortez and Guadalupe Island. Ecosystem Survey Week” on the scuba diver’s fantasy—was voted the planet’s best island of St. Kitts to get a real-time destination by the World Travel & Tourism Council snapshot of the fish and corals as part of its Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. Beating The new owners have just Other ways to win a free trip these waters harbor and their cur- out more than 130 entries from 40 countries across launched a new website. As part include the Solmar V Photo rent health status. seven continents, the win is considered the foremost of the celebration they are offer- Contest, YouTube Video Two expert US-based organiza- accolade for sustainable tourism. Amazingly, the GBR ing four ways to win a FREE TRIP to Contest, or just by subscribing to tions, REEF and Reef Relief, will is believed to generate an estimated US$5 billion in the Socorro Islands. their eNEWS newsletter for a ran- lead local divers in on-land train- tourism earnings each year and supports roughly Solmar V has teamed up with dom drawing. ings and in-water surveys. A third 50,000 jobs along the Queensland coast. ■ Atomic Aquatics to bring you US-based organization, Earth Echo a one-of-a-kind Trading Card To get you started in the Trading International and its Executive Arroyo Restricts Manila Bay Reclamation Treasure Hunt. There are 20 trad- Card Treasure Hunt, X-RAY MAG Director , will be ing card designs that you can is providing a link to one of the documenting the coral-damag- President Gloria Arroyo curtailed reclamation activities collect. Be the first to collect ten Trading Cards. ing sediment from soil erosion and along the famed Manila Bay and declared 175-hec- Solmar V Trading Cards and win a You won’t find this card any- nutrient runoff caused by over- tare coastal lagoons in the bay cities of Las Pinas and free trip to Socorro or the Sea of where else, so be sure to down- grazing and over-abundance of Paranaque as Metro Manila’s bird sanctuaries and Cortez. Ten cards with the Atomic load it now from www.solmarv. feral animals such as goats for eco-tourism areas. “A minimum of 15 per cent of the Aquatics logo wins you an Atomic com/xraymag Living on Earth, a weekly environ- Manila Bay’s reclamation site must be set aside for the Aquatics B2 regulator. Runners up mental news and information pro- wildlife habitats. Reclamation must be done in a way can also win an Atomic Aquatics Good luck and see you on gram distributed by Public Radio that would help restore shellfish and fish productivity Vision mask or SplitFins. board the Solmar V! ■ International. ■ in Metro Manila’s [endangered] coastal areas,” said Arroyo. ■

21 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Tight Luggage Beautiful Oceans Offers First Dive Vacations Regulations Cause Lots of Problems in Britain That Address Global Warming British Airways set a new high in luggage displacement last year after the implementation of new Setting a new standard From air travel and diving pensate for these emissions by international standards set British rules forcing passengers for sustainable ecotour- activities, the dive carbon cal- funding carbon offest projects by the Kyoto Agreement. As to check-in a larger proportion culator determines the carbon on behalf of each guest. The a result, guests can be as- of their possessions. According ism, Beautiful Oceans emission costs incurred by va- projects funded are shown to sured that they are enjoying a to American newspapers, New Partnership Announced offers the first dive va- cationing guests. What Beauti- verifiably reduce greenhouse much more climate-friendly, British Airways lost more bags at Aggressor Fleet cations and eco-cours- ful Oceans then does is com- gas emissions according to and thus ocean-friendly, dive that any other major airlines es that address global vacation. in 2006—among 24 European VIA DIVENEWSWIRE CEO and founder of airlines. British Air Transport cus- warming. Beautiful Oceans, Stephan tomer relations has stated that Wayne Hasson and Wayne Brown from Becker says, “Carbon emis- 23 peices of luggage per 1000 new partnership to build on Aggressor A progressive eco-dive tour sions generated through travellers did not make it to the Fleet’s industry leadership. operator and premiere coral the burning of fossil fuels destination with the passanger. On April 20, 2007, Wayne Brown and reef education organization, are largely responsible for The average in the industry is 16. Wayne Hasson formed a new partner- Beautiful Oceans, announced the increase of greenhouse Globally, 5.6 million pieces of ship and took 100 percent ownership of that it will offset carbon emis- gases in our atmosphere. luggage were lost or delayed. Aggressor Fleet, www.aggressor.com. sions of all its customer flights The resulting worldwide British airports are the only ones Brown was so impressed with the trips and dives, thereby addressing temperature increase rep- in Europe permitting only one he took with the Aggressor Fleet, that the impact of global warming resents a major threat to carry-on item, including laptop he decided to make it a more “inti- from the eco-dive vacations it all ecosystems in the world, computers. This has led to a 25 mate” relationship. offers. including coral reefs. For percent increase in checked-in Aggressor Fleet, the world’s larg- A first in the dive travel an eco-dive tour operator luggage. ■ est fleet of franchised live-aboards, industry, this groundbreaking and coral reef education GLOBAL WARMING ART has dive yachts in Belize, Cayman maneuver was made possible organization like Beautiful Islands, Costa Rica, Fiji (two Yachts), by an initiative of Sustainable Oceans, it is imperative No cell phones please Galapagos (two Yachts), Hawaii, Travel International (STI) called that we ensure that the A survey among 4,000 English Maldives (two by 2008), North Sulawesi, the carbon calculator, which carbon emissions generat- business travellers by the credit , Turks & Caicos and , was adapted for the diving ed during our dive trips will card company Barclay card Honduras. industry by Ocean Frontiers in Anomalies of the Earth’s mean surface temperature during the period 1995 not contribute to the further shows that 59 percent of them Between Brown’s commitment to Grand Cayman. to 2004 with respect to the average temperatures from 1940 to 1980 loss of coral reefs.” are opposed to permitting use great customer service and Hasson’s SOURCE: SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL INTERNATIONAL ■ of cell phones on aircraft. ■ long leadership tenure in the dive industry, there could not be a better blending of talent. The beneficiary of Join DivePhotoGuide’s Expedition Itinerary Tortoises that can live over 150 years, South American gem. Volcanoes, the new partnership is the customer. Expedition: Galapagos 2008 This seven-day expedition will begin the endemic Marine Iguanas found colorful rural markets and a colonial The new partners will ensure that eve- in by flying into San Cristobal. The pri- nowhere else on earth, Blue Footed city are among some of your options ryone enjoys the wonderful experience Prepare for a life changing div- mary objective is to dive the sites with Boobies, and other rare and excit- of land based additions before or Aggressor has to offer from the reserva- ing experience. We will cruise the the highest of the dra- ing wildlife. However, the focus of the after your Galapagos adventure. tion team, to the diving, to the superior Galapagos on the M/V Galapagos Eco matic marine life that is the Galapagos expedition is diving the northern most DivePhotoGuide will post the supple- accommodations and enthusiasm from Explorer I, the newest and most luxuri- Islands—Sea Lions, Whale Sharks, islands of Wolf and Darwin, home to a mental land based add-ons within the the ship’s crew. ous live-aboard boat in the Galapagos. Hammerheads, Dolphins, Turtles, Manta plethora of marine life that can boggle next few months. The Aggressor corporate headquar- Enjoy a little luxury with your adventure. Rays, schooling fish by the thousands, one’s mind. ters is located in Augusta, Georgia. ■ The cabins are more spacious than and more. During the week are stops Reserving Your Spot most live-aboards and of course have for at least three land excursions on Trip Extensions If you intend on joining them on this www.aggressor.com all the amenities—air conditioning and various islands, including a stop at the Trip add-ons include individually exciting once in a lifetime adventure, private bathrooms. infamous Darwin Station. You will have guided trips to mainland Ecuador they need to get your deposit in soon. What more can you ask for? a chance to see the giant Galapagos to explore the native culture of this www.divephotoguide.com

22 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Protecting Tioman Marine Life news In order to protect and preserve Technology and Innovation Minister. marine life in Tioman, artificial reefs There were others including state were built around Soyal Island by the Culture, Arts, Tourism and Heritage Edited by Regent of Pahang Tengku Abdullah Committee chairman Datuk Maznah Peter Symes sutan Ahmad Shah and some 130 Mazlan, Tioman assemblyman Md divers. Rusli Ismail, Bukit Ibam assemblyman In September 2003, the Tengky Mohd Sahfri Abdul Aziz, Rompin dis- to have better Mahkota had deliberated upon trict officer Roslan Harun and Tioman facilities the project with the first dive near Development Authority general man- the Berjay Tioman Beach Resort on ager Datuk Hashim Mat Tahir who The dilapidated facilities on Renggis Island. were on board several accompanying Sipadan Island will be replaced Around 50 reef balls were laid down boats to witness the dive from a dis- once the building plans are on the seabed for corals to grow by a tance. approved. Acting Tourism, Culture total of 270 divers participating in the Several hours later, divers emerged and Environment Minister Datuk event setting two Malaysian records. from the depths after completing Masidi Manjun said that the exist- (see Malaysian Divers Break Local their task to shots fired in the air in cel- ing buildings would be used by Records, this page). ebration. Following the event, locals divers and to house the 33 secu- One of the objectives of the event and foreign tourists gathered with rity people and park personnel was to gather local and foreign divers Tengku Abdullah for a feast and enter- until the new buildings were com- together in a sporting event to promot tainment by traditional dancers in pleted, likely by year’s end. The another dive site in Tioman to follow Kampung Salang. project has been delayed as the up on the 2003 programme. MyReef Foundation was also building plan is subject to approv- Seven clusters of “fish house” con- launched by the crown prince to al by various committees in the structed of polyethylene and PVC help raise awareness, education and federal government as well the were laid in the seabed by the divers research as well as raise funding for state cabinet, he said. this year, which created a new habiti- nature and marine life conservation “It’s unfair to blame the state at for a variety of fish, corals and other efforts. Tengku Abdullah urged the government. What is important marine life. state to do more to promote Tioman now is to get rid of the bureau- Other notables who participat- and other local attractions to foreign cratic red tape and focus on get- ed in the dive were Tengku Datuk tourists while emphasizing the need to ting it done,” Masidi told AP. ■ Kamarulzaman Stultan Abu Baker, maintain efforts to step up “sustaina- project chairman, and Datuk Seri ble tourism” for the long term ecologi- Dr Jamaluddin Jarjeis—Science, cal health of the region. ■ Malaysian Divers Break Local Records Sweden and Malyasia get new airlines Fly Excellent is Sweden’s new airline and Firefly is ’s new low price On April 27, 270 divers in airline. Swedish Fly Excellent is waiting on its last permits, the Air Operator Malaysia descended on a Certificate and Operativa Licens. They have two McDonnell Douglas 83 patchy area of sand off Soyak (MD83) airplanes with space for 165 passagers for special charter flights Island to help lay 50 reef balls on available for booking in the fall. Malaysian Firefy has two propellor-driven the seabed for corals to grow. In Fokker 50 airplanes, which will serve destinations that Malaysian Airlines can- addition to installing the artificial not feasibly cover. These include routes from Penang to Langkawi, Kota reefs, the divers also broke two Bahru, Kuantan and , plus Penang to Thailand’s islands, records in the Malaysia Book of Phuket and Koh Samui. ■ Records: “The largest formation of scuba divers underwater”; Dinner in Paradise: Sunny Bermuda just a hop from UK and “The largest deployment of With their daily afternoon flights from London Gatwick, British Airways’ new artificial reef balls underwater.” summer schedule to Bermuda can get you there in time for dinner. Who knew Malaysia had its own Enjoy beautiful beaches, friendly locals and relaxing pastimes on the Book of Records? ■ lovely island of Bermuda, surrounded by idyllic pink sands and a clear blue ocean. ■

23 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea Southern Egypt to Sudan

The Red Sea

MAGNUS LUNDGREN

24 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 PETER SYMES EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea Text by Peter Symes Photos by Peter Symes and Magnus Lundren There is something special about it, the Red Sea, that I have not found anywhere else on the planet. Granted every destination has its own, but here there is this special ambi- ence of timeless mystique, of remoteness and rugged adventure that just hangs thick in the atmosphere with a whiff of historical greatness and millenias past, topped up with a scent of spices and a distant smell of charcoal from a campfire, or perhaps a sisha—a waterpipe. Once you get past the sprawling resorts that now send their sprout- ing tubers and seeds out along the barren coastline—yes, they do market this place aggressively as the “Red Sea Riviera”—you suddenly find yourself in a land where time just seems to cease to exist. The sun wan- ders across the sky, so does the moon, but what day is it? Out in the desert, who cares? Who is there to care anyway, save for a few scattered Bedouins?

MAGNUS LUNDGREN

Despite its relative proximity to Europe and the ever increasing convenience and affordability of cheap direct flights, once you head out of the resort areas, you can still wander off and turn around the next corner, or anchor behind the next reef and see no other people or boats in the horizon—nothing but dry and magnificient wilderness. This goes both for what is above and below the surface, but what a contrast. Above the surface, it is dry, reddish and scorched by the merciless sun under which only mad dogs and Englishmen stray during the height of the day; every other sensible creature is hid- ing. Below the surface, it is like a garden of Eden, rich in vibrant colour and teeming with energetic life.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Squat lobster; Egyptian sisha; Squid. PREVIOUS PAGE: Egyptian hieroglyphs. INSET: Diver explores Lahami cave. PETER SYMES NEXT PAGE: Diver explores a wreck at Brothers Island

MAGNUS LUNDGREN 25 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea

26 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 PETER SYMES EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea

MAGNUS LUNDGREN

LEFT TO RIGHT: Dugong face with underwater photographer lurking in the background; Closeup of a goby on soft coral

Sitting on the deck of a Red Sea after a good Ohoy! There’s a wreck down there... day’s diving, enjoying a pensive moment of après-diving One morning, as we were enjoying a lazy breakfast while and a cool drink as glowing red sun sets over the Egyptian anchored at a reef enroute on a live-aboard to Brothers’ desert, is the epitomy of escapism. Pondering who wan- Islands, we heard cries from the water. Startled, we got to dered those mountains in biblical times or during the reign our feet to see what all the commotion was all about fear- of the pharaohs blend in and out of reflections on the day’s ing that someone was in trouble, since an early bird buddy experiences down in the blue realm. What day it is soon team had gone out before breakfast (certainly not me, as I ceases to have any meaning. Email and SMS is far away, need my infusions of hot coffee first). and the daily cycles just break down into a rhythm of diving “There’s a wreck down there—come, come!” Within one and dining in no particular order. gulp of coffee everything else about breakfast was instantly forgotten, and we were in our dive gear quicker than Clark MAGNUS LUNDGREN 27 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea

PETER SYMES

Kent could change into Superman. rounding landscape being a desert. there were only a couple of small fish- Getting into the water could only go Until quite recently, looking back ing villages here and a few ports. The too slow. Still covered in breadcrumbs past only a few decades during which place was empty, pretty much, until from brunch, I jumped in the clear resorts started to dot the coastline, divers started coming in the sixties and blue water and immediately caught a glimpse of a whitish wooden hull in the distance. It was another that sank recently—a fact that only very fleetingly managed to bother me before a primal urge to explore got the upper hand. This is the Red Sea in a nutshell. You never quite know what you might bump into, and there are still so many undiscovered nooks and crannies along the extended coastline that anyone can be some kind of explorer in these parts. The beauty and fairly good health of the Red Sea reefs stem from its vast expanse and relative absence of human infrastructure along its extended coastline, thanks to the sur-

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Divers explore the mast gun of the Thistlegorm wreck; Excursion on camel-back to a Beduin camp for music and feasting; Diver and Green sea turtle with remora attached

NEXT PAGE: Decorative interior of a mosque PETER SYMES MAGNUS LUNDGREN 28 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea

The Red Sea

PETER SYMES 29 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea

MAGNUS LUNDGREN MAGNUS LUNDGREN LEFT TO RIGHT: Portrait of a Hawkfish; Hunting Moray Eel; Diver explores internal caverns of the Aida wreck at Brothers Island

seventies. This particular ratio of wilderness to human mation from a sleepy village with a dirt road to a resort infrastructure is still quite favourable if we, for arguments dotted community that Sharm el Sheikh underwent 15 sake, ignore the immediate vicinity of the big resort years earlier. Down here, you still have shore diving in the towns of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, which have old style, which is one thing you can’t do up in Sharm now grown to a considerable size—each with a number anymore (and one reason that I won’t head for Sharm of hotel beds well into the six figures. But even here, el Sheikh again). In contrast, you can still dive your pre- considering the massive load of tourists and divers in the ferred time, have a breakfast in your own time before rig- area, the reefs even close to the towns appear to be in ging your gear and simply wade out to enjoy the nearby a decent condition. I was actually pretty impressed to house reef. I like this style of diving and holiday making see a healthy garden of fragile and sensitive gorgonians simply because it is so relaxing, and that is what I usually at Ras Umm Sidd, just outside Sharm el Sheikh. need. But who knows how long it will last. The develop- ments seem to happen fast and the frontier just gets “Deep South” pushed southwards by the day. It is in the south that the frontier of development lies But it is the live-aboards that are the crème de la today. In the past few years, places like Marsa Alam crème down here. Ever more luxurious and spacious have apparently started undergoing the same transfor- yachts take discerning divers on one or two-week long

PETER SYMES 30 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel The Red Sea PETER SYMES

MAGNUS LUNDGREN

winding itineraries in and out of archi- pelagos and reef structures. In the deep south of the Red Sea, we find many of the great renowned reefs including St. John, Deadelus, Elphinstone and the Zabargad islands. You find some of the best diving in the word here. Surely, there are more small critters and biodiversity in the Far East; that is no secret. But the corals of the deep south—especially the gorgonians—are lush and colourful, and there is an amaz- ing amount of fish life. And if you are on good vessels with all the amenities you can ask for, lip service and great food, then life can hardly get any better.

Often you can get as many dives as you MAGNUS LUNDGREN like and your Nitrogen loading permitting but what’s the point of diving yourself to LEFT TO RIGHT: Profile of the Sphinx with one of the great pyramids behind it; exhaustion? You can work your self hag- White tipped shark diving; Feeding Squat lobster; Cloud of Anthias display the gard back in the office. ■ bounty of the coral reefs

MAGNUS LUNDGREN 31 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Placenames are Text by Arnold Weisz hyperlinked to Edited by Gunild Symes Google Maps

Thistlegorm Ras Muhammad Hurghada —A RESOURCE CENTER FOR ANCIENT EGYPT Port Safaga M Salem Express The Red Sea Quesir Parted by Moses... Bridged by Islam KINGTUTONE.CO Erythra Thalassa—Red Sea, as history including the development of ships bearing clothing, copper and Marsa Shagra directly translated from the trade routes by the Phoenicians, as far cooking pots left the ports at el-Quseir Marsa Alam back as the 12th century B.C., when and Berenice and came back with ancient Greek name—is what extensive routes up and down the elephants, ebony, spices and gems. it was called by the ancient coasts were established as well as a In the Medieval Age frrom the 13th to Romans as well. Long has this base at what is now the port city of the 16th centuries, Mamluk merchants great body of water been Jiddah, Saudi Arabia. Later, ancient brought Iranian and Chinese ceramics to el-Quseir via the Red Sea, which vir- a focal point of trade in the tually became an Ottoman after Middle East, which has stood the Turks took Cairo in 1517. as a crossroads between By the 15th century, Europe began Europe, Asia and Africa for to show interest in the region. The first European chart of the Red Sea was many thousands of years. drawn in 1760 by Carsten Niebuhr The Red Sea, today, is still an on a scientific expedition sent by important vehicle of global Frederick V of Denmark to explore Egypt and Arabia. Port Sudan trade as well as a major tourist During World War I and II, the Red destination for millions. Sea saw its fare share of the fighting. The Ottoman Empire controlled large The Red Sea has acquired world-wide parts of the Red Sea coast during the interest in more recent times from the first world war—from the Bay of Aqaba allure of its underwater wonders. Yet, if to Aden on the east side and on the we go back a long way to the time of west side, the Egyptian and northern The Exodus, we find the Sudanese coastlines. Arabs had breif Red Sea a birthplace control over the territories around of legends like that of the Red Sea during the Arab Revolt Moses, who is said of 1916, from which rose the fame of to have parted Moses Smashing the Tables of the Law a certain Captain T.E. Lawrence, or the Red Sea by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn as Lawrence of Arabia as he is more to lead the commonly known, when he staged Israelites to Roman ships, laden with cargoes an attack against the port city of safety from of treasure such as gold bound, for Aqaba. By the end of World War I, the the pur- Indian cities, visited ancient Egyptian Red Sea was controlled in practice by suit of the Red Sea ports such as Berenice. Britain, France and Italy. Pharoah’s The Red Sea continued to be an In World War II, Italy entered the war army. important trade route from the 7th cen- against the Allies in 1940. Italian Along its tury AD when untold numbers of boats became a potential threat to British shores, the and dhows—traditional Arab sailing supply routes in the Red Sea and the Red Sea has vessels—carried merchants and mus- Suez Canal. Britain had troops in Egypt seen much lim pilgrims to Mecca. In those days, and Sudan. Italy had troups in Libya,

NASA KINGTUTONE.COM —A RESOURCE CENTER FOR ANCIENT EGYPT 32 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Dive Point Anz-XRay 23.05.2007 12:42 Uhr Seite 1

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K travel The Red Sea LEFT: Sea turtle and two remoras going for a ride. BELOW: Whitetip shark patrols the waters of the Red Sea

Eritrea and Somalia. The conflict in the Sudan in 1950 and made the motion the Red Sea. came Red Sea left some great wrecks for picture, Under theProbedruck Red Sea. The film pre- to the area in the 1950’s when Greeks divers to explore later. Well-known ships sented the first images ever taken of a and Italians working for oil and mining such as the Thistlegorm and Umbria whale shark underwater. companies took to skindiving along the were sunk during World War II. In 1951, arrived Hurghada coast. However, the wars One of the most important events to in the Red Sea on the Calypso. His first between Israel and the Arab nations in affect the Red Sea region was the crea- book, , and a film by the the next two decades stopped large- tion of the Suez Canal. Even though a same name, was researched while div- scale tourism to the Red Sea region. canal had been envisaged since the ing near Port Sudan and on the shallow But, tourism to the area resumed in reign of the Pharaohs, the realization of reefs of the Saudi Arabian coast. 1982 when the last section of the Sinai a canal was not made until 1869 when Soon after Hass and Cousteau was returned to the Egyptians. The late the Suez Canal was first opened. The revealed the fantastic underwater won- 80s saw a building-boom at the Red Suez Canal reinforced the role of the ders of the Red Sea with their books Sea, and resorts like Sharm el Sheik and Red Sea as a trade route and “Passage and films, the first leisure divers arrived at Hughada sprung up. ■ to India” for European travellers. In 1967, the canal was closed as a result of the Arab-Israeli conflict. The Six Day War culminated in the closure of the Suez Canal from 1967 to 1975. However, the canal was reopened in 1975 and enlarged. It was Austrian who, in the 1950s, discovered that the Red MAGNUS LUNDGREN Sea was an amazing div- ing destination. Within the THE RED SEA – OR THE SEA OF REEDS This mistranslation, or whatever you same decade, Jacques- Did Moses cross the Red Sea? like to call it, which was introduced in Yves Cousteau also tout- The biblical event where, in the Exodus, the King James’ version of the Bible, ed the underwater won- Moses crossed the Red Sea with the has led to much debate and confusion. ders of the Red Sea. Israelites has always been difficult to Although there are still many different In 1949, Hans Hass set explain without using the help of a hypotheses about the route actually off alone for Port Sudan. miracle. However, the designation ’Red taken, one thing is sure – due to this mis- Over a period of two Sea’ appears nowhere in the Hebrew translation most of the suggestions put months of solitary diving, text of the Bible. The Hebraic term yam forward have been nonsense. using underwater cam- suph is used which means sea of reeds. The actual location of this ‘Sea of era housings he designed The word yam means any large body Reeds’, plainly not the Red Sea, is the and built himself, Hass of water, be it fresh or salty, while sulph subject of much discussion even today. took over 1,500 photo- means reeds or rushes, as used, for For an interesting discussion of this topic graphs of the underwater example, in the account of Moses in the see www.crivoice.org/yamsuph.html. ■ realm of the Red Sea. He bullrushes. returned again to Port

MAGNUS LUNDGREN

33 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED MysteriesText by Barb Roy. Photos by Barbof Roy, Egypt Magnus Lundgren and Peter Symes ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY BARB ROY LEFT TO RIGHT: A hot air balloon floats along the Nile in the early morning; Merchant drives a donkey through the streats of Cairo; Khan El Khalili bazaar in Cairo; Nubian felucca guide in Aswan

The sun was just greeting the day as I I gazed upon the beauty of an early ates were afraid that I would become corner of Africa, between Libya and around the world, Egypt’s history is hurried to the top deck of our cruise boat morning colorful terrain. Was the Nile a Caucasian target and my dive and Saudi Arabia. The Sinai is to its north- slowly being uncovered. To date, used to trade with other communities? photography gear was sure to get east, Sudan is just below, with the over 62 tombs have been discovered with a steaming hot cup of coffee in one Did they travel with their gold and stolen! I am happy to say, their worries Mediterranean Sea along its northern and archeologists have compiled a hand and a camera in the other. I was jewels and attendants? Two hot-air did not detour me in the least. By in- shore and the Red sea bordering its treasure of over 120,000 objects for alone, enjoying the splender of another balloons in the distance broke my con- vesting some time on the Internet, my eastern shore. Egypt’s history was first the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities Egyptian morning. Wispy veils of fog centration as their pilots stoked their research proved Egypt to be a wealth recorded around 4000 BC when no- in Cairo (established in 1902). Among fires to gain altitude. Several local fish- of cultural and historic knowledge, well madic hunters settled in the Nile Val- the objects displayed in 107 halls are danced across the Nile’s glassy surface, ing boats pushed off from shore and worth a visit indeed. Actually there ley. In 3100 BC Egypt crowned its first actual mummies, statues of past roy- slowly dissipating as the sun’s rays envel- it seemed within minutes the morning was little to no risk involving security, Pharaoh – Menes, who unified Egypt’s alty and the most prized – a collection oped the distant mountains and country- had come to life once again on the because I would be traveling with a two regions. The development of soci- of King Tutankhamen’s burial items, side. As I sipped my cup of java, I won- Nile. group of other journalists, all desiring to ety, law and religion soon followed. including his golden sarcophagus. After hearing about the unrest and experience Egypt’s wonders as I did. Today, historians are still debat- Over the years Egypt has built mod- dered how many of Egypt’s nobility had turmoil in the Middle East I almost There was even another diver along, ing whether Egypt’s history doesn’t ern skyscrapers and leaped head once come this way. canceled my trip to Egypt, a place I who I later talked into joining me for date back even further, perhaps 8 or first into the computer age, but oc- have always wanted to visit and dive some Red Sea diving! 10 thousand years BC. With the help casionally one can still see small stone in the Red Sea. My friends and associ- Egypt is located in the northeastern of missions and archeologists from huts and women washing clothes in

34 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel

ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY BARB ROY

Queen Hatshepsut Temple. INSET: Bust of King Akhenaten at the Cairo museum

the Nile. Donkey pulled carts sur- Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, boasted rounded by cars and trucks in the to be the largest bazaar in the cities, still hint of an old and new Middle East, where we found a era trying to coexist. The countries selection of fine fabrics, clothing, government is called the Arab Re- souvenirs, jewelry and excellent public of Egypt, with a democratic local cuisine. I was able to find a society and an elected president. reputable jeweler recommended by our guide, to custom make a The Journey cartouche (pendant) made of It was December when I visited, fine silver for each of my three during the mildest time of the daughters back home. I had their year (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit) name printed on one side and with little to no wind and not too the Egyptian hieroglyphic symbols many tourists. From New York I flew for their name on the other. It was to Amsterdam, then to Egypt’s very stylish and well received. capitol city of Cairo. During the The 4500 year-old Pyramids on day the city is packed with au- the Giza Plateau (9 miles West of tomobiles and constant honking Cairo) were next on our tour, built because there are very few traffic as burial chambers for the Phar- told each of the huge structural lights and only a few stop signs! aohs. I’ll have to admit I felt a bit blocks used to build the pyramids, Needless to say, we took a taxi or like Indiana Jones climbing up and weighed an impressive 2.5 tons hired a car and driver for transpor- down makeshift ladders, through each! tation while in Cairo. narrow passageways and crawl- To the east was the legendary After a visit to the Museum in ing at times to reach the various Sphinx, guardian to the Pharaohs, Cairo, we were able to tour the pyramid chambers. We were representing power and wisdom.

35 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel Egypt

I noticed at most of the Pyramids, with restaurants, novelty shops, fresh protected areas. There is an area of Nitrox were available for an additional temples and other antiquities, armed food stands and great coffee shops. the Elba Mountain and Abrak and the fee. A night dive tempted us, but we guards stood watch from camels and We were mainly surrounded by other coastal islands with mangroves. Shay- were expected back at the resort for a at all attraction entrances. tourists, mostly European, but friendly eb Al-Banat is another protected area Bedouin style dinner with the group. The sight of camels intrigued sev- nevertheless. If I didn’t know better, I southwest of Hurghada city. There are eral of us to opt for a camel trail ride. I would swear I was in Bonaire or anoth- many more too, where you can find guess this is one of those things we like er Caribbean dive hot spot! wildlife.” to do – just once in our lives. We soon Although all but two of us were to We thanked discovered these creatures had very spend the day touring temples and our knowl- individual personalities, and can be monuments, I was looking forward edgeable driv- extremely moody. Fortunately, I had to getting wet! We booked a day of er and bid him an apple to share with mine, which diving with one of the many day-boat farewell as we gained me the lead of the heard, at dive charter operators servicing the went to board least for a while! I found out quickly it’s Sharm area. On the way to the depar- the dive boat. no fun being behind other camels. ture dock our driver explained that the Most boats Red Sea runs from the Gulf of the Suez leave around Sharm El Sheikh down to the Gulf of Aden. He also said 8-8:30am, The day finally came when the group it was the mineral-rich red mountain and return at was flown to Sharm El Sheikh, locat- range that gave the ancient mariners 4-5pm, serv- ed at the southern tip of Sinai. I was the idea to call it Mare Rostrum or the ing lunch amazed to see very modern seaside commonly known today as - The Red and snacks luxury hotels and resorts, all with big Sea. between two swimming pools and beautiful land- “But our beaches are almost white,” dives. Tanks

ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY BARB ROY scaped decor. Even our hotel, the Four he explains. “At different times of the and Seasons Resort, came with a prop- year you can see migrating birds along belts are sup- CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Camel gurard; Egyptian temple; erty directional map for navigation. the shore; bird watchers really love plied, although Nile boats; Cairo mosque; Camels catch a ride in a chevy The town was equally as nice, filled it. We even have National Parks and rentals and HARVEY PAGE

36 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel Egypt

PETER SYMES

The Red Sea is abundant with soft coral (left) and marine life such as the lionfish (right) PETER SYMES Diving All of this info was wonderful and Our boat was wide and roomy, with helped prepare us for our first dive, over 20 divers and room for more. After only 45 minutes from where we depart- the briefing I grabbed the ed. Our divemaster also noted that to inquire about what the Red Sea has most of the day boats all find great to offer visiting divers. sites within an hour run from Sharm. He seemed pleased to elaborate, Water temperature was warm as “Most of the operators who take divers we entered off the back of the boat, out, don’t allow the taking of any ma- maybe 27 degrees Celsius (82 Fahren- rine life or shells, or touching or spear heit). All I wore was a shorty . To fishing. In Ras Mohammed National keep things simple for my underwater Park you can not even wear gloves! photography, I used a wide angle lens There are over six good sites in the park so whole scenes could easily be cap- alone, but we must leave even earlier tured. The water was no deeper than than today to get there.” 18 meters (60 feet) and the visibility When asked what kind of marine life must have been over 30 meters (100 lives in the Red Sea, he replied; “Just feet)! I did notice the water was quite about everything you see in other parts a bit saltier and I needed more weight of the world lives here. We have giant on my belt, compared to a Caribbean mantas, whale sharks, dolphins, big destination. Perhaps with all of this sharks and other pelagics, turtles and heat, evaporation over the years has beautiful soft corals, the Dendronephy- caused the Red Sea to have a higher ta species. You can see lionfish, pol- saline content. yclad colorful flatworms, clownfish, With camera in hand I began to triggerfish, butterfly fish and the grace- photograph one tall coral head after ful blue-spotted stingray. And if you are another, each covered with a dress- lucky, maybe even a cuttlefish – of the ing of soft coral and tiny reef fish. With Sepia species.” over twenty divers in the water, I was PETER SYMES

37 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED LEFT TO RIGHT: Steep wall at Brothers Island Top view of coral garden travel BOTTOM: Crocodiilefish Egypt

Our diving time in tolerated! Sharm turned out to If you decide to do a little trek- be loads of fun. Most king on your own in the Sinai, it is of the reefs ranged advisable to stick to well-known from 10-800 meters, trails or tracks, and only explore with the latter being beaches recommended ‘safe’ by a drop-off wall full of the locals. Unfortunately Sinai may color and life fading still hide live land mines, left over into the abyss. When from previous wars, so caution venturing into deeper would be advised. water, there is always a possibility of strong Egyptians currents, also felt at During my journey through Egypt I some shallower sites. found the Egyptian people to be Quite a few critters extremely friendly and very help- choose mid August ful in every way. Most of the local to begin mating, so people active in tourism, speak care should be taken. English, Spanish, French, German I counted over 81 dive and Italian, besides their native PETER SYMES sites in the Red Sea, so tongue. On many occasions, the exploration oppor- residents in Luxor, Cairo, Aswan a merchant vessel 126 “I can think of fourteen good tunities are endless. For and Sharm el-Sheikh (South Sinai) meters long (413 feet) dives between Ras Nasrani in the a wider range of diving and area would come up to me and just in 30 meters (98 feet) north, to Ras Katy in the south.” coverage, try a liveaboard dive start chatting. Our whole group of water near the Suez It wsn’t until the second dive boat. After talking with the local was invited to smoke a Sheesha Canal, sinking in 1941. that I noticed all of the lionfish divers, most believe fall through water pipe sweetened with apple You can see trucks, (also called turkeyfish) hiding un- spring is exceptional for diving in juice in Aswan during our Nile Rive motorbikes, parts of der the coral head ledges. Unlike the Red Sea, but a few prefer July cruise. We were also treated to a WWII plane parts and the brave frilly looking ones we and August, if the heat can be sailboat ride in a felucca (boat) more. The Dunraven are used to see- is a British steamer, 80 ing in aquariums, meters (252 feet) long, these were quite found on the Southern reserved and shy. side of Beacon Rock in The few morays 30 meters (98 feet) of of a formidable water. It went down in size, with cool gray

PETER SYMES 1876 and is now up- eyes, were also side down! There are spotted. I really four more wrecks at enjoyed just going surprised to rarely see anyone nasty disposition. The underwater Saab Abu Nuhas and more to the into deeper water except my buddy. A few snor- sounds were like any other tropi- south.” and looking back kelers glided overhead, often cal reef and the water a bit cool- Several other divers also on- on the beautiful following the divers. On a sandy er at depth. Life was everywhere board had joined us by now, reef, brightened patch between fingering small I looked including critters hiding in listening intently as he continued; by a ballet of rays reefs, I spotted a crocodile fish! the sand. “There are four nice dive sites in from the sun. It It looked prehistoric and oddly During lunch the divemaster the Straits of Tiran to the north and was like watching cute with its long snout and sharp continued with his talk to us about six popular sites within Ras Mo- a virtual underwa- little teeth. It was only about a the various places within the Red hammed, one of my favourites.” ter scene playing 30-5 cm (12 inches) long, but I Sea to dive; “We have many When asked about the dives on a computer kept my distance, in case it had a shipwrecks too. The Thistlegorm is accessible from shore, he replied; screen! PETER SYMES 38 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED travel Egypt

on our Nile journey. Egypt doesn’t toler- popular mosques. at home provides even more peace of gernail. Real marble won’t scratch! ate terrorism, which was very evident As with traveling to any international mind. Bring plenty of sunscreen, shades, a from the additional security measures country, a little knowledge will go a long valid passport, a windbreaker to wear at the airports, hotels and to protect the way in making any trip as smooth and in- Travel Hints after boat dives, your certification card, antiquities. cident-free as possible. The State Depart- The National currency is the Egyptian an electrical adapter or converter (220V For a city of over twelve million, Cai- ment’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has an Pound (LE), but US cash, Travelers Checks AC, 50 Hz) and plenty of film or memory ro’s crime rate was almost non-existent. excellent website for visitors from Ameri- and major credit cards are accepted. cards and batteries. By making a list of I did gather, with the conservative na- ca, accessible at; http://travel.state.gov/ Many businesses and banks are usually the serial numbers of the computers, dive ture of Middle Easterners, concerning to learn more about Egypt’s local health closed on Fridays. Gratuity or Bakshish and photography gear you are traveling women and sex, females can avoid conditions, entry requirements, politi- should be awarded based upon serv- with, you may avoid problems concern- verbal harassment by simply covering cal stability, as well as any current travel ice, but generally around ten percent ing ownership with Customs upon enter- more skin. I didn’t notice this attitude at warnings. If you are concerned with the will work. Be sure to get receipts for all ing and exiting the country. Drink only the resorts in Sharm, as most visitors are safety aspect of a country, travelers can purchases, and if the items are antiques, bottled water, and take along a supply PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY BARB ROY European. I would recommend women also register a detailed itinerary with the be sure to get an official museum export of Imodium in case the Pharaohs Curse INSET: Traditional musicians perfrom at Luxor LEFT to bring or buy a lightweight scarf to use U.S. Embassy or Consulate in that coun- tag. Hint: the marble statues make great catches up with you. Remember, a little TO RIGHT: Traveler enjoys a Sheesha pipe; Temple when needed. The scarf also will come try before you go. Leaving the same gifts—you can tell if they are authentic research goes along way… ■ of Horus; Women washing on the Nile; The great in handy when touring some of the more detailed itinerary with a friend or relative by scratching the bottom with your fin- pyramids dwarf visitors

39 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED West SYRIA Mediterranean Sea Bank Damietta Port Gaza Dead Alexandria Said Strip Sea Marsá Maţrūh Tanţa Suez IS. Shubrā Canal al Khayman JORDAN Cattara Suez Depression Al Jīzah CAIRO SINAI fact file Al Fayyūm Sīwah Egypt Mount SAUDI initiated economic reforms storm called khamsin Catherine Al Minyā ARABIA and massive investments in occurs in springtime; dust Al communications and physi- storms, sandstorms; fre- Ghardaquah Sharm ash cal infrastructure in an effort quent earthquakes, flash World map and map of Egypt Shaykh LIBYA Asyūţ to ready the economy for the floods, landslides Nile Būr SOURCE: WWW.CIA.GOV new millennium. Government: ter Ahmed Nazif. There was Safājah Red Republic. Legal system: Based Environmental issues a stock market boom, and Al Khārljah Sea History One of the world’s guage and religion through- on English common law, Desertification—agricultural GDP grew by about 5 per- Luxor great civilizations was born out the region over the next Islamic law and Napoleonic land is being lost to wind- cent for the next two years. on the banks of the Nile. Due six centuries. Around the year codes. Capital: Cairo blown sands and urbaniza- Unfortunately, living standards Aswān to the richness and regularity 1250, a local military caste, tion. Soil salination below the remain the same for the aver- of the annual flooding of the the Mamluks, took control. Geography Egypt oc- Aswan High Dam is increasing. age Egyptian despite these Lake Nile River as well as the semi- They continued to govern the cupies the northeast corner Oil pollution is threatening achievements, compelling Nasser isolation of the valley created country after the Ottoman of the African continent. It coral reefs, beaches and ma- the government to continue Hafā’ib by the surrounding deserts, Turks conquered Egypt in borders the Mediterranean rine habitats. Additional water to provide subsidies for basic Triangle the rise of a unified kingdom 1517. In 1869, the Suez Canal Sea—between Libya and the pollution comes from agri- necessities. These subsidies around 3200 B.C. brought a was completed and Egypt Gaza Strip—and the Red Sea cultural pesticides, raw sew- have helped increase a grow- SUDAN series of dynasties into power became an important center north of Sudan, and includes age and industrial effluents. ing budget deficit continue in Egypt for the next three for world trade. However, the Asian Sinai Peninsula. There are very limited natural to be a significant drain on Bedouin and Beja 1%, Greek; Dive Centers millennia. In 341 B.C., the last it also fell heavily into debt. Coastline: 2,450 km. Terrain: fresh water resources away the economy and foreign Armenian and other Euro- Wildcat Liveaboard Charters native dynasty fell to invad- In order to protect its invest- Vast desert plateau is inter- from the Nile River, which direct investment continue pean (primarily Italian and www.redseadiving.com ing Persians who in turn were ments, Great Britain seized rupted by the Nile River valley provides the only perennial to be low, however, export French) 1%. Religions: Muslim Camel Dive Club & Hotel replaced by the Greeks, control of Egyptian govern- and delta. Lowest point: Qat- water source. Rapid popula- sectors—especially natural (mostly Sunni) 90%, Coptic 9%, www.cameldive.com Romans, and Byzantines. It ment in 1882. However, some tara Depression,133 m. High- tion growth is overstraining the gas—show positive prospects. other Christian religions1%. Sinai Divers Diving Centers was the Arabs in the 7th cen- allegiance to the Ottoman est point: Mount Catherine, Nile River and other natural Agriculture: cotton, rice, corn, Internet users: 5 million (2005) www.sinaidivers.com tury who introduced Islam Empire maintained influence 2,629 m. Egypt controls the resources. Egypt is party to the wheat, beans, fruits, vegeta- Red Sea Rangers Diving and spread the in Egypt until 1914. Sinai Peninsula—the only land following international agree- bles, goats, sheep, cattle, Languages Arabic (of- www.redsea-rangers.com Arabic lan- Egypt gained bridge between Africa and ments: Biodiversity, Climate water buffalo. Industries: tex- ficial), English and French is partial inde- the remaining Eastern Hemi- Change, Climate Change- tiles, food processing, tourism, understood by educated Web sites pendence from sphere. Egypt also controls the Kyoto Protocol, Desertifica- chemicals, pharmaceuticals, classes Egyptian Tourist Authority the UK in 1922 Suez Canal—a sea link and tion, Endangered Species, hydrocarbons, construction, www.egypt.travel and acquired major trade route between Environmental Modification, cement, metals, light manu- Deco Chambers Egypt Tours & Travel full sovereignty the and Medi- Hazardous Wastes, Law of the factures. Natural resources: Sharm El Sheikh interoz.com following World terranean Sea. Becuase of its Sea, Marine Dumping, petroleum, natural gas, iron Hyperbaric Medical Center Egyptian Museum War II. The time- size and juxtaposition to Israel, Layer Protection, Ship Pollu- ore, phosphates, manganese, (069) 6609223 EMERG Egyptianmuseum.gov.eg honored place of the Egypt plays a major role in tion, Tropical Timber 83, Tropi- limestone, gypsum, talc, as- (012) 2124292 Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Nile River in the agriculture Middle Eastern geopolitics. cal Timber 94, Wetlands. bestos, lead, zinc. Dahab www.fourseasons.com and ecology of Egypt was However, Egypt does con- Deco International Abercrombie & Kent Nile altered by the completion of tinue to depend on upstream Economic In the last three Currency Egyptian Emergency (012) 1653806 Cruises www.abercrom- the Aswan High Dam in 1971 neighbors and deal with the decades, the Egyptian gov- pound (EGP). Exchange rate: Hurghada biekent.com and the resultant Lake Nasser. dominance of Nile basin is- ernment has reformed the 1EUR=7.69EGP, 1USD=5.69EGP, El-Gouna Hospital Even so, dependence on the sues. The country is also prone highly centralized economy 1GBP=11.25EGP, (O65) 5800118 Books Nile continues, and with a to influxes of refugees. handed down from President 1AUD=4.69EGP, EMERGENCY (012) 2187550 Imaging Egypt by Mark rapidly growing population— Nasser. Energy subsidies, and 1SGD=3.73SGD Naval Hospital Hurghada Millmore www.eyelid.co.uk the Arab world’s largest—and Climate Desert—hot, dry personal and corporate tax (065) 3544195 Egypt and Diving and limited arable land, resources summers with moderate win- rates were reduced, and Population 80,335,036 Marsa Alam Snorkeling the Red Sea and society continue to be ters. Natural : periodic several enterprises were priva- (July 2007 est.). Ethnic groups: Marsa Shagra (065) 443156 published by Lonely Planet stressed. The government has droughts; a hot, driving wind- tized in 2005 by Prime Minis- Egyptian 98%; Berber, Nubian, www.lonelyplanet.com ■ PETER SYMES 40 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED KURT AMSLER’S PHOTO-WORKSHOPS Diving the Red Sea IN FRANCE 2007 Text by Arnold Weisz Sustainable tourism or environmental disaster? In co-operation with Dive Centre in Les Lecques on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, we have the There is no doubt that the Red from the tourism business. families in their home cities and towns. best prerequisites for learning all the Sea offers some of the best div- Hotel complexes are springing up From their point of view, dive tourism is different techniques quickly and suc- almost unchallanged all along the feeding their families. cessfully in a pleasant atmosphere. The ing on the planet. Additionally, Egyptian Red Sea coast. Along the workshops are open to analogue and the Red Sea is easily access- coastline of Egypt, from the Suez canal Increased awareness digital photographers! able for European divers, which to the Sudanese border, huge armadas The coral reefs of the the Red Sea are makes it one of the most popu- of dive vessels are bringing hordes of generally in good shape with rich, bio- For the theoretical lessons, we have a divers to the coral reefs. diverse reefs the rule. However, coastal classroom and a photolab at our hotel, lar dive travel destinations in development continues to destroy man- with light boxes, projector, beamer and the world. Diving has become a Tourism—highway to wealth groves, and damage from coral reef all the necessary hardware and soft- booming branch of the tourism It’s almost stunning to see the enormous tourism is on the rise, especially in the ware for digital photographers. business. armada of dive charter boats at the Red Sea’s northern Gulf of Aqaba. ports of Dahab, Sharm The picture is not as bleek as it may We undertake the photo dives with the el Sheikh, Hurghada, seem. Awareness about the environ- H2O—a fast comfortable dive boat. Safaga and Marsa mental damage has risen in the last few The dive spots in this area are outstand- Alam in the morning. years. The local government, dive and ing. The rumbling of marine tourism industries are seeing the effect of diesel engines laying a years of rapidly growing numbers of tour- We dive down the drop-offs of Ile Verte carpet of fumes over ists and have started to take measures to at the light tower; Balise, the cave of the crisp sea air. Loud protect their natural assets. La Vierge; and visit the wreck of the calls in Arabic whiz Several organizations have sprung famous P-38 Fighter, which was discov- through the place, up, and efforts to protect the marine ered by us in the spring of 1997. The sometimes Russian or environment are being put into effect. participants are accommodated at English pierce through Everything from reef rehabilitation, moor- the hotel, La Bastide, surrounded by the hustle and bustle, ing-buoys, waste control and non-con- beautiful countryside, the landscapes as the crews prepare to tact diving practices are reducing the provençal. Guests have the possibility of take out thousands of impact on the environment. booking only the hotel and/or diving. divers. Still, many of the reefs show clearly vis- Everywhere, there able signs of wear and tear. And it’s not My photo-courses are built upon a PETER SYMES are pyramids of airtanks uncommon to encounter plastic bottles learning pyramid, which has been and equipment bags. and other non-biodegradeable waste. approved for over 15 years: “Hear, see The Red Sea was “discovered” as a Convoys of trolleys shuttle between the Many of these problems can be elimi- and do!” diving destination by Hans Hass in the mini-buses and pickups at the parking lot nated by simply changing the indifferent 1950s. Tourism has grown steadily since and the dive boats. attitudes of locals and tourists. Nature Such efficient working conditions are the 1970s and has reached the point Can we really criticise the Egyptians for can recuperate, if you just give it time! ■ possible only here, because the sea lies of becoming an essential part of the taking advantage of dive hungry tour- right in front of our door; the classroom region’s economy. ists? The mighty Nile is the life line, which is just footsteps from your hotel room; However, looking beyond the fantastic feeds most of the country’s 73 million and the number of participants in each coral reefs, awesome wrecks, luxurious inhabitants. The coral reefs of the Red workshop is limited to ten. resorts and sandy beaches, there is a Sea gives thousands of Egyptians jobs downside to the paradise. The reef-lined and supplies the country’s economy with Please study the course programme coasts all along the Red Sea, but espe- much needed hard currency. at the link below. I can guarantee cially in Egypt, depend on high numbers Many of those who make a living in the you that this workshop in the south of of tourist divers, thus resulting in degra- tourist and dive industry come from Cairo France will bring you a giant step for- dation of reefs by mechanical damage, or other large cities along the Nile. They ward. waste and water pollution. Often, this work every day for three weeks, and Reef ball. Illustration —Kurt Amsler is accepted due to the short-term gain then spend a week together with their courtesy of www.reefball.org www.photosub.com

41 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Saudi Arabia Diving the Kingdom

Text and photos by Dan Beecham

In the heart of the Middle East, occupying 80 percent of the eastern shoreline of the Red Sea, sits the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It covers an area of over 870, 000 square miles, almost all of which is desert, which holds more than a quar- ter of the world’s oil reserves. Despite its close proximity to Egypt and Sudan—places that are considered by many people to be some of the world’s greatest diving locations—the reefs around Saudi Arabia have barely been dived.

42 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED adventure Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is infamous for being dif- the Kingdom’s fiercely Muslim character, bounds, count themselves lucky that they ficult, and oftentimes impossible to get returning to 18th century ideals where can enter, explore and dive a part of the into. At the same time, it welcomes with Islam reigned supreme, and where for- world that is generally off limits to western- open arms thousands of expatriate work- eigners were not welcome. Others wish for ers; Saudi Arabia can be considered the ers every year, as well as over 3.5 million change; there is talk of democracy and final frontier of diving in the Middle-East. tourists annually, almost entirely comprised reforms on many issues including women’s of pilgrims performing the Haj or Umrah. If rights, a topic that is especially divisive. The Oil Giant you’re non-Muslim and are not sponsored The modern generation is demanding Sadly, Saudi is not known for it’s diving, by an employer in Saudi, attaining a visit change, and it is slowly happening; west- there’s only one thing its famous for; Oil. visa is nigh on impossible. ern commercialism is increasingly imping- work, go out in public unescorted and not The 8.5 million barrels of crude that It’s this strict level of control, as well as ing upon Islamic ideals. being allowed to drive are just a few of are pumped out of Saudi Arabia every the continued threat of terrorist activities Because of these reforms, there is ten- the issues that must be overcome. day ensure that the Kingdom remains that keeps the majority of westerners out sion in the Kingdom, so visiting or living in It is all of these strict rules as well as a driving force in the global economy. of the country. The problems do not stop Saudi presents new challenges everyday. the issues relating to visit visas that either Unfortunately, the oil industry and the there however. Clashes with the authorities including the stop or put people off diving in Saudi. The preservation of pristine marine environ- Saudi Arabia is a country that is strug- religious police, or Mutawwa, are not opportunity to dive untouched, pristine ments do not make good bedfellows. gling to strike a balance between its uncommon. The Mutawwa strictly enforce reefs or discover new wrecks is impossible There are large areas of reef that remain CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Mosque in roots, which are firmly planted in Islamist the many social rules of Islamic culture. in other parts of the Red Sea. Because of untouched, but in other places the envi- Jeddah; Mosque tower; Jeddah street scene; tradition, while its younger generation Women especially must be mindful of the- this, many people (this writer included) ronment is very much neglected; exten- Saudi souk, or traditional market. INSET: Door demands reform to a modern, more west- ses rules, covering themselves head to toe who are given the opportunity to visit a sive damage caused by oil extraction or to women’s prayer chamber in a mosque. ern society. Many Saudi’s want to defend in the traditional Abaya, not being able to country that normally sits so far out of the reclamation of land for refineries has PREVIOUS PAGE: Saudi desert mountains

43 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED adventure Saudi Arabia

wiped out entire ecosystems. In Environmental issues 1991 during the Gulf War, eight bil- Some areas of the Red Sea that lion barrels of oil were released into lie within Saudi waters are thank- the Arabian Gulf on the Saudi’s fully now protected. This is largely Eastern coastline by retreating Iraqi thanks to the work of active marine forces. There are fears in many that conservation groups. National a similar event could one day hap- Parks and “no-go” zones where pen in the Red Sea; the damage fishing is completely prohibited this could cause is unimaginable. have been created. This is often The threat of terrorist attacks enforced, but unfortunately, not remains very real today. Post 9/11, always. In other areas, fishing goes many expatriate workers who completely unchecked, but mainly had called Saudi home for a long consists of local fishermen on small time moved away to neighbour- boats. There is little commercial ing countries in the Middle East, fishing in Saudi as there is simply in response to terror attacks on more money to be made in the oil housing compounds and foreign industry. embassies. Numbers of ex-pats in Shark meat is unfortunately very Saudi Arabia are steadily increas- popular, and small sharks often ing nowadays, and with it, the appear in abundance on the fish diving scene, but once in a while counters in large supermarkets. an event will occur to shake eve- Row upon row of juvenile reef shark rybody’s confidence over safety in and Hammerhead Shark adorn the Kingdom. In February this year, these counters. Even though I see four French tourists were killed near more sharks in Saudi waters than Jeddah, and in April, authorities I have in other parts of the Red arrested more than 150 terrorists, Sea, I regret to say that I see more seizing weapons and bomb-making sharks on the fish counter dur- equipment that was intended for ing my weekly shop than I would one of Saudi’s largest oil refineries. during a whole week of diving. LEFT TO RIGHT: Sunlight spills into the corridor of a mosque; Saudi oil refinery at dawn; Desert scene The shark meat generally sells for

44 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED adventure Saudi Arabia

dreds of tonnes of land-fill, but it’s difficult to have on the local and surrounding ecosystems. comprehend how far-reaching the effects of Spear-fishing is very popular in Saudi, both this construction will be, and what effects the within the local communities and with the increased air and water pollution will have. population of Southeast Asian workers that are Projects such as the iconic Palm Jemeriah in present in Jeddah as well as the rest of the Dubai have disrupted the local ecosystems in country. Unfortunately, this has damaged popu- more ways than was originally predicted, but lations of many species of large reef fish. The thankfully now a lot off effort is being put into reefs further offshore have been less affected by undoing this damage. Only time will tell what this though and remain healthy. effect the King Abdullah Economic City will

around ten Saudi Riyals per kilo—less than three US dollars. Much of the coastline of Arabia is currently undergoing major changes. Reclamation of land for huge offshore projects is very common in the Middle East, and countries including Bahrain, the UAE and Qatar are creating huge offshore hous- ing developments to try and attract overseas investors and strengthen economies. Dredging recently began off the sleepy town of Rabigh, which sits north of Jeddah in preparation for an ambitious building project—the King Abdullah Economic City. This kind of construction will obvi- ously effect the local ecosystems. Infact, most CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT INSET: Hammerhead shark on the butch- of the local ecosystem will be covered in hun- er’s block; Juvenile shark on display in a fish market; Jeddah skyline; Jeddah airport; Store with the local fashion; Ancient Saudi fort 45 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED adventure Saudi Arabia

Jeddah Arabia continues to face a big problem projects. The city of Jeddah is where much of the with illegal immigration from poorer To get to the more impressive sites you diving in Saudi Arabia is focused. Jeddah neighbouring countries, and the coast- need to get offshore. Reefs such as Abu attracts large numbers of expatriate guard’s strict rules are an effort to reduce Faramish, Abu Madafi and Shi’b al Kebir workers attracted to the Kingdom by this problem, as well as curb smuggling provide truly world class diving. In these the big salaries that are often available of illegal contraband. Because of these areas, visibility is often excellent, 20-25m. when working for large Saudi companies. regulations, many Hotel chains have The quality and diversity of soft and hard Jeddah is seen to be more liberal than set-up small dive operations in private corals is very high, and you’ll spot all the cities such as Riyadh, the capital, and beaches. usual Red Sea reef fish alongside some as such, there has long been an expat Here, you pay a nominal entry fee larger specimens that are generally more community present. There are a number to get what can feel like a little piece difficult to see in more commonly dived of dive shops and boat operators that of paradise, away from the strict every areas. cater for this diving scene. day rules of Saudi. Men and women Jeddah port is the busiest port in Saudi, Shore diving is very popular in Saudi, can socialize together, which is normally and as one would expect, a few of the as you often face difficulties with the forbidden, and women can remove ships on their way to or from the port local authorities when planning boat their Abaya without fear of punishments have inevitably ended up on the bottom trips. Permission must be attained ahead from the authorities. Many people shore of the sea. Mismari, the Cable Wreck of time before any private vessel may dive from these private beaches, and and Chicken Wreck are just a few of the head out to sea, and failure to do so the reefs are very healthy, although wrecks that are easily accessible lying in can result in heavy penalties including sometimes the visibility can be poor just 20-30meters of water, so allowing for ABOVE: Descending with spearo; TOP RIGHT: Diver explores the wreck of the Mismarie confiscation of diving permits. Saudi due to sedimentation from construction long leisurely wreck dives.

46 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED adventure Saudi Arabia

Away from the more frequented div- Arabia can enjoy an abundance ing areas, there exists miles of coastline of beautiful reefs, devoid of the that remains largely unexplored by crowds of divers found at many western divers. From personal experi- popular sites in other areas of ence, the diving in these areas can the Red Sea. Maybe one day, differ dramatically. Head south and vis- when things have changed and ibility generally deteriorates, and there relaxed in Saudi Arabia, people are some areas that are completely will be able to visit and appreciate devoid of life. Head north, near to what’s there, not only the diving, Wedjh, and you can drop in on spots but also the historical sites, beauti- where there are huge numbers of reef ful deserts and wildlife. fish and pelagic fish including Tuna, Let’s just hope that the authori- Spanish Mackrel and Barracuda as well ties realise what potential they as healthy numbers of sharks includ- have lying right beneath their ing Hammerheads, Silvertips and Silkys. noses, or beneath the waves, and When you look at the size of the coast- that they must implement meas- line and how little of it has been devel- ures to properly protect the reef diving that is on offer in Saudi Arabia, oped, it’s tantalising to think what wan- and regulate the numbers and move- but in ways it’s nice knowing that ders are waiting to be discovered. ments of divers. there are places out there that remain For now, divers who are lucky enough It’s sad that so few people have untouched, pristine and waiting to be LEFT TO RIGHT: Scene from the Cable wreck; Diver examines a propeller; Interior of the Mismarie to gain access to the Kingdom of Saudi been able to experience the amazing discovered. ■

47 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED LEBANON SYRIA LEFT: Map of Saudi Arabia and global map highlighting region

IRAQ BOTTOM LEFT: Whitetip shark IRAN IS. JORDAN

fact file Tabūk KUWAIT Saudi Arabia Languages Arabic Ra’s al Khafjī Dubā Hā’il Al Jubayl Deco Chambers Buraydah BAHRAIN Ad Dammām Persian Jeddah GNP Hospital Gulf Al Hufūf QATAR Chamber Medina EGYPT (966-2) 682-3200 Yanbu’al SOURCE: WWW.CIA.GOV RIYADH U.A.E. Riyadh King Faisal Specialist Bahr Hospital & Research Centre alignment History Islam was born in Saudi Arabia, ism. King Abdallah has Jiddah Mecca approximate placed on major economic activities. Hold- (966-1) 4647272 pager 8517 which is home to two of Islam’s holiest continued the cau- ing 25 percent of the world’s proven pe- Jubail Armed forces hospital KANB shrines in Mecca and Medina. In fact, the tious reform program, Aţ Ţā’if troleum reserves, the country ranks as the official title of the king is the Custodian of which was started largest exporter of petroleum and serves Warning to travelers Jabal the Two Holy Mosques. In 1932, the modern earlier when he was Red Sawdā’ OMAN as a leading power in OPEC. The petro- Check your travel advisory for updates Saudi state was founded by Abd al-Aziz crown prince. In 2005, SUDAN Sea leum sector makes up roughly 75 percent on travel to Saudi Arabia. Due to attacks bin Abd al-Rahman Al Saud (Ibn Saud) the government held Jīzān of budget revenues, 90 percent of export targeting foreigners in recent years, many after a three decade campaign to unify elections nationwide earnings and 45 percent of GDP. The travel advisories are recommending that most of the Arabian Peninsula. Today, his for half the members of ERITREA YEMEN private sector makes up about 40 percent foreigners avoid or leave Saudi Arabia son, Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz, rules the 179 municipal councils Arabian of GDP. About 5.5 million foreign workers unless on essential business. According to Sea country according to the country’s Basic in order to promote ETHIOPIA contribute to the Saudi economy, particu- security departments, more attacks on for- Law of 1992. In 1990, Saudi Arabia accept- an increase in political larly in the service and oil sectors. After high eigners are being planned. If you must stay ed the Kuwaiti royal family and 400,000 participation. King Abdallah completed of Yemen. Coastline: 2,640 km. Terrain: oil revenues led to large budget surpluses, in the country, it is recommended that you refugees after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. The the process at the end of the year by Sandy desert—mostly uninhabited. Lowest Riyadh substantially boosted spending on avoid public places where foreigners are country also allowed Western and Arab appointing the remainder of the members point: Persian Gulf 0 m. Highest point: Jabal infrastructure development, job training known to congregate and to make sure troops to deploy on its soil for the liberation of the advisory municipal councils. Saudi Sawda’ 3,133 m. Saudi Arabia’s extensive and education and government salaries. your hotel has a good reputation for main- of Kuwait in 1991. After the liberation of Arabia remains a leading producer of oil coastlines along the Persian Gulf and the A plan to establish six “economic cities” in taining high security precautions. Kuwait, the continuing presence of foreign and natural gas. Located within its borders Red Sea give the country a lot of leverage different regions of the country to promote troops on Saudi soil was a source of tension is approximately 25 percent of the world’s in the shipping of crude oil and other cargo development and diversification has been Visa information & restrictions between the public and the royal family proven oil reserves. In 2005, Saudi Arabia through Persian Gulf and Suez Canal. announced by the government. Natural Sauid Arabia has proclaimed this year the until all operational US troops left the coun- joined the World Trade Organisation. Since resources: petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, Year of the Daiver. Dive tourism in Saudi try in 2003. In the same year, major ter- then, the Saudi government has promoted Climate Rugged, dry desert with wide gold, copper. Agriculture: wheat, barley, Arabia is still new and in development, but rorist attacks compelled the government foreign investment in the kingdom and extremes in temperature. Natural hazards: tomatoes, melons, dates, citrus, mutton, some operators have pre-approved tourist to initiate a strong continuous campaign continued to pursue economic reform and Frequent dust and sand storms. chickens, eggs, milk. Industries: crude oil visas for Europeans and Americans. These against domestic terrorism and extrem- diversification. On-going concerns include production, petroleum refining, basic pet- visas take 2-3 weeks for processing rather a growing population, Environmental issues Desertification; rochemicals, ammonia, industrial gases, than the usual two months. Please note depetion of aquifers underground water resources are being sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), cement, that destinations in Saudi Arabia report and an economy depleated; the lack of permanent bod- fertilizer, plastics, metals, commercial ship that they cannot accept visa applications primarily dependent ies of water bodies and perennial rivers repair, commercial aircraft repair, construc- from women travelling alone or with their on petroleum out- has led to the development of extensive tion boyfriends. Married women must be ac- put and prices. The seawater desalination facilities; coastal companied by their husbands, and single country is governed pollution from oil spills. Saudi Arabia is party Currency Saudi riyal (SAR). Ex- women must be accompanied by a father according to Islamic to several international agreements includ- change rate: 1EUR=5SAR, 1USD=3.75SAR, or brother. law. Government: ing Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate 1GBP=7.4SAR, 1AUD=3SAR, 1SGD=2.46 Monarchy. Capital: Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Cultural issues & dress code Riyadh Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Population 27,601,038 including Be aware that local custom and law in Geography Saudi Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone 5,576,076 non-nationals (July 2007 est.). Saudi Arabia have specific requirements Arabia is located in Layer Protection, Ship Pollution. Ethnic groups: Arab 90%, Afro-Asian 10%. in public dress and behavior, especially for the Middle East. It bor- Religion: Muslim 100%. Internet users: 3.2 mil- women. Consult your local Saudi embassy ders the Persian Gulf Economic Saudi Arabia’s economy is oil- lion (2006) for more information. ■ and the Red Sea north based with strong governmental controls MAGNUS LUNDGREN 48 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED All perspectives expressed in this section are those of the individu- Letters & al author and do not necessarily reflect the views of X-RAY MAG, SectionOpinions DiveGuru.Net, or their associates What do you think? Get heard! Send us your opinion at [email protected] by May 10, 2007, and get a chance to win a gift certificate for US$30 for a great dive shirt Edited by generously sponsored by Dive Junkie. Millis Keegan www.divejunkie.com.sg Save the Sea Turtles Sounds like a high number; is it valid? and this week, late one evening, a tur- Gary Appelson: Ninety percent of all tle came crawling up on the beach. sea turtle nesting in North America takes She crawled with quite some effort, place in Florida. One hundred percent and at first, we thought she was sick, of all green and leatherback nesting in but then she started digging and laid Our DiveGuru sponsor this issue is Dive North America occurs in Florida. About eggs—about 60 of them. It took hours. Junkie based in Singapore since 2003. 25 percent of all turtle nesting in Florida We watched the whole process from a They are a fast growing specialty retailer occurs in the Archie Carr national distance, careful not to disturb her. It was of stylish scuba clothing and distinctive Wildlife Refuge in Brevard and Indian wonderful, and it brought tears to my casual apparel in unique and interest- KURT AMSLER KURT River Counties on the mid Atlantic eyes. Now, obviously, we want to protect ing styles depicting the attractions of I have received coastline. Loggerhead turtle nesting in the nest. Our first instinct was to mark the scuba diving and the unique experi- some questions regard- the refuge is very intense, and the ref- nest, thinking that beach goers would ences of divers. They plan their col- ing turtle nests, and how we can uge hosts one of the two largest, if not stay clear from the area. Then a neigh- lections with great care and thought. best protect them. One of the questions the largest, aggregation of nesting log- bor told us not to to do that, since that And their range of clothing is constantly mentioned Gary Appelson, who turned I asked him straight up, “Are we the tur- gerheads in the world. would just be like setting up a sign for tur- revitalized with new designs and styles out to be the Policy Coordinator for tles’ worst enemies?” And Duh! Of course But there are turtle nesting beach- tle egg poachers. We feel responsible for on a regular basis in order to keep up the CCC organization. CCC stands for we are. es in many locations in the tropical our nest, and we do not want anything with current themes and fashion trends. Caribbean Conservation Corporation, Atlantic and Pacific. The largest green to happen to the turtles. How can we The Dive Junkie aesthetic is about con- which most likely is the oldest sea turtle Gary Appelson: Sea turtles have been turtle nesting population in the world help? necting the unique experiences of div- conservation organization in the world. around and were doing just fine for is adjacent to our research station in —Molly, previously a snowbird, ers with artistic designs, combining ele- So, I figured, who better, you know? millions of years, until people arrived. Tortuguero, Costa Rica. CCC is credited bird now retired in Florida ments of comfort with great styling, and I contacted him. People are definitely their worst enemy!! with saving this nesting population from versatility with fashion and colour. They Adult sea turtles have almost no preda- extinction—a great conservation suc- (Editors note: The term Snowbird is used are also committed to giving divers tors except sharks, which rarely actu- cess story!! to describe people who spend a large superior products, and place a great ally kill a sea turtle. Many predators eat portion of the winter in Florida or any emphasis on the quality and durability hatchlings, but the predation is simply Millis: So, not quite 80 percent of all other warm place in the sun belt region.) of their products capturing the diver’s overwhelmed by the shear number of the turtles in the world then, but the adventurous spirit, revelry and fun-lov- hatchlings that actually make it to the numbers are still impressive. Impressive Gary Appelson: It is illegal under Florida ing nature. Dive Junkie apparel is avail- water. That is why turtles nest multiple enough to name Florida the Capital law and the Federal Endangered Species able in a wide range of sizes sold in times each year and lay so many eggs; Turtle State in the US, we think. Act to harm, harass, kill or disturb marine Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Korea, it’s nature’s insurance against predation. turtles or their hatchlings. It is also illegal U.A.E, Australia, , U.K., Questions to disturb the nest in any way. While resi- and the United States through Millis: I found some numbers that say that Q: How does one protect a turtle nest? dents and tourists often feel compelled retail stores. Online store T-shirts have Florida is the number one place for turtles to help hatchings get to the water, it sold to customers in , China, to nest—that 80 percent of the sea turtles Something wonderful has happened! is illegal to do so. If residents want to Japan, , France, Spain, Belgium, in the world actually make it over here. We own a beach property in Florida, ensure that a nest is adequately pro- , and Gibraltar. ■

49 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED How You Can Help: tected, they need to contact an authorized “sea turtle permit BIO for Gary Appelson Adopt A Sea Turtle! holder.” Marking a nest may actually put future hatchlings Gary Appelson graduated from Sea turtles have navigated at increased risk. Female adult college with a BA in Political the earth’s oceans for more turtles do a very good job of Science with a specialty in than 100 million years. In the disguising their nests. In Florida, Environmental Policy. He has last half century, scientists only individuals trained and per- a masters degree in Wildlife have learned a great deal mitted by the state are authorized Ecology and Conservation from about their habits, but many to directly interact with marine the University of Florida. He joined mysteries remain. Join CCC turtles or their nests. Authorized the Gainesville-based Caribbean and its Sea Turtle Survival permit holders, either volunteers Conservation Corporation as its League today! or local government staff, monitor Policy Coordinator in 1999. all nesting beaches in Florida. You Appelson is currently involved in Adoption Options can contact local government Answer: All over I also would like to know what I all aspects of sea turtle conserva- environmental officials to report a the world people eat turtle can do, and since I know I prob- tion and policy and is a registered Satellite-Tracked Turtle nest. meat and turtle eggs. Turtle eggs ably wont have time to do what- lobbyist in Florida. He monitors Several named turtles The best way to help protect are considered a delicacy and, ever you suggest, tell me where the laws and regulations impact- with satellite transmitters turtles and their nests is to follow most importantly, as an aphrodis- to send money to help the cause! ing coastal policies, the coastal attached to the back of all the guidelines for limiting your iac by many cultures. Those cul- —Buying a concious-Johnny, environment and sea turtles. their shells are monitored by impacts. These guidelines can be tures are represented in Florida, Tampa. Appelson watchdogs the state’s the Caribbean Conservation viewed on the Florida Fish and and consequently, there are peo- regulatory program for coastal Corporation. This allows CCC Wildlife Conservation Commission ple that place a high value on Answer: To answer your second construction, beach nourishment, to use space age technol- website at http://myfwc.com/ turtle eggs even in the US. In the question, yes, you can be directly coastal armoring and other activi- ogy to learn more about the seaturtle. You can also support a US, mainly in Florida, there is an involved in sea turtle conserva- ties impacting the beach, dune turtles migratory behavior. sea turtle conservation organiza- illegal black market for sea turtle tion by buying a Florida Sea Turtle and near shore environments. Adopt a satellite-tagged tion such as the Caribbean con- eggs. Specialty License Plate (www. CCC is currently in the forefront turtle and track the turtle’s servation Corporation/Sea Turtle helpingseaturtles.org), joining a of the debate calling for coastal movements through their Survival League, www.cccturtle. Question: Gary Appelson, sea turtle conservation group management policy reform and website! You can find out org. advocacy coordinator of the like the Caribbean Conservation increased protection of coastal which satellite turtles are Caribbean Conservation Cor- Corporation (www.cccturtle.org, and near shore resources in available for adoption by Question: How come there is a poration said—I think I read it in phone-352-373-6441), or by sim- Florida. In 2005, Appelson served checking the current list of market for turtle eggs? What do the papers—that poachers poke ply just donating money to a sea on the Coastal High Study Satellite Tracked Turtles For they want the eggs for that an a wooden stick or fishing pole into turtle conservation group. All the Committee, a 19-member gover- “Adoption”. chicken egg can´t provide? Is It the sand, and if the pole comes money generated from the sale nor-appointed committee to look true that the going rate for a tur- out sticky with yolk, it’s a fresh nest of the sea turtle specialty license at the need for coastal policy Name Your Own Turtle tle egg is 50 cents a piece? and ready for harvest. I think you plates goes directly to sea tur- reform with an emphasis on bal- Adopt one of the severak That’s awful! should do something about this, tle conservation in Florida! See ancing coastal development with turtles CCC researchers tag let people know what’s going on. Tracked Turtles For “Adoption”. ■ resource protection. Appelson on the hot sandy beaches filled the only environmental of their Costa Rican research position on the committee. He station. With a Name Your currently serves on the steering Own Turtle Adoption, you committee of the newly formed will be the only person to Oceans and Coastal Alliance. adopt your turtle, and you The alliance is a group of national can choose the name of the and Florida-based conservation turtle. If CCC sees your turtle organizations focusing on coastal again, they will notify you via and marine resource protection newsletter. ■ issues. ■

50 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED THE FACTS AND VIEWPOINTS IN THIS SECTION ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS OF X-RAY MAG. EQUIPMENT PRESENTED IN THIS SECTION HAVE NOT BEEN TESTED BY X-RAY MAG STAFF, NOR ARE THE ITEMS WARRANTEED. INFORMATION PROVIDED IS CONDENSED FROM MANUFACTURERS’ DESCRIPTIONS. TEXTS ARE USUALLY EDITED Color-coded dive FOR LENGTH, CLARITY AND STYLE. LINKS ARE ACTIVE AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION This friendly , XR-Nx from Aeris POINT & CLICK has both Air and Nitrox modes, display ON BOLD LINKS oversized digits for easy reading, and is designed with color-coded bar graphs for easy reference while diving. When you reach a Heaven sent safety stop, the display Edited by changes to a count Millis Keegan down display. Hot & Peter Symes Swat compartment makes for an easy battery change. Equipment www.diveaeris.com

Roll the Bag This padded roller dive bag comes with a regulator bag. Made out of sturdy material, reinforced box- stitching and corrosion- resistant locking slides and A Warm Data directly pulls, this bag might last you a lifetime. Lots of grab points Experience in your mask makes handling it easy. The DataMask HUD from Oceanic, with the air- www.akona.com No need to be warm- integrated dive computer built directly into the blooded with this suit mask has so far only been available for the military. that keeps you warm Soon, it will be released to the public. With the dig- with a panel heated ital optic system, you can clearly see the informa- with batteries. The heat tion you need, but still be able to focus on the dive, can be turned on and and it does not matter if viz is bad. off when needed, and www.oceanicworldwide.com it takes only minutes to heat you up. Evolved ride www.thermalution.com You wanna zip from here to there? You wanna zoom without effort? The new AV2 Evolution has evolved to gold-plated contacts, so Seac Sub you will be traveling in style. But there is a reason for that Dry tech extravaganza, and it is definitely worth it. This 5.5 mm drysuits 5.5 Gold is probably is anatomically cut for the best conduc- comfort and comes tor of electricity with large pockets, a and will not cor- sturdy sole boot and rode. For the price, protection for the you also get an alu- knees. The valves are minium box to trans- reliable SI-TECH design. port the hot scooter www.seacsub.it after use. www.diveapollo.com

50 X-RAY MAG : 18 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Scout the area A magic underwater eye allows you to scout the area before a dive. Or if you like to fish, check your hunting ground. While some anglers use Aqua-Vu systems to help them immedi- ately catch more fish, others simply enjoy the excitement of White being able to see and learn what’s below the surface of a favorite lake. However you define “viewing” fun, the fins with continuing cutting-edge refinements make Aqua-Vu the most potently effective, easy-to-use under- spring strap water viewing systems available. www.naturevisioninc.com/aquavu Fit for a wedding, do be this pair of white colored fins. The Bio-fin Pro is made out of 100 percent rubber and promises to reduce muscle fatigue, energy use and air consump- tion. Just what a bride needs. They Field of vision come in black for the groom. The Favola is a compact mask, www.apollosportsusa.com Finest fit with a small internal volume and Tailored fit... finest degree at shoulders waist and.. a wide field of vision, looking up, Sounds like a fitting for a tux now, doesn’t it? But looking straight ahead and even the stabilizing cradle, which eliminates tank roll looking down. Check the pat- and can hold up to four tanks, tells another story. ented “double joint” buckles. With Chest straps are positioned to fit both men and the silicone skirt, the mask adapts to women. www.apvalves.com most any head. www.technisub.com

Bob the hybrid Feel like a manta ray as you glide over the ocean floor. The SeaBob is a cross between a jet-ski and a bodyboard, a nice little toy Wet/Dry for some fun in the ocean. Surf and leap Mesh Gear Bag and through waves, or take a deep breath Backpack with dry and dip down to explore under the and wet compart- surface when feeling like it. You ments all in one. steer yourself along the ocean floor Drain-hole grommets by moving your bodyweight and in the bottom using your legs. www.seabob.com helps excess water run off. www.armorbags.

51 X-RAY MAG : 18 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED The Zeagle Minireview: Surface Marker

combination by Peter Symes A combined regulator and inflator keeps the check-in weight down when traveling. Still, performance has to be top priority, and the manufacturer promises easy breathing at all depths within lim- its. www.zeagle.com

Use your ocean eyes With the inverted drop lenses, you get a great downward vision. But the real treat is the easy quick release lense system, that allows you No more excuses to change to prescription lenses in a few No reel needed moments, by yourself. www.cressi-sub.it Surface Marker Bouys or Safety Sausages are among the most underrated pieces of equipment. Get the Yet, they constitute such cheap potential lifesavers that it’s beyond me why they haven’t longe since been made booty a mandatory part of the standard kit. Would you not wear a seatbelt in a car? Enter, this lightweight SMB from AKUMAL is a nice little SurfaceMarker, and you are out of excuses. It comes in boot with a rugged sole a handy pouch, which is easy to toss into the dive bag that creates a good grip and carry in a BCD pocket. Deploying a Surface Marker on slippery slopes. Bouy isn’t exactly rocket science—just get it inflated—yet www.cressi-sub.it some have to struggle with it. Despair not. The new two- tone buoy from SurfaceMarker presents an new way to deploy your safety sausage using a “Webbing Deployment System” (WDS). It is a total no-brainer, and you don’t need a reel. The WDS consists of a 5.5m long and 2cm wide red and white webbing with a large Revamped stainless steel ring at one end and a V-16 snap hook at the other. Hook it onto Not cylinders, but the Vortex V-16 can the bouy, slip the ring over the thumb provide speed. The maker promises skin as shown on this drawing, inflate the that it is up to 30 percent faster and The Otter Skin MK2 has been bouy and, hey presto, it deploys at the more efficient than conventional fins. revamped for 2007, which A snap & its done surface. Any problems—and you just The design and the use of four mate- means that among other things, The Eagle goggles bring clarity back to the let the ring slide off your finger. rial compounds makes the fin light it now comes standard with a swim also for those that needs glasses. The The bouy is 145 cm tall. While the webbing cord allows weight and helps to optimize power double back zip, heavy duty optic lenses are individually available in for good support during a safety stop, the manufacturer and reduce drag. latex seals and double knees half-step increments from -1.5 to -6.0. stresses that this in not a deco bouy. Later models will be. ■ www.oceanicworldwide.com pads. www.drysuits.co.uk www.aquasphereswim.com

52 X-RAY MAG : 18 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Warm & cozy ������������������������������������� A 3-layer undersuit, with an outer wind- proof shell and a nice polar fleece lining will keep the diver warm and cosy on the inside. A zipped key pocket keeps your car keys in place during the dive. www. LomoWa- tersport. com

Hand Challenger Immersion watches are inspired held by Italian designs and the brand is Bright light leads the a part of the Geco Watch Company. way, and size does They are famous for their distinct style not matter too much and high technology. with the Kowalski Mini Xenon. For a compact hand held diving lamp, this little light provides a great shine. Charges externally, because a lamp that always remains closed will not leak easily. www.taucherlampen.de

�������������

��������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� �������� ����� ������� ���� ���� �������� ���������� ������������������������������������������� No mystery ����������� ����������� ��������� �������� Despite the name, there is no mys- ���� ������� ��������� ����� ���� ������� tery with the good field of vision of ��������������� ����� ����� ������ ��������� ����� ��� ������ the Mistique Single Lens, just a good ������������������������������������������� design. This is a low volume mask, ��������������������������� ����� ������� ����� ��������� ��� ���� ����� that has a double sealed skirt. ���� ���� ��������� ������ ���� �������� ���� ����������������������������������������� www.deepseeinc.com �������������������������� ����������

53 X-RAY MAG : 18 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED whales & dolphins Scientists enlist narwhals to collect deep-sea data For years, scientists have been trying to “They basically collect data all the way collect deep-sea data in the ocean north down on their and on the way of Greenland where warm, salty water back,” is moving north and cold, fresh water is Over each 24-hour period, a single moving south. The mixing of these ele- narwhal diving in the Davis Strait—which Edited by ments is of particular interest because it connects Baffin Bay in the north to the Peter & Gunild Symes helps regulate the weather in northern Labrador Sea in the south—transmits about Europe. Since some data suggest there 410 depth-temperature readings from has been a warming and freshening of depths ranging between one and 1800 water in the area, scientists are eager meters. ■ NOAA Beluga Whales Facing Extinction

The isolated population of “There are few places in the beluga whales of Cook Inlet world like Anchorage where a spe- in Alaska should be listed as cies of whale is as visible, enthral- endangered. Only about 300 ling and accessible as the Cook individuals remain—a 75 percent Inlet beluga,” said Mike Frank, drop from 1,300 animals esti- attorney for Trustees for Alaska, to learn what this means for the climate mated only three decades ago. which represented a dozen conser- models that policymakers are using to Sperm whale caught red-flippered Biologists concluded the whales vation groups who have petitioned determine how the world should respond have a one in four chance of to get the whales protected. “We to global warming. Video footage shows sperm whale pilfering fish from fishing line going extinct within 100 years, need to do all we can to make But the reseachers have been deterred according to an official status sure that continues in the future.” by harsh weather in the region. Now they Alaskan Fishermen have complained and sci- fish. The whale moved with surprising grace review released in December. The proposal will undergo a year- have found deep-diving oceanographers entists have known for at least two decades and deliberateness, gently plucking the line Beluga whales are small, long review with public comment willing to do their work for them: narwhals that sperm whales were snatching small like a guitar string, said Jan Straley, an assist- toothed whales that are gray before written into law, modified or whose wintering territory is near the north- numbers of fish from miles of longline. ant professor at the University of when born and white as adults. rejected by the agency. Previous ern Labrador Sea. Although scientists Now there’s proof. It has been caught on Alaska Southeast. ■ According to the fisheries serv- attempts to list the whales have have measured ocean temperatures dur- video. ice, they are extremely social landed in the Alaska Supreme ing the region’s two warmest months of A 45-second video begins with the and found in groups of between Court. This time, the issue will trig- the year, no one has gauged the water signature rapid-fire clicks of a sperm ten and several hundred. Alaska ger emotional arguments about in winter. The scientists hope to attach whale before the animal, most has five distinct populations. whether human activity near satellite tags to as many as ten narwhals likely a male, swims into view Anchorage, Alaska’s over the course of a year. The tags have and clamps down gently on US Fisheries service largest city, has time, depth and temperature recorders a longline. Seconds later, damaged a unique that will allow researchers to track whale a black cod pops off a proposes endangered whale population movements and diving behaviour as well nearby hook. The whale listing for Beluga isolated from its as ocean temperatures in Baffin Bay. releases the line and species since the Narwhals dive more than a mile below floats out of sight, fol- whales of Alaska’s end of the ice the ocean’s surface. lowed by the dead Cook Inlet age. ■ NOAA

54 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED whales & PETER SYMES dolphins

Some Bottlenose Dolphins Can’t Coerce Humpback Whales Boast the Females to Florida Manatees About to Lose Mate Their ‘Endangered’ Status Longest Mammal Migration The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recom- manatees are no longer facing extinction Each winter, humpback whales travel Using satellite data, researchers mended downlisting the manatee’s in all or a significant portion of its range,’’ all the way from the Antarctic to the at Cascadia Research Collective in status from endangered to threatened, Dave Hankla, field supervisor for the Fish northern tropics to find warm water in Olympia, Washington, US, also recorded a move that indicates the animal has and Wildlife Service’s Jacksonville office, which to raise their young. This migra- sea-surface temperatures for the sites In a rebounded from the brink of extinction. said in a statement. This year’s annual tion is the longest for any mammal where humpbacks spent the winter. popula- Following a five-year review of mana- manatee census recorded 2,812 animals ever recorded. Some researchers Wintering areas occur where waters with tion of bot- tee populations in Florida and Puerto in Florida. In 1991, the survey’s first year, claim that the grey whale holds the temperatures between 21°C and 28°C tlenose dol- Rico, the Fish and Wildlife service has 1,267 manatees were counted. ”This is an record for longest mammalian migra- are found. This supports the idea that the phins in Fiordland, found that the species no longer fits the opportunity for all of our manatee partners tion—from Mexico to the Arctic—esti- long migration saves the whales energy New Zealand, criteria to be deemed endangered. to celebrate a conservation success mile- mated at about 7600 km. However, in the end. males seem to prefer Federal endangered status means stone.’’ no individual grey whale has been But the whales and other migratory the company of males an animal is at immediate risk of extinc- Patrick Rose, executive director of the documented travelling the full extent creatures are suffering from global warm- over females. Rather tion. Threatened status means a spe- Save the Manatee Club disagrees. He said of their migratory range, and it’s pos- ing that puts them in the wrong place than trying to coerce cies could become endangered in the a classification switch could mean chang- sible that no grey whales actually at the wrong time. A warmer climate females into mat- future if protections are not maintained. es in boating and development restrictions make the entire migration. disrupts the biological clocks of migratory ing, males form alliances and coali- The manatee remains protected under that were established to protect mana- On the other hand, one humpback species including dolphins and turtles, tions with complex social relationships. the federal Endangered Species Act, tees. ”This is not the time to be mov- mother and calf have now said Lahcen el Kabiri, deputy head of Usually, coalition formation will be driven making it illegal to harass, poach or kill ing to say that they’re going to be been recorded to have the U.N.’s Bonn-based Convention on by short-term gains for the helper (for the animals. in the state. downlisting the manatees and then made a 8300-kilo- Migratory Species. example access to females). But there “Based on the science it is clear that dilute the protection for them.” ■ metre trip in 161 Many creatures are mistiming their does not appear to be any short-term days. migrations, or failing to bother as chang- benefits in coalition and alliance forma- es between seasons become less clear. tion in this population. Instead, one male The shifts make them vulnerable to heat- band seems to spend much more time waves, droughts or cold snaps. ■ with sexually receptive females and females with new calves than others. This may explain the complex relation- ships we observe in male bottlenose dolphins, which are only paralleled by human social strategies: the formation of alliances and alliances of alliances, also called coalitions. These alliances and coalitions are then used to out-compete FRITZ GELLER-GRIMM other male bands to access females. ■ SOURCE: D. LUSSEAU (2007) PLOS ONE 2(4)

55 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED focus

Text by Millis Keegan

ALL PRODUCT Diagram of how the Oceanic Suction IMAGES AND ACTION DIAGRAMS ARE Force 2 split fin design forms a direct- COURTESY OF THE ed vortex providing forward thrust MANUFACTURERS Fins WOLFGANG LEANDER

Wikipedia Quote: A fin is a surface used to produce lift and thrust or to steer while traveling in water, Fins provide a great way to get bad or good experience. However, it is Fin Formula air, or other fluid media. from point A to point B in an H O easy to get confused. Fin designs have Begin with clarifying which kind of diving 2 evolved over the years. Long fins, short you would normally be doing. Also, con- The environment. In fact, with few fins, split fins, twisted fins, stiff sider the level of your physical fitness in Mount exceptions, it is the only way fins, soft fins... this context. Then, start looking for a fin. Everest to get around with ease Today, there are choices that respond to Diver while diving. How to choose? different needs. It’s a good thing. At the The Mount We keep telling you to end, the fins need to be comfortable, Everest Diver is do your research, but and they need to perform. a diver look- The good news is, there are more looking at specfications ing to move styles and models to choose from in isolation will most So, who are you? effectively than ever before. By the same token, likely just add to your Will you be mostly diving in a way and effortless the bad news is, there are more styles confusion. To figure where you need to cover long distanc- through water, and models to choose from than ever out what the right fit es and rough water during your dives? while covering long distances stiffness built in. How much stiffness before. for you is, you need Will you be fighting current and waves on during his dives. He does not like to take depends on how fit you are, but As a diver you are limited by your a step-by-step a regular basis? Is it more important for the easy road, the tougher conditions you will need a fin that can transport you strength and stamina. This is when approach that you to be able to maneuver with ease the better. With a compass in hand, he and your dive equipment through the design of the fin really can work will narrow down under water? Or, are you one of those plots the course to the dive site from the the water resistance without tir- for you. If you are an able-bodied, the options with that just likes to cruise along and enjoy shore. Then, he endures the long surface ing you. strong person, you will have little a process of the view? or under water swim to the site with a problem with whatever fin you hap- elimination. smile on his face—at least, with the right The Spear Fisher pen to wear. A good blade design fins, he does. The Spear Fish Diver will merely fine tune your perfor- You need a good pair of fins that can needs maneuver- mance. But if you know your stamina push water effectively and ability as well as the is low, and it has been some time since move you forward without tiring option to move effectively you visited a gym, choosing the right fin you. You need a large blade through water. In fact, can make all the difference between a with some he needs to go from 0-

57 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED A traditional focus paddle fin with meaning that the diver’s effort was not stiff blade— being fully utilized. ’ channels worked simple, durable to maximize fluid stream channeling, keep- ing the water under the fin in place, so that it can be displaced during the down stroke. This increase in water displace- ment allowed for greater thrust levels and improved overall performance. The addition of channels or grooves 60 in a split second in order to land that made the effort and energy expended by APOLLO catch. the diver more valuable—more thrust was generated with each stroke. But this advan- High The Ocean Diver side of blade ce in technology did not solve the energy The Ocean Diver is a diver who knows inefficiency of the kick cycle upstroke. that any second of the dive, the current Illustration of the split fin principle. The can pick up. He needs blade opens up, creating both a push- Split fins a fin that can fight the ing vortex directed away from the diver Split fins are considered one of the most current and violent wave and lift on the inside of the blade efficient hydro-dynamic fin designs. action on a regular basis. However, that does not necessarily make it a closer look at something, but the main and fin shape the best overall fin. The Cocktail Diver objective of his time in the water is to critical to getting the right spring force for In the split fin, as the name indicates, the The Cocktail Diver is a observe from above. optimal efficiency. blade is split, which causes a kind of pro- diver that just likes to The snorkeler does not have the peller movement. Using traditional fin kicks cruise along and advantage of using the fin while Fin Types causes a suction and creates a lift, which enjoy the view. He immersed. He might favor a more flex- allows the diver to move with less effort is typically found in ible, light weight fin to handle the occa- Paddle fins compared to using a paddle fin. tropical water, and cares noth- sional “air” flip in an effective way. The traditional paddle fin is a really sim- Water flowing towards the center of ing about efficiency and speed. He lives ple design, a flat blade with a mounted the fin’s ”paddle” portion also gains in the moment, knowing that the dive Gone are the days when the rubber fin foot pocket. The material of the blade increased speed as it focuses, boat will pick him up when he runs out of ruled the world. And for all you rubber fin is made out of stiff plastic, composite or creating a ”scooping” or air or time—whatever comes first. fans out there, don’t get offended. That rubber. The design of the fin generates channeling effect. is still a good design, but maybe not for quite a bit of resistance during the kick Split fins are generally The Explorer everyone. cycle and requires rather good leg mus- regarded as among The Exploration Diver is a diver on a mis- cle strength for effective strokes. Because the most efficient sion. They can be photographers, wreck The Physics of Fins of this, the paddle fins are sometimes fin designs, and/or cave divers, and the one thing When diving, you need a flexible fin of considered to be not so efficient. although they all have in common is that there is a moderate length. When you push down A more developed paddle fin can there is purpose to their dive. They need full con- on the fin when kicking, you bend it, and come with a water vent through the trol of every movement during the dive, it is largely the spring-back force from blade, opening backwards on the under- not to stir up silt or scare the wild life. the fin as it straightens that propels you side and forwards on the upper side, They have to be able to maneuver with forward. This makes the material choice blowing a jet of water backwards out ease. A consciencious tropical diver who of the fin as the fin flexes. Others have needs to move carefully around to convoluted channels and grooves, in an protect the reef might fall under effort to improve efficiency. this category, too. You need a In 1985, Mares developed a new shorter, more flexible fin than the feature for water fins called channels. average, which still has the Traditional paddle fins suffered from APS Mantaray’s capacity to move you for- water ”spilling” off of the edge during the Dual Water ward with ease. down stroke of the diver’s kick. This loss Channeling of water translated into a loss of thrust, System and side The Snorkeler DIVE TEK wings function as a The snorkeler hangs mostly on Mares Quattro with the character- combined unit to give the surface. Occasionally, he istic rubber strips that makes the fin the fin its ultimate stabil- takes a plunge to take flare creating the channelling effect ity and performance

58 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Force Fin in a nutshell. is also said that you can back Made in one piece, focus up with Force Fins. Also, for div- blade is split down the middle and with ers who wear neoprene wetsuit upturned fintips boots in colder waters, the nega- tive of the lightweight Force Fin swimming fins uti- Force Fins is not sufficient to coun- lize the body’s strength and ter the positive buoyancy of put it where it’s needed. The their boots, calling for the use human body is built to have of ankle weights. more strength when kicking down (during freestyle), than Freediving fins are far longer when kicking up. The down- and are designed to work with Top-end ward, or power, phase slow stiff-legged kicks that con- of the kick emphasizes freediving and serve energy and oxygen. the powerful quadri- snorkelling fins are now ceps muscle group at Though primarily intended made in advanced the front and side of the for high efficiency at materials such as upper leg. The upward, variable depths, layers of carbon ongo- recovery phase uses they can still fiber and fiberglass ing the weaker hamstrings deliver con- at the back of the thigh troversy are made among with speed swim- divers as to ming in mind their versatility— many report that split fins cannot be used for frog kicks and are poor for maneuver- ability.

Force fins Force fins are in a category of their own. Radically different from all other fins, their now classic model is characterised by hav- Karmo Maasik is owner of thin carbon and 18 layers of fiber- ing a wide upturned blade made of poly- SpecialFins in Estonia specializ- glass. urethane, with a shallow V-shaped cut into ing in high quality swimming fins The Spear Fisher should use the the end. Force Fins were the first to mimick for lifesavers, freedivers, swim- Hybrid Professional made of two the fins seen in nature and also pioneered mers, players layers of hybrid material 50 the split fin. and spearfishers. Twice the world percent Carbon and 50 The fins are characterised by a different champion in , Karmo percent Kevlar, swimming sensation and valued among Maasik custom make all their fins hand laminat- their devoted fans for their high efficiency according to individual needs ed, with and acceleration, while others dislike their and requirements. They are made more maneuvering characteristics. However, it of carbon, Kevlar, fiberglass and than 20 hand-laminated fiberglass, which layers of are vacuum processed in spe- fiberglass.

cial moulds. SpecialFins mission The WWW.SPECIALFINS.COM is to make the world’s best fins Snorkeler for ans challenge, fun and should use the adventure. Freediving Stereofins Karmo Maasik writes: “I recom- Pro.” ■ mend the following fins for these types of divers: The Mount Everest Attaching adjustable whiskers that Diver should use the Freediving channel the thrust enable the wearer to change the charactestics of the fin Stereofins Carbon. They are very to make it fit the type of dive good flexible fins, hand laminated and produced from two layers of

59 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED These fins do not have any straight was filed about ten years ago on John Melius, President of lines anywhere on them, and machines these fins, the road to manufac- Morfin Corporation, writes: do not like constantly changing curves. turing has been difficult because of the hydrodynamic shape of Have you ever wondered how it the fins. These fins do not have would feel to be a fish in water any straight lines anywhere on and wander effortlessly, or to First, you can for handling currents because them, and machines do not like maneuver with speed through make much small- these fins do not try to create constantly changing curves. So, tight areas hardly disturbing the er kicks (like fish) for voids in the water to move. The the road to quality manufacturing environment? Now you have greater control in tighter moving water in the current is an has been a slow, but steady one the opportunity to come closer environments. Mor-Fins do Everest asset to fins with wings. Wings use leading us to today. to this feeling than ever before. not need to create a “void” Diver, moving water and convert it into They are available now, and What you need to have in order in the water to work (the rea- no fins badly needed power in a current. will be available soon in six sizes to do this is the same kind of pro- son that “scuba kicks” are so appear to The Explorer cannot find fins for open heeled fins. So, if you pulsion tools that fish use, which large is to work the void longer) be, or are more that have this much power and are curious to experience how means pelvic and dorsal fins and our fins work in each phase hydrodynami- are smaller. These smaller fins fish swim instead of swimming and a tail fin moving like a fish. of the kick (there is no recov- the cally shaped, maneuver just by moving your like frogs (paddle and split fins), Why do they work? As in ery kick which means that you flow of than each type of toes without your legs moving at check out our web site, www. nature, excellent hydrofoils (wing can swim almost full speed with water direct- Mor-Fins (the all when necessary, but give high- mor-fin.com for a no risk purchase shapes) generate excellent lift only one fin). Second, the tail ly in the center wing shapes are ly efficient movement with any to experience swimming with just like airplane wings. But wings fin gives extra power and speed of the fin pulling extremely evi- type of kicking too. the only winged fins, Mor-Fins. ■ only work when there is a flow to your kick with no extra work. water from the sides of dent). There are The Snorkeler will not find fins over them, and so, an airplane the fin to reduce silting and no ribs to cre- that are more comfortable and EDITOR’S COMMENT: needs a propeller (a rotating set Why? reduce vortices and drag. ate drag, and easier to use with speed coming Publishing Mr Morfin’s letter took a of wings generating flow) just Because it generates power sim- Fourth, the blade and tail fin the efficiency with effort that is less than walking bit of deliberation, since as presi- like the fish needs a relatively flat ply by being in the right place, as work in serial amplification of and ease of use of these fins are on land. Fish propulsion is fast yet dent of a fin-manufacturing com- body and pelvic and dorsal fins water flows over it the same way the flow of water to increase lift remarkable. efficient, powerful yet comfort- pany, Mr. Melius obviously has a to generate flow. Our fins work that an airplane wing generates producing more power with less The Spear Fisher will accel- able, and very maneuverable. vested interest in the subject and exactly that way, unlike paddle power when air flows over it. effort. erate faster and for a longer What other qualities could promoting his fins. However, as we and split fins that work by cre- Third, these fins cause less silting Fifth, the fins bend near the period using these fins and tight you want for any diver? would like to credit our readership ating a void in the water and while generating more directed ball of your foot to allow more small kicking like the fish that with being able to view his conti- being sucked into the void. power where you want it. This natural movement with less he is tracking. Tighter smaller One last question may remain. bution in this light, we comes from the delta wing shape effort while producing more kicks create less drag using less Why don’t you know someone published his detailed What benefits does this of the tail fin and blade that focus power using a living hinge. effort and allowing more of your who already uses these perspective for critical new fin technology bring All of these features are pat- effort to go towards speed. fins and loves them? review by our audience. to every type of diver? ented except for the living The Ocean Diver Even though the hinge that is patent pending. cannot have first patent Therefore, these fins benefit you a bet- with more power, speed and ter fin comfort with more maneuver- ability using tighter kicks with less effort more efficiently.

Which one? The question is not which one of these fins would work best for which type of diver. The ques- Patent diagrams of tion is which one of these divers the Mor-fin in action wouldn’t gain from using Morfin’s Delfins or VT-300’s? For the Mount Behind a design 60 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED According to historians, the first fins were made by Louis de Corlieu Fin Care (1933). In order to Metal springs are improve movement more durable, and flexible under water, marine Rinse with officer, Louis de fresh water Use Corlieu invented after a the nageories á dive To avoid stress on a full foot fin, wet the pocket, fold over the pied, or foot fins, back of the fin, insert your foot in 1933—the true and flip up the back part. ancestors of the fins we see To avoid stress on a heel strap fin, today. They use your buckle. Loosen the strap, were made Do’s & buckle up, pull to fit. That way you A variety of natural Don’ts reduce the stress on your buckle, of fin straps Metal springs rubber, which will most certainly not like with finger strap rein- Store your fins properly, you if you keep stretching and pull- You have heard it forced with slats and they will last a long, long ing your strap when putting your before, and we all Simple rubber fin on. However, if you are one strap for buckles of steel

time. Save the inserts, that helps know it, yet I have OCEANO.ORG keep the shape. They should be rinsed of those who like the speed and enough dives under convenience of the pull the strap- with fresh water after a dive, and dried my belt to know that The commonplace method, always, always keep a before stored away, with the inserts. This we don’t always fol- buckle and strap set is particularly important for a full foot fin. couple of spare straps at hand. low our own advice, allow for easy adjust- and this one is worth ments of strap tightness • Store in a cool and dry place. Buckle up, buckle down, being a nag about: Do not store in direct sun light. Be prepared, always buckle shut, buckle tight keep one complete • Do not store them standing on strap as a spare, There are a number of different - their blades for any long period of including both lock- tions to keep your foot in your fin, and With time. Hang them up if possible. ing buckle ends. ■ the buckle and/or strap should also Aqualung’s HF (Hands Free) be considered when shopping for • Avoid leaving the fins in a car trunk Buckle, you a fin. All you warm water divers out or in direct sunlight for a long period of just step on the there, you probably have no idea time on a hot summer day. The heat red buttom to why we are even addressing this, Special thanks to the deforms the blade, which can seriously release the strap unless you have some physical prob- following participating fin affect the performance of the fins. lems that makes it tougher for you to manufacturers for their help Elastic bands handle yourself before and during a with the fin feature article: • Also, avoid contact with chemicals. for secur- For bare feet or boots? dive. But for us cold water divers, a Exposure means that rubber and plastic APS Mantaray ing fins with If you dive in cold dry suit and dry gloves can really put materials can degrade, and that goes www.apsmantaray.com footpockets water you’ll need a damper on our graceful appear- for pretty much all of your dive equip- the boots. You ance in the water. Before we spend ment. Even storing your equipment can use these money on a good quality fin, we in warm near chemicals, gasoline and solvents www.beuchat.fr should take care to look for a fin we water too can cause problems. can put on and adjust with ease, and Mares www.mares.com at least bring your dry suit gloves with Mares’ ABS you while you do your shopping. Mor-fin buckle is hinged and www.mor-fin.com can be Always keep Seemann Sub flipped open www.seemannsub.de even with one complete gloves on Leave out of strap as a spare sun, avoid chemicals

61 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Jean-Michel to think of inspiration as floating in the profile Cousteau universe like seeds. Ideas are out there tries out the just looking for a fertile mind in which Force Fin to grow. Take our new OPS fin that we Design that are making for Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Interview and photos: Bob Evans Ocean Futures Dive Team. I conceived Peter Symes designed for his team of this fin watching water wick to the end Supplemtary product of a leaf of a tropical plant. The concept photos and historical is before us everytime it rains. images courtesy of Force Fin What influence did your friends and fam- ily and your upbringing have on the choices you made in life? I can credit my family for everything

When were you first attracted to the the truck and into the water. They ocean? reappeared about 20 minutes later dragging a box between them. Our talks with Bob award-winner and indus- My great-grandmother had a summer As they passed, my father told us all Evans were just full try legend with a long list house in Hermosa Beach, California. My not to look at them. It was there and grandmother taught me to swim in the then, I decided I was going to be a of good ole plain fun, with of merits to his credit Bob sand troughs that remain full of water at scuba diver. lots of laughs and entertain- Evans is obviously both multi- low . I grew up in Hermosa Beach, ing anecdotes, yet serious facetted and multi-talented California, home for California surfing and What inspires you, and how do and focused on the subject. and impossible to fit into any diving industries. The Ocean has always you get your ideas? been there for me. From the first impression, he of the usual stereotypes boxes. Dr (see inter- was open, welcoming and very Here are some of his thoughts What sparked your interest in diving? view with Phil Nuytten in conversational. Inventor of the on the connection between X-RAY MAG issue #9) calls legendary Force Fin, multiple shape and function. When I was a child, my family and I me “Bob by God”. I like were having lunch on a breakwater in Marseilles. A truck pulled down the jetty, and a couple of guys in A conversation with Bob Evans with steel tanks on their backs jumped out of Splitting Fins 62 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED If you feel a Force Fins are profile fin, then it is working shaped by hand Bob Evans against the water. If you move We do not use or better yet, feel like you are computers. Force Fin effortlessly flying, but you feel Extra with the no fin, then it is a good, maybe characteristic whiskers even great design.

Force Fin also supplies the military How do you sense or judge that a and Excellerating Force Fins design is right? are longer and flatter than the Original models, so we By its lack of sensation. Earth is enhance their effectiveness all water. Everything in nature is by adding winglets, Bat Wings, designed by and for the move- Whiskers, Speed Pods or Sharks’ ment of water. Water always Teeth. These shapes are designed takes the path of least resistance. to increase the speed and vol- If you feel a fin, then it is working ume of water travelling over a against the water. If you move or longer and flatter fin blade. better yet, feel like you are effort- lessly flying, but you feel no fin, An early I have ever done. After Marseilles, Force Fin shapes. There is a vol- then it is a good, maybe even study of my parents gave me a surf mat ume of water behind you, above great design. vortex with a clear window that allowed and below, all waiting to be genera- me to look down into the clear activated by the movement of tors waters of the Mediterranean and your fins. The shape of Force Fin, see all of the fish and creatures its leading edges at the side of below. I became obsessed with the foot pocket, its smooth- the ocean at this early age. A ness and curves, its structure cousin taught me to free dive. My combined with its flexibility, father is an artist. He taught me to all work to draw the total sculpt. Force Fins are shaped by volume of water over hand; we do not use computers. and under the blade, and the reaction of the Explain what you percieve as the water to the motion of connection between shape and the blade all work to function? accelerate the water through the V-split, Fins are a perfect example of no matter what the importance of this relation- position you move ship. Engineers make other fins your leg. Our Extra in a computer. They are all flat and their function is best under- Having fun mak- stood 2-dimensionally—pushing ing customized fit and pulling the fin blade against for Jean-Michel the water. As I said, I sculpt the Cousteau

63 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Bob Evans engaging X-RAY What do various shapes mean to MAG editors Andrey Bizuykin profile the performance of a fin? and Millis Keegan in debate Everything. For example, holes in the foot of the diver. It must also fins inhibit water flow. They create fit their application. A soft flexible more work. We’re terra creatures fin will be most efficient for a diver and our frame of reference for who is under light loads—diving moving is resistance against the for recreation in warm waters. soles of our feet. That makes us A flexible fin may work in more comfortable with fins that offer demanding conditions, but it will that resistance. But for water to have a fall-off in efficiency if the move quickly, it must be free. diver is carrying heavy loads, Shapes that are designed to freely diving with doubles, wearing a move water from the front of the drysuit, and if their kick is very blade to the rear will give better strong. In this case, the fin must performance than shapes that are give more power, which we pre- designed to capture water. fer to call leverage under load, and a stiffer fin is more suitable. How does one select which fin is appropriate for him or her? What do you consider your best idea? We have found that the most important factor for fin perform- I will not argue with experts. Our ance is how it fits the personal- Tan Delta Force Fin, which is ity of the diver. That is why we based upon the Original Force Fin make so many models of Force design is in the New York Museum Fin. All fins marketed today work. of Modern Art for changing the I believe that ours work better way in which we perceive mov- and our company is exclusive in ing through water. That is a very its ability to explain how and why tough act to follow. I am excited they work better, but the fact about our new Launch Pad line is that the fin must fit the diver’s of fins. They have a foot pocket personality for it to work best for to which you can attach many them. First, it must comfortably fit different fin blades, but with a I can credit my new twist. At the point where they “...to help people move attach there is an interlocking family for every- through the water as gear surface, so you can eas- thing I have ily turn the blade to change its freely as the marine relationship to your foot and the ever done inhabitants that water. It can become stiffer or more flexible. You can change its inspire our fin pitch or orientation simply by turn- designs.” ing it at its point of attach- ment. This can be done before you enter the water or when you are underwater and underway. It’s the next generation of our Force Wings, Bat Wings, Whiskers, Speed Pods, Sharks’ Teeth and their like.

Tinkering in the wizard’s workshop 64 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED From Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences: Angelwings The most impor- Biography tant factor for fin performance Bob Evans is Founder and President an Honorary Masters of Science by of Bob Evans Designs, Inc., the cor- the Trustees of his alma mater, Brooks is how it fits the porate entity behind Force Fin. He is Institute of Photography for extraordi- personality of the a world class photographer, vision- nary contributions to art, science and ary and noted inventor who has photography. diver. been awarded over 33 patents for Evans’ photography has appeared his revolutionary fin designs, including in over 300 publications including fins that use lift as opposed to drag Time, Life and National Geographic. forces to propel a diver, fins that snap He has published two books, The to increase diver efficiency and fins Living World of the Reef and The Who do you admire the that are split. His Tan Delta Force Fin is Channel Islands Collection. most, or do you have a role part of the permanent collections of Bob Evans has designed underwa- model? the New York Museum of Modern Art ter camera housings for time-lapse and along with his Extra Force Fin, is systems, camera towing systems I have many role models: My part of the collections of the Costume and a buoy system to carry cam- parents, JFK, Johnny Weismueller, Institute of the New York Metropolitan eras to preset depths. He was Chief Will Rogers, Bev Morgan, Lad Museum of Art. Photographer of the SCCWRPP’s study Handleman, Bob and Bill Meistrell, Bob has devoted his life to of artificial reefs managed by Willard , Jacques Do you think tographer. My fins are designed What new innova- sharing the oceans. His compa- Bascom and John Isaacs of Scripps Cousteau, Jean Michel Cousteau, modern societies to make it free and easy for peo- tions in diving do you think ny’s mission statement reflects Institute of . Atlantic Hans Haas and Malcolm X. can co-exist with ple to move through water. In my we will see in the next 5-10-15 his vision to help people feel Richfield Foundation funded Evans’ nature in a sustainable own way, my life is dedicated years? How can diving be made as free as those who inhabit productions for the Cabrillo Marine What can we learn from nature? manner i.e. through imple- to educating the public that the easier and safer? it. His diving career began in 1964 Museum. mentation of new laws, conven- is a when he learned to free dive and Santa Barbara’s Sea Center Everything. tions and new technology? place of beauty and freedom. Masks. They are due for an purchased his first . From 1966- opened with an exhibit of his pho- When we raise the collective update. Methods of carrying less 73, he was employed by Dive ‘N Surf tographic work. In the 1980’s, Evans Inspiration comes from many sources. We’re at a very difficult time. consciousness to understand the weight. in Redondo Beach, California, and received a research grant from Malcolm X was a prominent black There are many of us who oceans in this way, that will result was certified by Bob Meistrell, County Kennedy Foundation to study the fea- nationalist and charismatic human acknowledge that this is impera- in the change necessary to our Do you consider doing other of Los Angeles Instructor No. 1. In sibility of harvesting and canning mus- rights activist in the U.S. in the 1960’s tive, but there are so many con- own survival. types of dive equipment but fins? 1967, he was trained as a commer- sels from the offshore oil platforms of flicting forces polarized in their cial diver and over the years, he has the Santa Barbara Channel. positions. Technology or laws What role do you think recreation- Yes. I have a great mask design, made over 850 dives documenting Bob Evans is best-known for his fin will not achieve the necessary al diving can play in raising the but I think my energy is best spent life below platforms in Santa Barbara designs, the most popular of which change. A change in global con- public’s awareness in the future? applying what I have learned to Channel under contracts with Exxon, is his Force Fin, which he patented sciousness is required. The majority making ships more efficient. I also Shell Oil Company, Atlantic Richfield, in 1981. His day job is serving as of the world perceives the water Divers sharing their underwater have some great ideas on how to Union Oil, Western Oil & Gas and President of Bob EvansDesigns, Inc., a as cold and dark, with inhabitants experiences is part of the edu- make underwater current genera- the American research and development company that are alien at best. They are cational process necessary to tors better. Petroleum that also manu- factures more frequently understood as raise global consciousness. Our Institute. As a and distributes Evans’ monsters. The funny thing is that current administration has one of What legacy would you like to photographer he fins. ■ everything is water, and we are the worst environmental records leave behind? is best known for the ones that are in an alien envi- in history. A private showing to his Channel Islands ronment when immersed. the President and his staff of a Creativity is a gift we all have. To Collection, which The mission statement of our “Voyage to Kure”, the first of the learn how to tap into it you must includes images he company is “to help people new television series by Jean push forward with positive solu- took on and in the waters move through the water as freely Michel Cousteau and his Ocean tions in response to the negative. surrounding the California as the marine inhabitants that Futures Dive Team, catalyzed the Channel Islands. inspire our fin President into designating the What’s next for Bob Evans? Bob Evans is an original SSI One diver designs.” Northern Hawaiian Islands as the Platinum Pro 5000. He was awarded can make a I began my world’s largest marine preserve. It Efficient ships and clean energy. ■ career as an is true. One diver can make a dif- difference underwater pho- ference.

65 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED science

Editted by Michael Symes Fundamentally, In a completely different context, uneven distribution of elec- this all depends this ability also enables us, for tron density, the molecule has on the fact that example, to keep ourselves and a positively charged end and a water has a our clothes clean and free from negatively charged end. It thus great ability to pathological bacteria, thus help- acts like a small electromagnet eliminate the effect of the dissolve things. ing us to maintain good health. having a north pole and a south van der Waal forces, allowing These solvent Water can, in fact, dissolve pole i.e. it is polar. the ions to separate. On dissolv- properties of more substances than any other ing, the positive sodium ions then water are vital solvent—that’s what makes it become surrounded by water in human biol- unique. It has often been called molecules where the negative ogy, because the universal solvent, although this end of the polar water molecule many bio- is something of an exaggeration. is attracted to the positive sodium chemical But what is it that makes water ion. And similarly, the positive end reactions such a good solvent? of the water molecule is attracted take place The ability of ions and other to the negative chloride ion. The only within The solvent molecules to dissolve in water relatively small size of the water aqueous properties of water is due to this polarity. Take, for molecule allows many water mol- . To put it briefly, water is a good example, the ionic NaCl molecule ecules to surround one molecule. Water is also solvent due to its polarity. This (sodium chloride, or salt). The solid An ionic or polar compound in used to trans- polarity arises from the shape of NaCl crystal consists of a lattice water is thus surrounded by water port the result- this relatively small molecule. As of positively charged Na ions and molecules to give a stable solu- ing biological we have shown in previous arti- negatively charged Cl ions. They tion of solute. molecules, cles, the shape of the water mol- are held together An example of a non-ionic such as the ecule is non-linear. by attractive solute is table sugar, where the oxygen-carry- The significance of having 2 electrostatic water dipoles hydrogen-bond Water is ing haemoglobin hydrogen atoms on one side of forces, otherwise (see X-RAY MAG no. 7) to the obviously in the blood, not the water molecule is that oxy- known as van der dipolar regions of the sugar mol- only around the gen, being a stronger attractor Waal forces. ecule thereby allowing it to be important body but also to for electrons than hydrogen, carried away into . as a basic carry away the waste- is able to pull the shared elec- When a crystal of NaCl comes In general, ionic and polar sub- necessity for products of metabo- trons towards it. This results in an into contact with water the small stances such as acids, alcohols maintaining life. lism, such as urea in unequal sharing of the electrons. water molecules can penetrate and salts are easily soluble in urine. It will be seen that, due to this between these ions and thereby water, and non-polar substances Quite simply, if you don’t regularly take in water you can die within a few Water days. Text by Michael Symes A Unique Solvent 66 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Water such as fats and oils are not. Non-polar molecules stay together in water because it is energetically more favourable for the water mol- however, are not ecules to hydrogen bond to each ocean water. affected to any real extent by other than to engage in van der It will be seen that, apart from plant or animal life. For example, Waal interactions with non-polar water of course, the major com- no known biological process molecules. ponent of sea water is NaCl, removes the element sodium some 85 percent of the total from the sea, thus allowing it to Salinity of the Oceans salts. This is because sea life has a accumulate. For a diver, one of the most obvi- strong influence on the composi- Now, while the average salinity ous facts about the water of the tion of sea water. Crustaceans of the oceans is about 3.5 per- oceans is its salinity, due of course take out large amounts of cal- cent, varying from about 3.2 to to the ability of water to easily dis- cium salts to build their shells, 3.7 percent, there can be great solve all ionic salts. The salinity, as and diatoms remove silica to differences in salinity between all divers know, has a great effect form their shells. Some elements, different bodies of water. For on buoyancy. example, The Black Sea, which Salinity is a measure of is greatly diluted by river run-offs, the amount of dissolved has an average salinity of only salts in seawater, and is 1.6 percent, while the Caspian calculated as the amount Sea has a salinity of only 1.2 of salts in grams dissolved YANN SAINT-YVES percent. This is still quite salty, in 1 kg of seawater. In though, when compared to fresh the case of common salt, water with a salinity less than 0.05 NaCl, for example, the percent. maximum is 357 Not only are there slight dif- grams in 1000 grams of ferences between the oceans water at 0 ºC. regarding their salinities, in much About 70 percent of of the Earth’s oceans there is the Earth is covered with a marked difference in salinity water, with about 97 per- between the surface zone and cent of that water in the the deep zone, with the salinity oceans. The oceans con- increasing with depth. Although tain about 3.5 percent of salinity generally increases with dissolved minerals, so it is depth, there is a distinct layer nowhere near a saturated where salinity increases sharply, solution. However, the called the . These sharp Dead Sea has a salinity of differences in salinity can be about 30 percent, which is due to several causes, e.g. an getting close to saturation. excess of evaporation over pre- The following elements cipitation which leads to surface make up 99.99 percent of water being saltier than deeper the total mass of Earth’s The Dead Sea water. This again can lead to some strange oceanic effects, Element % Element % both physically and biologically. Oxygen 85.84 Sulphur 0.091 The salinity of the oceans is Hydrogen 10.82 Calcium 0.04 thus a very interesting and com- Chlorine 1.94 Potassium 0.04 plex subject due mainly to the Sodium 1.08 Bromine 0.0067 unique solvent properties of Magnesium 0.1292 Carbon 0.0028 water. ■

67 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Striking deep current These series of measurements This reversal is reversal in the tropical give a well-defined picture of the tropical circulation in this zone, already known, but Pacific Ocean but they also reveal a surprising its amplitude in variability of intermediate equa- this case is striking. The near-surface currents of the torial currents, which plunge at Pacific Ocean are generated the Equator under the Equatorial essentially by the winds, whereas Undercurrent and flow in the the deeper ones (known as ther- same direction between about mohaline currents) result from 300 and 1200 m depth. water-density variations induced Between October 1999 and by differences in temperature April 2000, these equatorial inter- and salinity between the distinct mediate currents changed direc- NZ scientists study It will be a while before the masses. The prevailing winds in tion, between 2° S latitude and Antarctic currents initial data is analysed, and it is the tropical Pacific, the trade the Equator, over the 1700 km of the next sail south that will reveal winds, blow from the American the zone investigated. This revers- New Zealand scientists have been more about the world’s biggest continent towards Asia, causing al is already known, but its ampli- getting close to the world’s big- current. The data obtained will tell the warm surface waters to drift tude in this case is striking. The gest in a bid to us about how currents vary and in a general East-West direction. resulting variation in water mass shed light on some unanswered how the ocean temperature var- As they approach the Asian con- transport is considerable. questions about climate change. ies over a year, and that allows tinent, these waters accumulate, A NZ research vessel is back in us to understand whether there then change direction, part of What causes this reversal? the country after travelling more are sudden changes, or whether them turning North, part going One hypothesis put forward than 3000 kilometres in rough things just change with the sea- South, while another portion flows involves the passage of an oce- southern seas, on a mission to sons. ■ at depth, feeding the Equatorial anic instability wave, but no dis- anchor scientific recording gear Undercurrent (EUC), which runs turbance of the EUC was detect- in the sub-Antarctic ocean. The between 100 and 150 m below ed during the research cruises deepest mooring is in 4500 metres The Antarctic the surface. The EUC flows along and the reversal remains unex- of water. The equipment will help the Equator, from Papua New plained. Further current measure- study just how much water flows circumpolar current is esti- Guinea to the Galapagos Islands, ment campaigns in the future in the Antarctic circumpolar cur- mated to be 110 times big- Short-circuit found counter to the trade winds, and should shed light on this event rent, which is estimated to be 110 ger than all the water in extends over a width of nearly and bring clues for unravelling the times bigger than all the water in 300 km at a maximum velocity of dynamics of these currents. ■ all the world’s rivers. all the world’s rivers. around 3.6 km/h. in ocean circulation In two oceanographic cruises run in October 1999 and April A short-circuit in the circula- The researchers made use 2000 as part of the IRD’s ECOP tion of the world’s oceans has of a unique signal—the spread programme, the Institute’s been discovered that could of helium released naturally researchers were able to study aid predictions about future cli- from the Earth’s interior at this region and, in particular, the mate change. This process in deep vents in the Pacific. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation. The the Southern Ocean allows cold helium dissolves in the deep latter has a determinant effect on waters that sink to the abyss to sea and a plume of this marked the distribution of ocean water Giant cold water eddy return to the surface more rapidly water travels down the coast masses, ocean/atmosphere off Sydney lowers sea than previously thought. of Chile. It is injected at depth exchanges in the tropical south- This affects the Southern Ocean into the Antarctic current on ern Pacific and many anomalies level circulation, which links all the the Pacific side of Cape Horn. of climate that occur on the con- Australian oceanographers have other oceans, and is also relevant It then streams through into the tinents that border the Pacific. discovered a giant cold water to uptake and release of car- Atlantic with the current, but in Physical determinations of cur- eddy off Sydney which has low- bon dioxide by the sea; transport the process is spread, shifted rents and masses of water under ered sea levels by almost one between the deep and surface and diffused by the circulation. transport were made from the sur- meter and impacted a major waters in the Southern Ocean Measurements of this spread- face down to 1200 m over a large ocean current. is particularly important for this ing of the helium were used to area, 1700 km in length. process. deduce the short-circuit. ■ CSIRO, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research

68 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Ocean eddy observed off The authors conducted a 21- The sea surface was northern Baja California day hydrographic survey in the southern region of the California lowered by 70cm Current, and observed for the first at its centre Eddies are important because time a subsurface anticyclonic these giant swirling areas of sea- (warm core) eddy off northern eter of about 200 km and reaches water are frequent in the world’s Baja California with the same to depth of 1 km, lies about 100 oceans. Passing eddies can ac- water mass characteristics as the km off Sydney. It was stated that celerate local currents, retain and California Undercurrent. The core the eddy was so powerful, it had transport plankton and nutrients, of the eddy was quasi-circular pushed out to sea the strong East enhance open water productiv- with radii of 35 km and thickness Australian Current, although ship- ity and stimulate fast, deep sink- of 250 m. ■ ping traffic and fishing have not ing. Quasi-permanent eddies been affected. can retain larvae in the lee of an The cause of the giant eddy island, for example. Important ver- Giant cold water eddy was a mystery. The sea surface tebrates like sea turtles, elephant was lowered by 70cm at its cen- seals, blue whales and sperm off Sydney lowers sea tre, although the dip in the sur- whales seem to track these pelag- level face of the ocean was invisible to ic features, presumably because the eye, it had been accurately they aggregate prey species. Australian oceanographers have measured by European and U.S. Eddies are easily detectable by discovered a giant cold water satellites. Snorkelen satellites, although a recent article eddy off Sydney, which has low- Ocean eddies can have a life in Geophysical Research Letters ered sea levels by almost one me- of up to three weeks, although reports that some deep eddies ter and impacted a major ocean similar eddies off South Australia Duikmateriaal can go undetected by satellite, current. and Western Australia are known because they remain submerged. The eddy, which has a diam- to have survived several months. ■ Tek-Diving Arctic Deep Sea May Hold World’s Largest Fuel Supply DiversenFull Page The energy source of the future duction technology. Rather than causing similar methane releases may lie beneath the ocean floor mining solid hydrates, scientists today. and under Arctic permafrost. are working on ways to melt the Unstable hydrates could also Both places are sources of gas deposits underground. This would cause underwater landslides, which hydrates, strange ice-like sub- free the gas from the ice, allow- could damage offshore drilling stances that trap methane—the ing the methane to be captured equipment and possibly create www.lucasdivestore.nl primary component of natural gas. in the same way ordinary natural surges large enough to generate The hydrates were discovered gas is collected. tsunamis, according to some mod- in 1983, and no one knows how Because methane is a pow- els. ■ much of them exist. But there erful greenhouse appear to be enough hydrates to gas, some experts represent a larger energy source wonder if massive than all of the word’s gas, oil and methane releases coal combined. Because each from melting seabed cubic meter of hydrate releases hydrates might have 225 cubic meters of natural gas contributed to past they are a very good storage sys- epochs of global Maandag t/m zaterdag gehele dag open, tem for methane. warming, while oth- LUCAS DUIKSPORT NEDERLAND donderdag koopavond Efforts to extract the methane ers are concerned Bedrijvenweg 3A, 7442 CX Nijverdal, Snel bereikbaar vanaf A1 / E8 are focusing on the Arctic, where that current global Telefoon 0548 - 615106 Afslag Hellendoorn tests have shown that gas can warming may heat Fax 0548 - 611769 be produced from hydrates using the oceans enough Email: [email protected] (bedrijvenpark 't Lochter) conventional drilling and pro- to melt the hydrates, Website: www.lucas-diving.com DIVING INTERNATIONAL Levering ook per post!

69 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED The hollow space of the middle ear has Dehydration also been called the A dangerous condition—even for a diver Medical tympanic cavity, or cavum tympani. The Text by Michael Symes eustachian tube joins the tympanic cavity is better than with the nasal cavity During an average day cure. And so, (nasopharynx), allow- in a temperate climate, a dehydration is ing pressure to equal- person’s body loses about ize between the inner obviously best ear and throat 2.5 litres of water through avoided by sweating, urination and drinking plenty loss of water vapour from of water to maintain one’s the lungs. This must be liquid bal- replaced; if not, dehydra- ance, concur- tion, to a greater or lesser rently with the Nasal Irrigation Helps extent, will occur. loss of water. Excess water is generally not Dehydration can be very insidious harmful, as it Text by David F Colvard, MD in its effects on the human body. is efficiently www.divepsych.com Divers Clear Ear Squeeze Initial symptoms may only be a removed by NeilMed Pharma- Middle ear squeeze caused buffered saline nasal irrigation sys- in their middle ears. Buffered saline headache or slight dizziness. But if the kidneys ceuticals, Inc. of Santa by difficulty equalizing the tem. They completed the “After” nasal irrigation can effectively and ignored too long, then suddenly and expelled as urine. Rosa, California, USA, questionnaire after using the prod- safely reduce nasal congestion —wham! Before you realise it, if it is However, when large amounts of sponsored the study pressure in middle ears dur- uct and diving. and decrease the frequency and not treated quickly by drinking up water have been lost due to sick- to determine the effi- ing descent and ascent is difficulty in clearing or equalizing to a whole litre of water or more, it ness, for example with diarrhoea, cacy and safety of among the most common • 44.0% reported less nasal con- the pressure in the middle ears can result in unconsciousness and there may be a large loss of impor- buffered saline nasal problems in recreational gestion after using Sinus Rinse of many divers. Additionally, nasal finally, if you are unlucky, in death. tant electrolytes such as sodium irrigation among expe- • 10.0% reported more nasal con- irrigation can decrease the use Symptoms become increas- and potassium ions, which can lead rienced divers to help scuba divers. A recent study gestion. of decongestants, either oral or ingly severe with greater water loss. to malfunctioning of the heart. The equalize pressure in showed that buffered saline • 69.0% reported less frequent dif- spray or drops, and reduce the Dehydration symptoms generally re-establishment of the correct elec- their middle ears and nasal irrigation can help nat- ficulty in clearing or equalizing risk of rebound congestion and become noticeable after about 2 trolytic balance in the body thus reduce their use of urally. Many divers use pre- their ears reverse middle ear squeeze during percent of one’s normal water vol- becomes important. decongestants. • 5% reported more frequent dif- or after a dive when the effect of ume has been lost. It is also at this Commercial physiological elec- dive oral or spray decon- ficulty. the decongestants may have worn point that the feeling of strong thirst trolyte mixtures are available for dis- gestants to help equalize • 60.3% for whom use of oral off. begins to be felt. Thus, a feeling of solving in water and should always pressure in their middle ears decongestants were applicable A buffered saline nasal irrigation thirst is a sign that you are already be carried with one’s medicine reported decreased or discontin- system appears to be an economi- partially dehydrated. supplies. (For example, in Denmark, and sinuses. ued use. cal, convenient, safe and effective Revolyt® can be bought over the • 55.3% for whom use of decon- natural alternative to decongest- At about 5 - 6 percent water loss counter at any pharmacist. Details Frontal Between November 2005 and gestant sprays or drops were ants for many recreational divers one may become confused and of this formulation can be found on Sinus September 2006, 100 experienced applicable reported decreased who have nasal congestion and get strong headaches. the Internet.) scuba divers completed web- or discontinued use. difficulty equalizing pressure in their Failing this, a useful rule of thumb based “Before” and “After” ques- • None reported increased use of middle ears. The same may be With 10 - 15 percent water loss there in an emergency is to add the juice tionnaires. They were invited to decongestants in any form. true for airline passengers and flight will be cessation of urination and of two oranges to a litre of cooled participate after reporting difficulty • 72.0% would recommend the crews, but that group has not been onset of delirium. boiled water together with a hand- equalizing the pressure in their mid- Sinus Rinse system to other divers studied yet. ■ ful of sugar and a couple of large Line of dle ears or using decongestants in • and 3% would not. Losses greater than 15 percent are pinches of salt. nasol- an earlier diver safety survey con- usually fatal. In any event, with continual large acrimal ducted by myself. After complet- Experienced scuba divers continue Warning: Do not rinse if nasal losses of body liquids medical assist- duct ing the “Before” questionnaire, the to dive despite the medical risk passage is completely blocked Avoiding dehydration ance should be obtained as soon as study participants were sent free of nasal congestion and difficulty or if you have an ear infection or As always, it is true that prevention possible. ■ Maxillary Sinus samples of NeilMed’s Sinus Rinse clearing or equalizing the pressure blocked ears.

70 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED ecology

Edited by Michael Arvedlund, PhD and Peter Symes, M.Sc.

Across the globe, coral reefs are in peril—this is already old news. Man-made stresses—overfishing, pollution and climate change—has sent even pristine coral reefs around the world into a drastic decline causing major changes in ecosystem structure. The resilience and regenerative capacity of reef ecosystems—that is, their ability to absorb shocks, resist phase shifts and regener- ate after natural and human-induced disturbances—are Why & How being overwhelmed by these stresses causing dramatic our coral reefs change shifts in species composition, often incurring huge eco- nomic losses too. Coral reef resilience But what is really happening on reefs?

71 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED How we like to see reefs, healthy ecology and diverse

A ball on three surfaces illustrate the three basic modes of stability. The ball on a flat surface will just roll and come to rest somewhere else. The ball in a bowl will come to rest in the middle—this is a stable equilibrium. The ball balancing on a peak is also in a equilibrium, but in a unstable one, as it will roll off at the slightest disturbance

In the news sec- This cryptic loss of coral reef resilience the Caribbean, leading to a near total tion of this issue can manifest itself in numerous ways. collapse of the populations and precipi- of the magazine For example, in the Caribbean, the col- tating macro-algal blooms that still persist there is another, lapse of many coral reefs was long pre- today. In addition, remnant coral popu- yet similar, case- ceded by dwindling stocks of fishes and lations are further affected by increasing- story about a increased nutrient and sediment runoff ly prevalent coral disease and bleaching shifted ecosys- tem. from land. In the 1950s, what prevented induced by global warming. The ball fell blooms of macroalgae from smothering out of the bowl all together. Scallops along the reefs was the increasing presence of the eastern sea- a single species of sea urchin, Diadema In retrospect, it is now clear that long board of the US antillarum, which grazed upon the before the present widespread loss of are now being algae. This is an example of a buffering coral cover, many Caribbean reefs were overgrazed mechanism that kicks in acting to return on an unrecognized trajectory to col- by cownose the system to its steady state—the ball lapse. The symptoms included loss of rays because the sharks that seeks to roll back. In the 1970s, the densi- macro-fauna and reduced fish stocks. We are well acquainted with the not well understood. Such a proc- the middle. Unless, that is, you used to keep ties of Diadema reached extraordinarily And as the fishes role as the dominant travel catalogue depiction of ess during which an otherwise shake the bowl so violently that the ray popula- high levels on overfished reefs, averag- herbivores were gradually replaced by coral reefs as pristine and colour- stable ecosystem changes into the ball falls out. And in that case, tion in check ing more than ten individuals per square a single species of sea urchins, this led to ful shallow-water assemblages of another stable state is called a question is, where does the ball have been metre in shallow waters. In 1983, the destructive overgrazing and bioerosion structures and shapes, dominated phase shift. end up then? over-fished. That magnitude and crowded conditions of by food-limited sea urchins, and reduced by scleractinian corals teeming over-fishing can Diadema populations eventually led to recruitment of corals. Let us look further with diverse life forms. Like most Stability & phase shifts Where do coral reefs end up? have such dev- an epidemic, which spread throughout into the dynamics of these phase shifts. other ecosystems in a stable state, Many complex systems—eco- Regarding coral reef ecosystems, astating knock- on effects all reefs usually reassemble them- systems, economies—exhibits a on the other hand, there has the way through selves after regular disturbances dynamic behaviour by which they been little success in predicting the ecosystem is such as tropical hurricanes or revert back to a stable equilibrium such regime or phase shifts. Mainly hardly surprising disease outbreaks. However, with after minor or lesser pertubations because the increased instability as it has hap- the addition of human impacts from the outside. This is thanks of coral reef ecosystems pened numer- many contemporary coral reefs to various buffer and cor- and their state prior ous times in the increasingly fail to regenerate rective mechanisms, to their collaps- past. after major impacts, and instead which kick in with es has often have undergone a rapid shift growing effect gone unrec- to an alternate state. In other the further away ognized, words, they become something from the steady even on else and often quite different. The state equilibrium reefs most familiar of these transitions the system are which is from dominance by corals to brought. A very have dominance by fleshy seaweed, simple model of been well How did it although several other transitions this principle is a studied. come to this? have been documented. The ball in bowl. The A reef laid extent to which alternate states ball will always barren by the are stable or reversible is presently come to rest in overgrazing of sea urchins

72 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Steady state of a Hervibores keep healthy reef with algae at bay high biodiversity Q uote Many heavily fished coral reefs have a Energy high abundance of sea urchins that may suppress the Overfishing of recovery of fish and herbivore fish coral populations Steady state once fishing effort dominated by is reduced or elimi- macro-algae nated. Restoration of these reefs may be accelerated by intervening and reducing sea urchin populations—par- ticularly those of long-lived species. Overfishing of echi- T.R. MCCLANAHAN ET AL CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 10 (1), noid predators, Sea 136–154. urchin populations are no longer regu- lated by predation

Bare Rock Sea urchin barren state

Fishing Pressure

A simplified model As regards to the Great Barrier B ut how is coral cover zooxanthellae algae living inside Somewhat paradoxically, coral passing through plankton and ulti- of the correlation Reef, inputs of sediment and nutri - linked to the fish abun- the tissues of the cnidarian host reefs are intolerant of liquid nutri - mately ending up in the biomass between fishing pres- ents from land have increased has been fine-tuned to conserving ent enrichment as it comes, for of fish. sure and the struc- fourfold since Europeans settled, dance and diversity? key nutrients very effectively. The example, in run-off from agriculture Of the dissolved forms of fixed N, ture, or state, of the while the numbers of turtles, dug - algae harness energy from sunlight or sewers (which may also cause ammonia is by far the most eas - reef ecosystem. As ongs and other macrofauna have It has something to do with nutrient and fix carbon by photosynthesis. smothering algae blooms). Corals ily available for uptake from the the fishing pressure grows the reefs col- greatly decreased. Comparisons cycling. A healthy coral reef is a Energy from this source is pro - need to have the nutrient convert - water by the symbionts. Since liv - lapses into a succes- of adjacent reefs open and closed diverse, highly productive commu- vided to the polyp host in return ed into solid form. And this is where ing fish constantly excrete ammo- sion of steady states to fishing today indicate that the nity able of thriving in waters that for exclusive access to the waste- the fish comes in. nia from their gills, it has been in a process that is, biomass of targeted reef fishes has are actually exceptionally poor in nutrients produced by the host. In this context, nutrients arrive suggested that removing major at worst, irreversible, been reduced by up to 60 per - dissolved nutrients. These wastes (N and P) function to in the sea from various sources in amounts of fish from the system and at best, difficult cent, causing substantial changes In other words, reefs accomplish fertilize the algae. Very little gets land, some diffuse, some point-like, might ultimately deprive corals of and time consuming in the abundance of their prey. fixing high amount of carbon even wasted to the outside. in the form of run-off from rivers needed nutrients. to reverse. Coral cover has significantly in the relative absence of dissolved and seepage of ground-water and Restoration of eco - declined over the last 40 years, nitrogen and phosphate, which we Nitrogen discharge from sewers. Under nor- Differences systems is very costly reflecting the impacts of three suc - all know as the main components The most significant, and appar- mal circumstances, these nutrients If one looks closer at the major and takes many years. Once again, cessive major outbreaks of crown- of fertilizers. The secret to the suc - ently “limiting” nutrient in the pass through mangrove or seagrass coral reef systems in the world, prevention is such a of-thorns starfish and two large- cess of the coral reefs is commonly picture is fixed nitrogen, a critical areas before reaching the reef. It it soon becomes obvious that better strategy than scale bleaching events in 1998 believed to be the highly efficient element in the construction of all is these plants that are capable of there are profound differences in curing after the fact. and 2000. In 2003, more than half recycling of nutrients in the sys - proteins. This why corals also cap - utilizing the dissolved nutrients and their species richness and com- the reefs sampled had less than tem, particularly within the corals, ture prey and assimilate solid mat - incorporate them into living matter position and in the dynamics and ten percent cover. where the symbiosis between the ter containing nitrogen. whereby it enters the food-web, resilience of the ecosystems. For

73 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED NOAA Fisheries Service has listed elkhorn, Acropora palmata (right) and stag- horn corals Acropora ecology cervicornis (far right) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act

example, the Carribbean has only In the Caribbean, 28 percent of the number of fish species and 14 percent of the several critical functional number of coral species found groups are missing or on the Great Barrier Reef. This represented by only a is a striking difference, which is largely down to a biogeographic handful of species legacy of the evolutionary history NOAA of isolation and loss of taxa in the Caribbean basin. This leaves the Carribbean reefs much more vun- Guilds & Functional Today, many areas have effec- in the fabric of society and erable to the effects of human groups tively lost not only these two spe- all taking part in the flow of impacts and possible catastroph- cies, but also two critical function- the economy. If one goes

ic phase shifts. It is time to introduce a bit of al groups and two major shallow- out of business, there are NOAA terminology. In biology, guilds water reef habitats: the elkhorn others to take over, the are groups of species in a com- palmata zone and the staghorn society doesn’t collapse; it Foureye butterflyfish (Chaetodon capistratus) in a colony of staghorn coral. Some munity that exploit the same set cervicornis zone. For fishes, the adapts. You find another buttterflyfishes feed primarily on corals by carefully picking individual polyps off the of resources in a similar manner, composition of functional groups bakery if the one on the colony. The presence of butterflyfishes has been proposed as a means to assess the but are not necessarily closely on Caribbean reefs is also mark- corner goes out of business health of a coral reef system; in this role, they are known as an indicator species related taxonomically. In marine edly different from that of the or go to the supermarket ecology, the related buzz term is Great Barrier Reef. Nocturnal and instead. This constitutes the func- to leave. It is the same case with functional group, which denotes diurnal planktivores, in particular, tional in the system. reefs in our case story with the sea Ecosystem resilience is a collection of species performing are greatly under-represented in But if all the bakers close, and urchins, following the depletion of the capacity of an ecosystem a similar function. Fish functional the Caribbean. the supermarket stops stocking fishes. They became the principal to tolerate disturbance without groups are generally synonymous bread, and it is essential to your herbivores on many Caribbean collapsing into a qualitatively with guilds of species from differ- In 2003, more than half the survival, then what do you do? reefs, and they prevented the different state that is controlled ent trophic levels within a food You can have a town full of other rapid phase shift to dominance by a different set of processes. chain (for example, predators and reefs sampled on the Great sorts of stores, but you can’t buy by macro-algae that was precipi- herbivores), reflecting their role as Barrier Reef had less than bread at a bookstore or a plumb- tated by the die-off of Diadema. a major conduit for the flow of er’s. That’s when you have a Scrapers directly remove algae energy on reefs. 10 percent cover. high-diversity system with limited Functional Groups and sediment by close cropping, In the Caribbean, several redundancy in critical functional & Resilience facilitating settlement, growth critical functional groups are High diversity undoubtedly pro- groups. You move to another and survival of coralline algae missing or represented by vides the potential for functional town—or die. Three functional groups play dif- and corals. only a handful of species. redundancy. However, even in And this is the problem for ferent and complementary roles There are, for example, no high-diversity systems redundancy many small villages in Europe. in preconditioning reefs to permit Grazers remove seaweed, reduc- three-dimensional bottle- in critical functional groups can They hang on while all their shops recovery of corals. These three ing coral overgrowth and shading brush species and just one be limited. What does this mean close, one by one, since they groups—bioeroders, scrapers and by macro-algae. species of staghorn coral and in plain language? Let’s look at can’t cope with the competition grazers—are a critical source of one tall, tabular coral, elkhorn. a metaphor: Human cities, towns from elsewhere. Once they lose both resilience and vulnerability The extent to which reefs possess Importantly, these are the domi- and villages. In a big city—the their last supermarket, school, to phase shifts. these functional groups is central nant habitat-creating functional diverse and healthy coral reef— post office, pharmacy, bakery— to their capacity to resist phase groups on healthy reefs in both the there are many players perform- which together constitute a form Bioeroding fishes remove dead shifts, regenerate and retain criti- Indo-Pacific and Caribbean. ing the same roles in parallel. of economical functional group— corals exposing the hard, reef cal functions in the face of distur- There are many bakers, smiths, the town starts to die as it stops matrix for settlement of coralline bance. A key element in resisting Batfish are herbivores that help etc., all having a functional part functioning, and people have algae and corals. phase shifts to degraded alter- keep reefs clean of algae and instrumental in reef recovery 74 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED nate states is the maintenance The isolation of oceanic reefs

of successful larval colonization renders them particularly vulner- by the full range of coral func- able to loss of local broodstocks. tional groups characteristic of the On degraded reefs, the local loss region. of brood stocks is likely to select

If coral reefs are to resist phase against self-seeding species and shifts after disturbance, it is to shift the taxonomic composition imperative that critical functional of recruits in favour of those with groups of fishes, corals and other longer planktonic durations, with taxa are actively managed and potentially far-reaching conse- sustained. quences for community structure. ����������������� ��� Meeting the challenge Much has been lost, and some coral reef management. If they If coral reefs are to resist of it forever, but much remains to are adequately enforced, NTAs be saved. Management of func- provide a spatial refuge from har- phase shifts after disturbance, tional groups represents a radical vesting. Importantly, such protec- it is imperative that critical departure from previous manage- tion may also permit critical func- ment philosophies. For example, tional groups to persist, and thus functional groups of fishes, wise management of herbivorous contribute to local ecosystem corals and other taxa are fishes can facilitate the regen- resilience. eration of reefs after large-scale However, even the largest NTAs actively managed and disturbances such as bouts of in the world are not self-sustaining, sustained. bleaching or disease that are because they are still too small impossible to regulate locally. relative to the scale of natural represented by a single species. As But it is imperative to scale up and human disturbances, and to explained above, in these systems management and governance the dispersal distances of many even minor changes in biodiversity ������������������������������������� systems to secure the future of larvae and migrating adults. The can have a major impact. ■ functional groups and their roles rate of establishment and size of in supporting the resilience of NTAs as a tool for resilience man- coral reefs. Also the management agement needs to be hugely of no-take areas (NTAs)—where increased. The expansion of NTAs Acknowledgements fishing and other human activities in 2004 from five percent to 33 Substantial parts of this article is a are prohibited—are an increas- percent of the Great Barrier Reef popularisation that rests heavily on ingly prevalent approach to Marine Park in Australia, with a Confronting the Coral Reef Crisis by parallel focus on improving water D.R. Bellwood, T.P. Hughes, C. Folke and M. Nyström in Nature, volume 429 quality, provides a good model. “Today, a new generation Choosing the right of Caribbean researchers areas to protect ������������� and managers may never Hotspots, areas of exceptional have seen a decent stand of species richness, are one of the most frequently identified targets Caribbean Acropora coral, for the protection of marine eco- a manatee or a large shark, systems. However, there are sev- eral lines of evidence to suggest nor can they remember that cool spots, areas of low spe- the destruction wrought in cies richness, are more vulner- able. Low-diversity reefs, such the 1970s by a million sea as in the Caribbean Basin, ���������������� urchins per kilometre of the Eastern Pacific and many high-latitude or remote locations coastline.” in the Indo-Pacific have low ���� ��������� �������������� ������� ���� ���������� ��������� ����������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������� ����� ����� ������ �������� ����� ���� ����� ������������ ��� ���� D.R. BELLWOOD ET AL functional redundancy where ���������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� functional groups may be ������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������

75 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED THE FACTS AND VIEW POINTS IN THIS SECTION ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS POINT & CLICK OF X-RAY MAG. ITEMS PRESENTED IN THIS SECTION HAVE NOT BEEN TESTED BY X-RAY MAG STAFF, NOR ARE THE ITEMS WARRANTED. INFORMATION PROVIDED IS ON BOLD LINKS CONDENSED FROM MANUFACTURERS’ DESCRIPTIONS. TEXTS ARE USUALLY EDITED FOR LENGTH, CLARITY AND STYLE. LINKS ACTIVE AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION

Super protection for divers having fun under the sun

Edited by Gunild Symes Sun Protection & Body Care All photos are courtesy of the manufacturers

Aloe Up Aloe Up Pro Sport SPF 30 Sunscreen was specifically developed to meet the rigorous demands of a diver’s lifestyle. Based with 35 percent Pure Aloe Vera Gel, this highly water resistant sunscreen lasts up to eight hours and is certified biodegradable and reef friendly. Available in a 4oz and 1oz. Aloeup.com

Sport Cosmetics by Chung Shi is a special line pro- duced by Tanja Lang Cosmetics for the sportive woman. Has Aloa Vera as a hydrating agent. The Ahhhhh... Massage Sports Women Cosmetics packet includes: Sport Women Skin Re-Balancer, Sport Women Beauty BTS 3 is a pure massage cream containing antioxi- shower, Sport Women Energizing Gel, Sport Women dant vitamins E and C in a base of mineral salts— Leg Relaxation Gel, and Sport Woman Cool Starter sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium—from Gel. Price: €29.00 www.hartslagmetershop.nl Tuscany. To aid recuperation, it also contains free-chain amino acids. Serious athletes use EcoLips it for daily massage in order to remove ten- Sport SPF30 with Eco Clip sion and muscular fatigue caused by hard is perfect for divers since it is training over a long period of time. According designed for extreme outdoor sports to the manufacturers, BTS 3 is the most widely enthusiasts. It protects your lips under the rough- used sports massage cream in Italy. To restore est conditions, keeping the sun out and the moisture muscular equilibrium, apply it during regular in. Get 30 times your skin’s natural ability to protect itself massage treatments. Aids in achieving high from the sun’s UV rays on your most vulnerable features, your performance. Price: €16 lips, with SPF 30 sun protection. The aluminum carabiner clip is an ideal way to remember care about your lips. Clip it to your gear, belt loop, A delicate shower gel with a fresh scent, BTS keychain, backpack, or anywhere for a fast Eco Lips fix. Contains moisturising Doccia is intended for athletes that shower organic vegetable oils and healing organic herbs. All-natural formulas and often and need a product that is gentle on hair certified organic ingredients ensure protection from all the harsh elements: and skin. Available in several scents for discrimi- sun, wind, and cold. (The Carabiner is not for climbing and the clip colour nating tastes. Price: €6.80 www.btssport.com may vary.) Price: £3.50 www.ecolips.com

76 X-RAY MAG : 11 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Smith MHC With a name inspired by adventures at 5,280 feet, the MHC is the newest cosmetics addition to Smiths growing metal collection. In this 8-base lens curve piece the standard stuff you expect from Smith Optics is all there: optical grade UV Protection metal-frame construction, Tapered Lens Technology (TLT) Carbonic Lenses, stainless steel hinges, 100% UV A/B/C protection and adjustable silicone nose & Sunglasses pads for a custom fit. And of course, the MHC is loaded with details that make it pure Smith, including custom acetate temple tips with an inlayed logo, laser etched Smith wordmark, and pad-printed MHC on the lens front. Available frame and lens combinations include Silver with Polarized Gray ($99), Gold with Brown ($80), or Blue with Platinum Mirror ($80). Visit Smith Optics at Smithoptics.com

Dirty Dog Wetglasses “Tube” Dirty Dog Wetglasses with Hydrophobic Green Polarised PC lenses, Superstrong TR90 frame and headstrap to keep the glasses on are ideal for active divers. Hydrophobic coating is a state of the art lens coating that causes water to bead and run off with a similar effect to that of old watercoating sprays on carpets and fabrics. Hypo-allergenic flexible plas- tic frames are stress-resistant, strong yet lightweight with a snug fit around the face for optimum comfort and maximum protection from glare. Decenterised impact-resistant distortion-free polycarbonate lenses provide 100% protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays and 70% infrared (heat) protection. Superb visibility into the water. Comes with cloth pouch and protective case. Price: GB£45.00 www.dirtydog.com

Body Glove Polarized Sunglasses Hanauma, Shiny Solid Black, Smoke Polarized. Price: $30.00 USD www.bodyglove.com

UV Protection for Kids Junior surf brand Lion in the Sun stocks sun protective swimwear for children, teens and adults. The fabric all rates UPF50+, and styles Dive Shades include one and two piece surf suits, rash The GRAND CAYMAN II is the newest style to be added to vests and boardies, sun hats and swim jack- the Dive Shades series. It features a .75mm lens and a soft sili- ets. The fabric is top quality, fast drying Italian cone nose piece for comfort. Available in 4 different frame colors. lyra. Secure online shopping and fast, free Crystal Gradient Brown shown here. Combines good looks, superior eye pro- delivery from www.lioninthesun.com tection and value. New Dive Shades Neoprene Sunglass Retainer also available at: www.diveshades.com

Equator Sun offers an extensive range of excellent quality UV protec- tive swimwear for all ages, includ- Tough T’s ing stinger suits, long-sleeve rash A typical 100 % cotton T-shirt has a sun protection rating of only SPF 6, far below shirts and swim leggings. The fabric the recommended level of SPF 15. Solar Protective Factory’s breathable 100% provides excellent sun protection cotton t-shirts are the only totally cotton shirts certified by independent laborato- of UPF50+ and is durable, cool, soft, ry tests to exceed both AATCC and ASTM standards—the U.S testing and labeling quick drying and is suitable for a organizations—earning a UV protection rating of UPF 40-50+, which is the highest wide range of watersports. Equater possible. SPF® co-founder, Terry Breese says, “Our SPF® shirt looks like a T-shirt and Sun is a UK based business. feels like a T-shirt, but when it comes to blocking the sun’s dangerous UV rays, it’s www.equatorsun.com more like a coat of .” www.SunProtectionCenter.com

77 X-RAY MAG : 11 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED cosmetics Skin & Hair Care

Kiwi Products of New Zealand offer the best in skin and hair care using the natural resourc- es and ingredients found on the beautiful islands. Envigorating multi-colored Mud & Mineral Rock Soap con- tains pure Rotorua Thermal Mud from the geothermal area of Rotorua, 6.80 NZD. Thermal Mud Soap is a gentle rich-lathering soap with lost of thermal mud for deep cleansing and enrich- Cool off with Skyn Iceland ing your skin, 40g, 4.90 NZD. Get the goodness of Kiwi in Kiwifruit In Iceland—the land of balance and harmony, pris- Shampoo & Conditioner for shiny, vibrant hair, 13.80 NZD. tine, unspoiled nature and clean water and air—the term “skyn” translates to “senses” in English. Skyn Ice- Products with Paua! land wants to point out the direct link between the Paua Deep Down Nourishing Creme: luxurious, therapeutic, reju- senses and how your skin looks and feels, especially venating, nourishing, highly enriched with marine vitamins and when overloaded by stress. Winner of this year’s minerals—helps slow down the visable signs of ageing, 15.40 NZD. Indie Award for innovation, the beauty industry’s John Masters Organics Paua & Sea Kelp Soap with Paua Abalone Extract and Sea Kelp highest honor, Skyn Iceland is the only skincare line John Masters Organics hair, face and skin care prod- for the moisturising and healing of your skin, 10.40NZD. specifically formulated to counteract the detrimen- ucts use no harsh chemicals or artificial colour. Take Exhilarating Paua Facial Scrub Sea & Sand Stimulating Facial tal effects of chronic stress on skin. Try the Antidote three essential products on your next dive trip in this Scrub combines collogen and allantoin with SPF18 Mineral Sunscreen with Biospheric Complex nifty travel set, which includes Lavender Hydrating natural marine protein, vitamins, minerals (anti-oxidants Arctic Cloudberry Seed oil, Red Mist for Skin & Hair, Green Tea & Rose Hydrating Face and trace elements found in Paua extract. Cranberry Seed oil, Butterfly Bush and Thyme Serum, Lip Calm. Regularly a US$51 value. On sale Thoroughly cleanses skin and removes dead extracts; Icelandic glacial water infused with now for US$40.00 cells leaving your complexion glowing,14.40 minerals and Angelica Archangelica—an Ice- NZD. www.kiwiproducts.co.nz landic medicinal herb) US$55, Hydro Cool Firm- Rosemary & Peppermint Detangler has a luxuri- ing Eye Gels $45, Angelica Lip Repair $15 and ous light organic conditioning formula. Detangles Let’s face it, the award-winning Stress Defense Cream $100. and conditions without weighing down your hair. mud is great for skin www.skyniceland.com Contains protein and vitamins for strength and Mud for Men skin care line has been especially devel- shine. Hair growth is stimulated by rosemary. Great oped with men and mud in mind. The sulphur content of the Rotorua thermal for dry or fine hair. Only high quality, 100% certified mud used as an ingredient actively kills bacteria on the skin, assisting in the pre- organic ingredients. vention or elimination of dreadful acne. Try Mud for Men Moisturiser with SPF15 sunblock—it’s enriched with Rotorua mud to condition and hydrate Herbal Cider Hair Rinse & Clarifier revitalizes your the skin against daily environmental damage,15.40 NZD; Mud for hair leaving it clean and fresh by eliminating Men Aftershave Balm enriched with Rotorua Thermal Mud to help residue build-up including lime from hard water. heal and sooth razor stressed and sensitive skin, 14.40 NZD; Mud for Sebum and product build-up is removed by a Men Facial Scrub with pumice particles and Rotorua Thermal Mud delightful mix of organic apple cider vinegar with to deep cleanse and exfoliate, for a smooth and healthy appear- wild cherry bark, nettles and rosemary. Lemon oil ance, 15.40 NZD; Mud for Men Soap with removes unwanted oil from the scalp. Nettles give Rotorua Thermal Mud provides a natural the hair a wonderful thickness and shine. This unique cleanser for the face and body, 7.95 organic rinse neutralises the scalp’s PH level—espe- NZD. Give all four in the Mud For Men cially good after swimming in a chlorinated pool. Gift Box II, 59.50 NZD. www.johnmasters.com www.kiwiproducts.co.nz

78 X-RAY MAG : 11 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED mermaid Dive Diva Beauty matters Edited by Gunild Symes Mascara & Hair Advisory Text by Cindy Ross. Photos courtesy of the manufacturers

As you’re gazing into the eyes in rainy Seattle, as GirlDiver does, you and dry out the hair’s cuticle. Before div- GIRLDIVER’S TOP 5 WATERPROOF of your buddy, hanging at your should wear these only when embarking ing, wet down hair with cool tap water, MASCARA’S FOR SCUBA DIVING: into the deep blue. which will seal the cuticle. Hair is like 15’ safety stop for three min- Now, onto the test. The mascara’s in a sponge; it can only absorb so much #1 COVERGIRL utes, what is he looking at? Is it this trial were chosen based on range of water. If it’s wet to begin with, it won’t Professional Waterproof Mascara the brilliant sparkle eminating price, manufacturer and convenience. absorb as much damaging chlorine and Glide on: 4.5/5 from your eyes as the overhead These were each tested on five dives saltwater. Wearability: 5/5 in the chilly waters of the Puget Sound. Swear by leave-in conditioner and Removal: 3.5/5 light pierces the waves? Or is GirlDiver likes to keep the water out of never leave for the dive without it. it the black-around-the-eye her mask, so full mask flood and clear Protecting skin with sunscreen is good #2 MAYBELLINE raccoon look, causing him to exercises were not performed during sense, and the same goes for hair. If you Illegal Lengths Mascara muse about the possibility that the test. The removal of the mascaras can find a conditioner with a sunscreen Glide on: 5/5. were done the night of the dive, not the in it, all the better, as the UV rays will Wearability: 5/5 you did indeed suffer a mask morning after, so sleeping in your make- turn your hair a brassy shade. Also, using Removal: 3.5/5 squeeze on your descent? up could skew the results. See sidebar some hair crème or pomade as a con- (right) for GirlDiver mascara test results. ditioning barrier will reduce the amount #3 MAYBELLINE GirlDiver has searched for the answers to of salt that can adhere to the hair fol- Full & Soft Mascara the best waterproof mascaras. She has Hoods & Hair licles. Glide on: 4.5/5. asked fellow female divers, looked for Dive Diva’s everywhere have ques- During the dive, if Wearability: 3/5 information online, and tried hit and miss tioned how to tame their wild tresses. you have long hair, Removal: 4/5 with the brands that happened to be in While we know that we aren’t going you’ll want to secure her make-up bag. Some worked, some to look like the Sports Illustrated mod- it before pulling and #4 CLINIQUE didn’t. So, in the quest to provide proof els after a dive, we certainly shouldn’t tugging Gentle Waterproof Lash Intensifier positive on waterproof mascara, she surrender to a shaved head either. (Good for a very natural look dove the top recommendations and Saltwater wreaks havoc on our hair —not a lot of length) came up with her own “Top Waterproof leaving a salt residue that depletes the Glide on: 2/5 Mascara’s for Scuba Diving”. hair of it’s natural moisture. Add blow- Wearability: 4.5/5 First, let’s understand what water- ing wind into the equation and the Removal: 4/5 proof mascara is. Water-proof mas- result is split ends and brittle hair that While we may not wear mascara as cara contains synthetic polymers feels like straw. #5 SEPHORA artistically as the model in this TUSA ad that instantly freeze around each Hair care for Girl Divers is three fold. Waterproof Mascara does, diving divas may still find a few lash, creating a water resistant You must treat your hair before you Glide on: 4/5 beauty tips from GirlDiver helpful... barrier. Keep in mind, these subject it to the elements, manage Wearability: 4/5 mascaras will dry out your your hair during the dives, and restore Removal: 5/5 lashes if worn constantly, your hair after the dives. so unless you live Chlorine and saltwater can discolor

Lancome L’Extrême Waterproof Mascara and Estée Lauder Illusionist Waterproof Maximum Mascara

LEFT: Clinique Gentle Waterproof Lash Intensifier; CoverGirl Professional ABOVE: Sephora Waterproof Mascara; Marathon Waterproof Waterproof Mascara Mascara and Remarkable Mascara LEFT: Maybelline Full n’Soft 79 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED mermaid Be entertained ! Be enthralled! Be inspired! matters 6th Celebrate the Sea Festival 21-23 Sep, Philippines 2007

TOP TO BOTTOM: Two DoWraps and three ScubaDoRags give hair good protec- tion from the elements. Lots of styles and colors available. www.dowrap.com and Put a wide-toothed comb in your www.scubadorag.com Save-A-Dive kit, so that you can get through those tangles on your way to the pizza place. Again, if you’ve on your neoprene hood. got some spray in conditioner with Putting hair into a braid or beanie for you, now would be a great time to a series of pony holders night dives add another round to the hair, as it’s keeps hair from becom- (as this will not just been through the dehydration ing caught in the hood. only tame your routine. Using the conditioner tresses but avoid get- Keep your hair trimmed of split before braiding, will ting blood worms ends and use a clarifying shampoo help to hold the tangling in your weekly to keep your hair looking braid in place. You locks). For day use, great. may want to wear a “slap strap”, avail- Even the divas of diving have to Award winners from the World Underwater Pictures a lycra “doo rag” able at most dive stores will treat their locks. “I’m not very good over your hair keep the mask strap from with my hair and don’t think about Festival: International Photographic & Video competitions: before putting catching on your hair. it much,” said from WOW Digital Shoot Out competition : Photographic on your hood. We are told to rinse our her home in Austin, Texas. “When I workshops and seminars with , Michael Alternatively, gear thoroughly after a know I’m going to be in the water, I AW, Scott Tuason, Mathieu Meur and many more. a “shark dive, but any good Girl just coat it with a ton of conditioner, skin” or Diver knows, that beauty comes braid it, and wear it down my wet “titanium” lining before gear rinsing. As soon as pos- suit.” www.CelebratetheSea.com in the hood will also sible, rinse out your hair with fresh Cindy Ross is a dive instructor and ease with removal of water. You may find a fresh water writer dedicated to promoting the Asia Pacific’s Biggest Event of the Sea the hood off at the shower on the boat or at the dive scuba lifestyle for women of all ages end of your dive. site. There are also a myriad of worldwide. For more information, If you’re diving a shampoos made to remove harsh please visit: Girldiver.com ■ tropical destination, elements from your hair at your local Principal Sponsors you may consider a salon. Official Airlines

Official Magazines

Hi Shine Leave-In L’Anza Magic Bullet Conditioner Mist Calling all Underwater Image Makers This deep-penetrating light- A nurishing, vitamin-rich, naturopathic If you have captured a piece of our ocean’s splendor, don’t let your images be like the trees that fall in the woods with no one to hear them. Send your weight mist strengthens your micro-brewed formula from Australia entries now. Our invitation remains open until 21 August 2007, for you to to be part of this prominent event by entering the prestigous international hair from inside the cortex and with keratin and pure silk protein leaves competitions. There are over $50 000 worth of prizes up for grabs. Exceptional quality prizes from sponsors like Rolex, PADI, SEACAM, Dive Silver, the out, instead of just making it hair with an incredible shine and feeling Department of Tourism Philippines and more. There are special dive package holidays for this festival from MV Odyssea 1, Aniloa Resort, Atlantis look healthier on the surface. weightless. To condition and protect your Divers, Asia Divers, Expedition Fleets, Bahura Resort, Minahasa Lagoon to name but a few. Book Now! Awards for in each catergory are: OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT: MERIT OF EXCELLENCE: HONOR OF DISTINCTION: HIGH COMMENDATION. Spray it into your damp or dry hair from environmental stress, spray over The Best Image Maker of the Festival (US$2000 cash prize):The ‘President Grand Award for Highest Achievement’ Entry at www.celebratethesea.com hair and leave it in. Apply prior towel-dried or dry hair. Comb through to styling and blow drying. and finger style your hair. Official host hotel www.lanza.com www.thenaturalsource.com

80 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED KLAUS JOST Recreational anglers have Beer & Bullsharks mal but they have caught three meter sharks In Australia, armchair anglers as much right to be shark tales are catching up to three to in the water as we with nothing more than four Bull sharks per night as do,” explains Jeff they watch TV, relax, Krause, District a cooked pork chop taken and drink Manager of the from the barbeque and Queensland dangled from a simple rod Fisheries Patrol. “People need and reel resting from a sixth to be aware Edited by floor balcony. that sharks Edwin Marcow are in the water and not to go swimming. Captive shark did beer We just have have ‘virgin birth’ Stingrays and Sharks from the to learn to comfort of a cohabit with Female hammerhead sharks chair in their liv- them.” ■ can reproduce without hav- May See in Color ing rooms! ing sex, scientists confirm. The Gold Coast of Australia The evidence comes from Stingrays may see the world in detect prey and avoid preda- is home to a spaghetti myriad Although this may seem a shark at Henry Doorly Zoo in colour rather than be colour tors”. of some 500km of canals, an easy option, the Bull shark Nebraska, which gave birth to blind, which untill now, has been Due to an unfortunate fire at waterways and artificial should not be underestimated. a pup in 2001 despite having the prevailing consensus. A team the Research Station, the findings with elegant villas, homes and Measuring up to three to four Bycatches had no contact with a male. of researchers at the University have been delayed, but they apartment blocks backing meters in length, this blunt-snout- Genetic tests by a team of Queensland, under the direc- hope to repeat these experiments onto the brackish water. With ed, barrel-shaped predator with a of sharks are at from Belfast, Nebraska and tion of Dr Nathan Hart, Professor in the near future. Though the the increasing development fearsome aggression and power, critical levels Florida prove conclusively the Shaun Collin and Professor Justin rays have the apparatus to see in of new homes, new canals are is an apex predator. Responsible At least 7.8 million sharks are killed young animal possessed no Marshall, began behavioural colour, further tests should confirm excavated, and with them, the for the deaths of two bathers off the shores of Southern Africa paternal DNA, Biology Letters tests on Shovelnose Rays and if they could disseminate this col- Bull sharks’ territory and popu- swimming in the canals in 2003 each year by hooks intended for journal reports. Reef sharks at the Heron Island our information. “Knowing more lation has grown exponentially. and a young woman killed near other animals. This by-catch also The type of reproduction Research Station. At the Centre, about ray and shark vision could Recreational anglers have Stradboke Island in 2006, the fear includes some 34,000 sea birds exhibited had been seen the sharks and rays were being eventually help in the design of caught three-meter sharks with among some is that new arrivals and 4,200 sea turtles, according before in bony fish but never trained to associate coloured wetsuits and surfboards to reduce nothing more than a cooked to the Gold Coast will be una- to WWF South Africa and Birdlife in cartilaginous fish such as light with food, and to see if attacks on divers, surfers and pork chop taken from the ware of the potential dangers South Africa. With an estimated sharks. the subjects could distinguish swimmers”. barbeque and dangled from a lurking under this tranquil setting. 6.6 million open-ocean sharks Parthenogenesis, as this between the training colour and Professor Collin added, “The simple rod and reel resting from With growing pressure from (mostly blue and shortfin mako), type of reproduction is a random colour. Susan Theiss, a design of trawler nets could a sixth floor balcony. local game fishing operators to and a further 1.2 million coastal known, occurs when an egg PhD student at the University of potentially be altered to reduce Ranked as the easiest game create the “Bull Shark Classic” sharks (dog sharks) unintentionally cell is triggered to develop as Queensland remarked, “seeing in shark and ray catches”. ■ fishing in the world, architectur- tournament with various prizes for caught in this region by longlines an embryo without the addi- colour could help rays find mates, al student, Saeed Granfar, has the largest shark caught and the and netting, the situation is criti- tion of any genetic material PETER SYMES caught 100 bull sharks since most sharks caught in one day, cal. AW MICHAEL from a male sperm cell. The Blue- his childhood. His technique their future may be bleak. Some estimates for by-catch The puzzle over the ham- Spotted is simple. With a baited line of As mentioned in a previ- merhead birth was reported Maskray chopped eel, he fixes his rod ous Sharktales, the call for the widely in 2001, but it is only has the to a pontoon and sits back “Bull Shark Classic” has regret- SEA SHEPHERD with the emergence of new physical to watch his favourite film, or tably gained momentum in frame- DNA profiling techniques that listen to a CD keeping an ear Queensland, and local anglers work to scientists have now been see col- out for the ratcheting sound of are free to catch and kill as many able to show irrefutably what our vision the line playing out. “It’s defi- bull sharks as they wish. Thankfully, happened. ■ nitely lazy man’s fishing,” said the Fisheries department is Granfar. opposed to any cull. “There have been calls to eradicate the ani- Long line hook UNIVERSAL STUDIOS 81 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Shark fin shop in central Bangkok Sharks die in aquarium —the water was too cold would use are functionally eliminat- Three black tipped reef sharks died ed,” said the co-author of a recent- during their 70-mile move from ly published study, Julia Baum. There Great Yarmouth to their new home are simply not enough sharks in this at the Hunston Sea Life Centre region to keep the environmental in Norfolk. The centre said that the deaths were “almost unprec- balance in check. edented in the Sea Life network Researchers have linked declin- over 100 shark transportations over ing shark numbers with a boom the past 20 years”. Manager Nigel and bust cycle for other marine life Croasdale also added that he was species by allowing more lowly fish “deeply concerned” at the loss. species to flourish in numbers such Tragically, the centre confirmed a skates, rays and smaller sharks. that the water was two degrees The food they predate on—shellfish, Centigrade below the minimum scallop, clam and oyster popula- required for the sharks. Though not tions—are now also in sharp decline. conclusive, this is the likely cause of the sharks’ death. This was due The research suggests that with to human error by a staff member. PETER SYMES the fall of shark populations, the Action has been taken to ensure negative affect it will have further this cannot happen again, includ- are that a hundred million sharks and down the food chain will have far ing a retraining and assessment rays are caught and discarded every reaching consequences. ■ programme for the relevant per- year. Beth Babcock of the University of sonnel” a spokesman said. ■ Florida stated recently, “About a third of the fish caught around the world are discarded as by-catch”. Coupled with an increase in aggressive poaching of Hammerhead and various threatened shark species in protected Colombian waters off the NATIONAL DIGITAL ARCHIVES PROGRAM, . island of Malpelo and in the waters of Balabac in the Philippines, to fuel the demand for shark fin soup in Asia, what links the two separate issues of Changing Fins by-catch or intended catch is that the recent arrest and detention of the Infant Brown-Banded Bamboo sharks caudal fins. Vietnamese poachers caught in the can see a month before they leave Warmer temperatures did Philippines were long lining! their eggs and change their fins as speed up the growth cycle with This problem is not unique to they grow. Working on his Ph.D, thesis one shark hatching after 101 days. Southern Africa, South America, or the graduate student, Blake Harahush, Most other species take between Far East. The dual issues of long lining has made a discovery, which is about several months and two years to and by-catch being discarded is now to be published in the Journal of Fish develop before birth. The findings a world-wide problem. Biology. The sharks showed signs of also discovered that one month There has been a sharp decline in fins at about 53 days. This is about before hatching from their egg Great Shark populations in the Atlantic one third into their hatching period cases, the sharks’ eyes are fully Ocean with eleven species having all of 153 days, though this was variable developed. “It’s still a mystery why but vanished from over fishing. Bull, depending on the incubation period. they develop their eyes so early Dusky and Smooth Hammerhead num- The function of the early development before they hatch,” Professor bers are also in sharp decline accord- of two long fins Harahush believed, Shaun Collin, a fish vision expert, ing to a scientific study. was to circulate fresh water and oxy- stated that the research was use- “I am not using the word extinction gen and clear any waste products ful for identifying the best condi- at this point. The ecological terms we from the egg case. These fins would tions for shark husbandry, which then morph into dorsal, pelvic and could help replenish stocks. ■

82 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Photo & Videography

The biggest advantage: Edited by using long focal lengths Peter Symes from 100 to 200mm & Jason Heller results in a greater dis- tance to the subjects. This is a prerequisite for catching special behaviours of animals. The picture shows a Coral Grouper on the Maldives enjoying the “service” of a cleaner shrimp. Long focal lenses are great tools, but keep in mind, they swallow a lot of light! To work with recommend- ed aperture of 22 or 32, two strobes with guide numbers 16 are neces- sary for 100ASA

By Kurt Amsler MacroMastering Differences of opinion have be academic, though: all Equipment have raged through- we are trying to achieve is Close-up photography under water is not tecnically challenging. Thanks to TTL out history as to where detail and the best angle metering or the immediate feedback close-up photogra- and frame to make the most offered by shooting digital, exposure phy ends and macro of it. Thankfully all underwa- is a piece of cake. Also, all your tried photography begins. ter cameras allows the use and proven techniques that you have learned on dry land works under water For underwater of all the lenses that make as well. photographers this sense when we try and get Within the scope of this article, we question tends to close and personal. define macro photography as ranging

83 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Sponsored by Photo & silver Videography

The nice thing about Macro photography is that the subject can be fare to spectacular, exceptional and hard to find. Simple creatures, such as this Polynesian sea urchin, make nice pictures. With the Macro camera, pho- tographers do not have to swim mile and miles to find subjects to shoot. Transform your eyes to “short distance” and be patient enough to investi- gate one single rock or coral head. Most the time, you’ll find more subjects than your film can capture

between a reproduction ratio even a necessity, when attempt- from 1:3 to 1:1. A 1:3 ratio means ing to photograph shy creatures. that the subject’s reproduction of film is a third of the actual size. Technique Likewise, a 1:1 ratio means the There are some distinct differ- that the subject gets reproduced ences between extreme close-up on film in its actual size. To take photography and other tech- pictures in the macro range, we niques. Due to the long extension need special macro lenses and seen in macro lenses the distance a corresponding flat port for the to CCD-Sensor or film is increased cinema of dreams underwater housing. and this drastically reduces light Macro lenses can usually focus transmission. continuously from infinity down to Owners of TTL strobes (for their maximum reproduction ratio. film cameras) have distinct Alternatively, the standard lens advantage on this point as they (around 50mm focal lens) can be don’t need to calculate how used in conjunction with distance to compensate for this reduc- rings. However, distance rings tion. Automatic strobes for dig- No other technique in UW-photogra- restrict the lens to a certain focus ital photography, on the other phy gives more possibilities to play with range close up, and as they can’t hand, does not have this impor- light. This picture shows the embryo of a be removed during a dive, this tant feature anymore, because Mediterranean cat shark. The females option has its limitations. A “classic the photographer can immedi- of this species are one of the few sharks macro lens” has a focal length of ately control the exposure of the who place their eggs on gorgonian corals 50 to 60mm and f1:2.8. image—particularly, by checking where they remain alone until the baby sharks hatch. To make the baby shark vis- Focal lengths of 100 or 105mm the histogram, which is the most ible, the slave strobe was placed behind or 180 or 200mm don’t result in a accurate method. www.seacam.com the egg larger reproduction ratio but ena- Focus can also be a chal- bles the photographer to keep a lenge in close-up photography, greater distance to the subject. with the depth of field drop- This can be a distinct advantage, ping away exponentially as the

84 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED photographynews Sponsored by

This photograph of a rare red fire-coral, only found north of the Maldives, shows the effect of double strobe. On the picture on the left, only one strobe was used. The colours seem good, and against the black background, the subject may appear nice and contrasty. But com- paring it to the second picture, the enthusiasm is soon gone. The difference is day and night! Here, a small slave strobe was used halfway from the back and top. The subject now appears less flat, as the second light source sharpens the edges and show small details.

or sensor, it becomes obvious that we will Wet Diopters need a lot of light for a correct exposure. Owners of famous Seacam housings may To some extent, the short distance to use the so-called, “Wet-Diopters”. These the object will compensate for this as will are additional lenses mounted on the the using a 100ASA setting. It is possible to outside of the port to give a magnifica- use a strobe with a guide number of only tion from 1.5 : 1 up to almost 3.2 : 1 by and, as they are attached outside the 11 with a 50 or 60mm lens. However, with adding them together. This system has plan port, they can be removed if not great advantages in comparison com- needed even during a dive. pare to converters as no light gets lost In the field, it is far better to use two or

To achieve a blue background—rare This mode focus on a point in the finder to see in macro—look for subjects, like selected by the photographer much this wire-coral, which can be photo- faster and more precise than the eye. graphed against the surface. Don’t Put your camera on servo-autofocus change the recommended smallest (position S). In this mode, you can make aperture of 22 or 32, but bracket with sure the selected point stays sharp while Wetdiopter on a Seacam housing long shutter speeds from 1/15’’ to 1’’ of a second. For proper composing, you compose the frame. Wait for the a diagonal placing of subjects is most right moment and then release the shut- a 100mm or 105mm light, output needs times the best solution ter. If necessary, small adjustments can to be double that. In these instances, it be made by moving the camera forward is better using not one but two macro- or back. strobes, as still longer focal lengths photographer enters the macro range. require even more light if one is to keep Focusing manually to place the few mil- Exposure the aperture down at a f22 or f32 set- limetres of focus at the right distance Short depth of focus is also the reason ting. The same applies when we use can be challenging and result in many why we stop down the aperture of our tele-converters, which double the focal close misses. This is especially true when macro lens as far as possible to com- length of a standard lens for reproduc- light conditions are low. Therefore, a low pensate. Macro lenses from all the major tion ratios up to 2.5 : 1. power focus light can come in handy. brands therefore allow stopping down to Once more, experience shows the bud- f32. But when we combine this with the Macro photography is a perfect tool ding underwater macro photographer loss of light due to increased distance for being creative. Lines, patterns and is best served by relying on auto-focus. between lens elements and film plane, structures are great for composing pictures in the way you want

85 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED 10 Macro Tips works in TTL Mode without a to have the pre- 7 Proper buoyancy, diving 9 In contrast to super wide cable, the strobe can be fired pare with your prescription. gear, which fits to the body angel photography in which 1 Very important is the isola- from any direction the pho- and exact weights, are pre- manual exposure definitely tion or exemption of the main tographer wants or the sub- 5 Your camera set up has to requisites for successful macro brings better results, macro subject. Macro photos that ject needs. be “handy”! This means that photos. To hover in one spot, TTL is the key to success! make the onlooker search even with one or two strobes, stabilized only with two finger- Everything fits perfectly to this for the main feature are usu- 3 Due to the very small depth the camera has to lie in your tips on a dead piece of coral, electronically device—short ally boring. The main subject of field—which is decreasing hands absolutely balanced will be easy then. Good div- distances and small picture should be recognized in a dramatically the closer you and weightless. If so, you will ing skills and fitness will bring angels. It does not matter second! This can be easily get—it is necessary to set the be able to hover a long time advantages in any situation. how many strobes you’ve achieved by shooting the lens always on aperture 22, in one spot, holding the cam- got, all the shots are proper subjects against the water or or if possible, on 32. Consider era without straining while you 8 Owners of amphibious cam- exposed. a faraway background. Also, that macro lenses “swallow” wait for that small gobyfish to eras such as NIKONOS or firing the strobe from the top plenty of light! Make sure your open its mouth. MOTORMARINE have to 10 Using a modern SLR camera, can keep backgrounds in the strobe is strong enough, or use the so-called, “Macro- auto focus can be used in dark. choose 100 ASA film rather 6 Patience is the main ingredi- frames”. These frames have 95 percent of all underwater than 50 ASA. ent here, as we can’t direct to used because it is just not photo situations—especially 2 In no other technique is play- the animals we’re photo- possible to estimate precise in macro where it works per- ing with light so important 4 Macro photographers may graphing. And sometimes, distances by a centime- fectly: Set your camera on as in macro. One strobe never swim more than 50 you need quite a lot of it tre and have the focus in “S” (servo autofocus); Let the above the camera fits most meters during a dive. Macro while waiting for a snail to the right place. If you can camera focus on the subject; situations. Two strobes, for subjects have to be observed arrive in that perfect spot... unscrew it, or after gaining Hold the focus by keeping the example one frontal and one by searching a small area Not to mention, it is NOT the enough experience, take off shutter halfway down, or use side light, will change the cm by cm. A small torch helps way of a serious photogra- both of the frames’ sidebars, the AFL key; Compose the picture dramatically. Using a anyone who requires “read- pher to place snails and other it will help to approach sub- picture; Shoot! ■ SEA&SEA YS-30 strobe, which ing-glasses”. It is a good idea slow moving animals by hand! jects more easy.

three smaller macro strobes rather than are much easier to handle and position. Light and composition Two fingertips placed on a dead prerequisite for underwater photography. one single industrial strength unit. The Wide-angle strobes are built for greater The classic approach to macro light- „Good behaviour” in the reef doesn’t dedicated macro strobes come with the distances and have a lower colour tem- ing is full frontal. The strobe is mounted bit of coral should be all it takes to only benefit the environment but it’ll appropriate colour temperature of 5600K perature, which leads to orange/red right above the camera, a position that brace for camera positioning make you popular with the dive guides. for accurate colour reproduction and hues on close range. assures perfect lighting for most situa- Remember, they all have special places tions. With two strobes, a combination of framed by blue water. (To keep it blue away from the beaten track through the frontal and side lighting can be used to shoot up toward the surface and use reef - places they only take divers they accent certain features, i.e. side lighting long exposures—1/15” to 1/8”) trust. ■ to accentuate the gills of a nudibranch, or frontal and top lighting to bring out Etiquette the spines of a stone fish. To accomplish Even when shooting positioning, the strobe units need to be close-ups, environ- small and mounted to short double joint- mentally conscious ed arms. underwater pho- As important as lighting is the isolation tographers avoid of the main subject. Macro photos that any contact with make the onlooker search for the main reef or rock. Two feature are usually boring. It is therefore fingertips placed important to emphasize the main feature on a dead bit of by setting it apart from foreground and coral should be all background. Patience is the main ingre- it takes to brace for dient here as we can’t direct the animals camera position- we’re photographing. And sometimes ing while the diver As important as lighting you need quite a lot of it while waiting rests suspended in is the isolation of the for a snail to arrive in that perfect spot... the water. Good A keen eye can help, too, locating the diving skills and fit- main subject single anemone in a reef that is perfectly ness therefore are a

86 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Call For Entries Big Enough For Any Appetite! DivePhotoFest Toshiba DivePhotoFest is proud to A massive new portable drive has hit the market with a staggering announce its innaugural photog- capacity to hold 57,000 digital photos. raphy contest. In partnership with Toshiba has launched a 200GB portable external hard drive measur- its sponsors Ikelite and Scuba ing in at a compact 2.5-inches with a fast USB 2.0 interface. The hard Diver Australasia, prizes range drive can store up to 57,000 digital photos, 88 DVD videos or 23 high- from underwater flashlights to definition videos. magazine subscriptions. The con- Delivering the highest capacity of any back-up solution in the com- test is open to all amateur under- pact 2.5-inch class, the drive comes with an easy to use operating sys- water photographers and to tem, which is click-free, switch-free and button-free. Simply set up your those who register as a member back-up parameters, connect the drive and relax. of the Dive Photo Fest website. Compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems with a The first competiton will not Hi-Speed USB cer- have a theme but will host only tification for use of Custom Designed one categor—Macro. Photoshop the drive in any USB Protective Cases and image manipulation for any port configuration, submitted image are accept- the drive also comes able. with a convenient For those who shoot four-foot USB cable. topside as well as The closing date for entries is underwater—and June 15th, 2007. Winners will be Available in 200GB that’s most of us— announced on June 25th, 2007. 160GB 120GB and there is an exciting 100GB. new product on the Check out the rules here: market to protect your www.divephotofest.com ToshibaDirect.com camera from the extremes of what Mother Nature throws at us. Seattle based Made Products has announced a new line of camera protection called Camera Armor. Made from a protective skin of silicone, this shield is bespoke engineered to fit a specific make and model of camera like a glove. Just like an underwater housing, it is made to fit a precise make and model of camera, so the same principles apply here. ������������ Incorporating shock-absorbing materials, which fit over the most delicate parts of the camera and LCD polycarbonate shield, Camera Armor also sells the optional lens armor made from elastomeric materi- als, which are reversible and can fit over a lens up to 85mm in circumference. All controls are accessible through the protective shield, and ergonomic han- dling of the camera is not affected. Shooting above water in wet, dry and dusty envi- ronments with Camera Armor fitted to your camera will bring peace of mind, without that back of the mind nagging “what if”? Camera Armor protective cases are available for:

Canon 5D, 30D, 400D and Rebel XTI Nikon D70, D70s, D80, D40, D200, Sony Alpha A100

(no webiite found)

87 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED technical Images of divers courtesy of Silent Diving Systems matters

Column by Cedric Verdier Safety Margins with a CCR There used to be a time when there was is not an no safety margin in any activity that the exact science human being wanted to participate in. In a merciless prehistoric world, on a Let’s put it this way—cooking pasta, daily basis, the cave men were hunting launching sky rockets or diving with a with stones and sticks, a large variety of rebreather all share a common point: predators the size of a truck, expecting Nothing is ever guaranteed to work. to feed a hungry family. Then, Winchester gave men the ability to kill wild animals pO2 readings are not accurate while staying at a comfortable distance, Even properly calibrated, oxygen sensors without risking their lives. Safety margin fail to show the same oxygen content in was born. a loop. Their age, their chemical properties O2 exposure limits are variable As recreational divers, we were taught or simply the humidity When dealing with oxygen exposure, to plan for realistic safety margins. One in the loop, all work the sources come across quite of the first rules states that you should to limit the accuracy vague. The NOAA tables are always start your final ascent with at of the pO2 readings. based on empirical data. The Decompression calculations least 50 bar/500 psi in your cylinder. As a Even the famous vot- calculations for repetitive oxygen are approximate. In this area, the technical diver, however, you suddenly ing logic is a pathetic exposures are more than unclear. motto seems to be: “Nobody knows”. discovered that this safety margin wasn’t attempt to get a little Even the maximum pO2 could Everything is as confusing as Sherlock enough when doing deeper dives with closer to the exact change from one day to the next Holmes and his riddles. A lot of theories, required decompression, or even worse, p02. And it becomes in the same person, as shown algorithms, procedures and decompres- when diving in an overhead environ- even worse when the by Kenneth Donald during the sion curves are discussed and experi- ment. So, as rebreather divers, what kind calibration is improp- Second World War. mented every day by “guinea pig” of safety margin do we have? erly done. technical divers. During a dive at 60m,

88 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED • An incorrect fO2 in the oxygen used for calibration

• An incorrect fO2 in the air used for cal- ibration; in case of a two-point calibra- What tion, any excessive pressure in the loop could lead to during the calibration. This pressure is generally caused by an obstruction ? on the flow rate (closed mouthpiece, When it comes to rebreath- stuck OPV, backpressure caused by er diving, is the an analyzer connected to the loop, bad guy—a kind of Darth etc.) Vader on steroids. The upper limit of pO2 is clearly more dan- But it could also be a false pO2 reading gerous than the lower. People on the handsets. Most of the time, the can fear and its lethal problem seems to be an old cell or a cur- consequences, but it takes time to rent-limited cell. happen. High pO2 is sometimes just a a matter of seconds. 2. An user error friend of mine missed The three main reasons for having a high • A fast descent will create an O2 spike one hour deco and simply level of oxygen in a rebreather loop are: stayed at the surface, expecting signs • A wrong setpoint will unnecessarily and symptoms of DCS that never came. 1. A problem with the electronics increase the O2 content in the loop, Is that individual variation luck, or a One of the causes is a bad calibration. It for instance, selecting a high setpoint huge safety margin implemented in the could be due to: before descending decompression softwares? • A different level Offgassing could be impaired by of humidity in the a lot of factors contributing to DCS gas one uses for Age, fitness level, illness, PFO, body fat or calibration, com- even history of DCS—pick your choice. pared to what How could a complex phenomenon like could be found inert gas off-gassing could realistically be in the loop during mimicked by a mathematical equation? the dive. Add one or all of these contributing fac- tors, and you get something that looks • An incorrect as complex as understanding the graf- fiti made by a gang of drunken ghetto when the sensors rappers on a wall just before a nuclear are calibrated explosion. in altitude, if the So, if everything is so complex, how user indicates could we possibly understand what that it’s done at could happen to a rebreather diver from sea level a physiological standpoint? If the pO2 in the loop is too high, how could we predict Terms: the threshold of the oxygen DCS: toxicity? If the pO2 is too PFO (Patent foramen ovale) low, will the decompression is a persistent opening in the requirement planned be in wall of the heart, which did accordance with what the not close completely after diver actually experienced? birth. Often goes unnoticed.

89 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED • An excessive manual pO2 One of these factors is Setpoint last part of the ascent. On the other hand, a lower pO2 oxygen content. The user may not With (Heliair 10/52) as dilu- injection selection (user error). In technical The reason for such a practise setpoint gives a lot of benefits: be aware that one of the O2 cells ent: If your pO2 is 1.3 at 80m, diving, is all about could be found in the fear of is current-limited and has some your fraction of inert gases in the • A wrong diluent selection, if the safety margins. So, why don’t we hypoxia (solenoid stuck closed Lower Oxygen Exposure: difficulties reaching a high pO2. loop should be around 86 per- oxygen content in the diluent is plan for some safety factors when or rapid ascent). It could also A low pO2 in the loop during the During the calibration process, all cent. If the setpoint is 1.0, this fN2 too high for the depth planned we choose the Setpoint for deep be seen as a way to decrease working part of the dive helps to cells are supposed to reach 1.0, becomes 89 percent. CCR dives? Why do rebreather decompression obligation. But keep the oxygen exposure quite but nothing—except an O2 flush For a 30-minute dive, the • An oxygen exposure exceed- divers mostly use high pO2 set- the main reason may be the fact reasonable. Therefore, the body’s at depth—proves that the cell decompression requirement is: ing the physiological limits points? that 1.3 is the default setpoint natural ability to deal with high can read a higher value. A poll on the Rebreather World on the Inspiration/Evolution, the pO2 levels will be saved for the So much for the benefits of 3. A problem with the gas supply forum showed that more than most popular units on the market. latter part of the dive and the using a lower setpoint, but what Setpoint at Setpointdepth duringAscent deco time half of the CCR divers use pO2 For some divers, it’s simply easier decompression stops. about decompression? 1.3 1.3 141 min • Using a wrong gas, if the O2 setpoints higher than 1.2 bar to use the default setpoint than 1.0 1.0 218 min or diluent tanks haven’t been throughout the dive, sometimes modifying it every time the elec- Time to deal with emergency: With air as diluent: 1.0 1.3 157 min analysed increasing this setpoint during the tronics is turned on. A lower setpoint gives more time If your pO2 is 1.3bar at 40m, to deal with an increasing level of the actual fraction of N2 in the With the proper setpoint selec- • An O2 leak in the loop, either oxygen in the loop. Whatever the loop should be around 73 per- tion (low setpoint at depth and because of the solenoid stuck Poll Results: What’s your pO2 for deep dives? cause of the problem (mechani- cent. If the setpoint is 1.0, this fN2 higher in the shallows) it’s only in an open position or because cal, electronics, user error), a becomes 80 percent. a 16 minute longer ascent for of a leaking schraeder valve Less than 1.0 for the bottom phase 0.00 % rebreather will always take more For a 60-minute dive, the an almost three hour long dive. 1.0 for the bottom phase 3.39 % time to go above 1.6 bar, if the decompression requirement is So, we are speaking about a 10 1.1 for the bottom phase 3.39 % starting point is 1.0 instead of 1.3. It (according to V-Planner): percent increase in the decom- Why do rebreather 1.2 for the bottom phase 14.41 % provides the CCR diver with a buff- pression time. And deeper or for divers mostly use 1.3 for the bottom phase 41.53 % er against major oxygen spikes. longer bottom times, this increase More then 1.3 for the bottom phase 1.69 % Setpoint at Setpointdepth duringAscent deco time is even smaller. high pO2 setpoints? I use the same pO2 for the deco phase 13.56 % Better PO2 readings 1.3 1.3 48 min I use a higher pO2 for the deco phase 21.19 % The sensors give a more accurate 1.0 1.0 86 min reading when dealing with low 1.0 1.3 60 min

90 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED About the Author Cedric Verdier is the What founder of the TRIADE is a Project, established always in 1999, discovering reason- be and exploring more able safety lower than 20 virgin wrecks than 30 or located in the south margin? 40 m (100-130 ft) of France between 70 When it comes to depending on the and 130m (230 ft) and 430 fsw. In 2002, he was oxygen exposure, a environment (cave, the first diver to identify and dive the British cruiser rebreather diver should wreck, current, etc.) HMS Manchester off Tunisia. Amongst other dive be well aware of the and the mission. firsts, he pushed the limits of the Sra Keow cave physiological limits to in Thailand in May 2006, using his Megalodon which he or she will be 5. For the oxygen Closed Circuit Rebreather, to an Asia-Pacific exposed. Safety margin exposure, a com- cave depth record of 201m (660 ft). He is current- is everywhere in tech- petent CCR diver ly planning the Yamishiro Project, an international nical diving, as it’s eve- should always stay expedition aiming to dive the Japanese battle- rywhere in the daily life. within reasonable ship HIJMS Yamashiro sunk in the Battle of Leyte in What kind of safety limits and should the Philippines in November 1944 and resting at margins should we use select a setpoint a depth of 200m (660 ft). Cedric is a PADI Course for deep or extremely lower than 1.1bar Director and a Trimix Instructor Trainer for IANTD, long CCR dives? for the bottom part PSAI, ANDI, DSAT and TDI. He spends most of his of the dive, maybe time teaching cave and mixed-gas rebreather 1. For gas management, increasing this setpoint courses at the diver and the instructor level. He we should use the rule of during the decompres- is a past Regional Manager for PADI Europe and 1/3’s. At the end of the sion phase. DAN and has written five books and more than dive, a CCR diver should 150 articles about diving. As he is always travelling still have at least 1/3 of the oxy- Remember: all over the world, you can mainly contact him by gen cylinder left. if the cavemen were able to survive email at: [email protected] or visit his web- in a very hostile environment, it’s site at www.cedricverdier.com 2. For decompression, all sea- because they learned to implement soned technical CCR divers some safety margins in their daily References increase the conservatism level activities by designing appropriate Oxygen and the Diver by Kenneth Donald and try to modify the off-gassing tools and clever hunting strategies. Partial of Oxygen Selection in curve with gradient factors or A rebreather diver should do the Closed circuit rebreathers by Rod Nairne deeper stops. same in order to survive deep and/ Setpoint Selection by Stephane Havard or extremely long dives. Safety mar- Rethinking Oxygen Limits by Dr. R.W Bill 3. When it comes to hypercap- gin is a must when it comes to pO2 Hamilton nia, we make sure that we stay setpoint selection. ■ Oxygen exposure management by Richard well within the recom- D. Vann mended duration of Physiology of Rebreathers by Dr. David the scrubber. Sawatzky Chapter 17 and 17b of the US Navy Diving 4. For narcosis Manual management, we should always make sure that the And, oh.... this is, by the way, END at the maximum depth will the Winchester rifle, that the cavemen did not have

91 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED New Zealand Dive Experiences Barnacle Busters Scuba Club, USA Dykkercentret, Denmark Dive Operators AMERICAS Dive Operators RED SEA Expand your diving and underwater Los Angeles/Long Beach (Gay/Lesbian) Danish dive shop & online store At the Water’s Edge, MA, USA Emperor Divers, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt photography horizons in Kiwi country www.barnaclebusters.org www.dykcen.dk When you just gotta dive! Your Red Sea dive specialists www.nzdivexperiences.com Bottom Bunch Dive Club, San Diego, US Diveshoppen, Denmark www.lovetodive.com www.emperordivers.com Ningaloo Reef Dive, Western Australia Promoting safe diving and having fun In the heart of Copenhagen Captain Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center Nemo Divers, Eliat, Israel Preferred operators on the West Coast www.bottombunchdiveclub.com www.diveshoppen.dk For the very best diving in the Florida Red Sea’s best little dive center www.ningalooreefdive.com.au British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), UK LondonDivingNet —The best place in Keys www.captianslate.com www.nemodivers.co.il Perth Diving, Australia —Western Aus- Where sport diving began... London to learn to dive Tiedeman’s Diving Center, NY, USA tralia’s premier diving organisation www.bsac.co.uk www.londondiving.net Long Island’s Premier Scuba Ed Facility www.perthdiving.com.au Dansk Sportsdykker Forbund, Denmark Ocean Dive Explorers, Denmark Dive Operators AFRICA Business www.tdconline.com 7500 members in 152 clubs in Denmark TDI/SDI Scandinavia Tuneffe Island Lodge Dive Solutions, South Africa —Diving www.sportsdykning.dk www.oceandive.dk Directory A private Caribbean Island Mozambique, tech & rec dive educ Los Angeles Underwater Photographic SuperDive.dk —Copenhagen www.tuneffelodge.com www.divesolutions.co.za Eagle Bay Liveaboard, Maldives Society, USA www.laups.org dive center, tours and trips Utila Dive Center, Honduras Maldives Oceanic Dreams—where Northumbria Sub Aqua Club, UK PADI, NAUI and NAUI Tech Welcome to the Whaleshark experts your ulitmate diving experience begins Dive training and trips www.superdive.dk www.utiladivecenter.com Dive Operators ASIA www.maldivesdivingadventure.com www.divenorthumbria.co.uk Simply Scuba, UK & International Utopia Village —Coming 2007: Dive, Bali International Diving Professionals Nautilus Explorer Liveaboard, USA Saddleworth Sub-Aqua Club, UK One-stop online dive shop Fish, Relax in Utila, Honduras. Opening Specialists in Macro to Pelagic Sights Diving Mantas to Icebergs Based in the Pannine hills of Lancashire www.simplyscuba.com specials sign up www.utopiautila.com bidp-balidiving.com www.nautilusexplorer.com www.saddleworth-subaqua.co.uk Thyges Dykkercenter, Denmark —IAHD Big Bubble Center, Singapore Ocean Rover —Cruises in Thailand, Southern Division Diving Club 5 star PADI instructor development ctr Taking the mystery out of scuba diving Myanmar, Indonesia and Malaysia Netherlands: Dive with us, you can’t www.thygedive.dk Dive Operators EUROPE www.bigbubble.com www.oceanrover.com sink lower! www.sd-diving.nl Dive Academy Gran Canary Island Delphis Diving, Maldives SMY Ondina —Dive Indonesia Tufts University Scuba Club, MA, USA Dive Travel Agents Europe’s most southern dive center Since 1982. Safe, personal & organised www.smyondina.com New adventures, new buddies To order a directory listing: www.diveacademy-grancanaria.com www.delphis.com.mv www.thebestdivingintheworld.co www.ase.tufts.edu/scuba AquaTours UK Diving World, Netherlands Lumbalumba Diving - Manado Aquatours specialise in Scuba Diving Call or email to reserve space Dive travel specialists Small, cosy and personalized dive SCUBA & UWP Clubs Dive Shops holidays world-wide. Aquatours.com 30 days before publication. Text www.divingworld.nl resort in Marine Park Blue o Two Operating since 2001, blue due 15 days before publication Dykkercenter Langeland, Denmark www.lumbalumbadiving.com Aalesunds Sportsdykkerclub, Norway Carlsens Dykkercenter, Denmark o two offers tailor-made diving holiday date. Send link and text info to: Cabins & in Denmark Sipadan Water Village Resort, Sabah På Voldsdalsberga ved Borgundfjorden Education, Equipment & Service packages to THAILAND, RED SEA, USVI [email protected] www.dykkercenterlangeland.dk Luxurious diving resort in Borneo www.aasdk.no www.cdcdyk.dk and MALTA. www.blueotwo.com Eden Roc Amigos Del Mar www.swvresort.com Ajax Scuba Club, Ontario, Canada Deep Six Underwater Systems, USA Dive Discovery, Houston, TX, USA €195 PER YEAR: Costa Brava Irish owned, reef, wrecks, Tioman Scuba —Finest diving at the Serving Durham Ontario since 1975 New Paltz, NY —We ship worldwide Complete dive & adventure travel Six serial text listings (60 x 15 mm, caves, Clubs & individuals welcome best price in Peninsula Malaysia www.ajaxscubaclub.on.ca www.deep-six.com www.divediscovery.com 3 lines x 30 characters per line www.eden-roc-dive.com www.tiomanscuba.com Alberta Underwater Council, Canada Divers Supply, USA —Shop us for the US Dive Travel Network, USA incl. spaces). Must be prepaid Media-Sub, Erstein, France —Underwa- Ocean Adventures —Philippines & eco-awareness best prices, equipment and service! Not just a vacation, an adventure! with credit card through PayPal. ter video and photography equipment Welcome to the world of wonder ws.albertaunderwatercouncil.com www.diverssupplyusa.com www.usdivetravel.com com and text received no later and service www.mediasub.com www.oceanadventure.com.ph than 15 days before publica- Profondo Blu, Ustica Swanido, Biak, Indonesia Discover the tion. An underwater paradise in the Med Hidden Treasures in Cenderawasih Bay www.ustica-diving.it www.swanido.com Wet & Weird FORMAT: Scuba.Lu, Luxemburg —Diving Luxem- Loch Ness monster revealed... It’s a toad LINE 1: Business name, city/state burg-Worldwide expeditions Dive Operators AUSTRALIA or province, country www.scuba.lu Abyss Scuba Diving, Sydney Australia LINE 2: Slogan or services/offers Timuna Sea, London, UK Scuba diving in Australia is worldclass Researchers carrying out a sonar survey Professor John Watson, of the LINE 3: Website or email address Premier diving specialist in East London www.abyss.com.au of Loch Ness have been amazed to find University of Aberdeen, said: “They (active link) www.timunasea.com Aquapro Dive Services Australia a common toad crawling in the mud were surprised to find a toad at that West Wales Diving Center, UK Your first choice for instructor training 98m down. The Massachusetts Institute of depth.” Longest serving dive center in Wales www.aquaprodive.com Technology (MIT) has been attempting to News edited by INFORMATION: www.westwalesdivers.co.uk Deep Sea Divers Den, Australia unravel the mysteries of the loch. MIT said it had completed a side- Willy Volk www.xray-mag.com Zapp Divers, Denmark Diving Great Barrier Reef & Queens- scan sonar map of the entire length [email protected] Dive tours around Jutland land www.diversden.com.au However, MIT said it did not expect to of the loch, which is about 228m at its www.zappdivers.dk Eagle Hawk Dive Center, Tasmania come across the amphibian so far down. deepest point. SOURCE: WWW.NEWS.BBC.CO.UK ■ Tazmanian Peninsula dive specialists www.eaglehawkdive.com.au 92 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED —Working togeth- Lines & Shadows —Home of the best Underwater Australasia —Australia & Michael Portelly, UK er to keep coral reefs dive source of UWP, travel & adventure Asia Pacific’s most popular dive portal UW Photo, Video, Film Director and Cinematographer www.coralreef.org www.linesandshadows.com www.underwater.com.au Alex Mustard, PhD, UK www.portelly.com The Manta Network NauticFriend.com —The Ultimate UnderwaterTimes —A daily journal of UWP and Marine Biologist Nonoy Tan, Metro Manila, Philippines Help Save the Mantas Worldwide Watersports Directory life in and around water www.amustard.com Underwater images of the Philippines www.save-the-mantas.org www.nauticfriend.com www.underwatertimes.com Amos Nachoum Big Animals [email protected] Onderwaterfoto, Netherlands University of Michigan, OSEH Worldwide expeditions & adventure Poppe Images, Philippines Online Dive Resources Digital UWP Forum Dive links by Larry “Harris” Taylor, PhD www.biganimals.com Marine Iconography of the Philippines www.onderwaterfoto.net www-personal.umich.edu Bill Becher Outdoor & Adventure www.poppe-images.com Business Cairns Scuba Diving Australia One Ocean —Earn frequent diver WetPixel, USA Writing & Photography —CA, USA Thomas Peschak, South Africa Dive training & travel holidays points toward equipment & travel Digital imaging for divers www.becher.com Africa’s Oceans and Coasts Directory www.divedirectory.com.au www.oneocean.com www.wetpixel.com , www.currentsofcontrast.com DiveGuru, Deerfield, FL, USA , Freediving Champion World-Newspapers.com UWP Center, Classes, Trips, Services Tony White, UK When you want answers... Accept No Limits Scuba Diving Magazines Online www.cathychurch.com Underwater imagery at its best! Publishers www.diveguru.net www.patrickmusimu.com www.world-newspapers.com/scuba City Seahorse, Dallas, TX, USA www.seaofdreams.co.uk DiveIndex.com —All links diving related Scuba Duba —Online diving resource UWP & Raja Ampat stock & tours UV Foto, Norway Best Publishing Co, Flagstaff, AZ, USA Newest, top-rated, most popular for news, equipment, buddies & travel www.cityseahorse.com Underwater photos of Stein Johnsen Scuba diving & www.diveindex.com www.scubaduba.com Edwin Marcow, UK www.uvfoto.no www.bestpub.com DivePhotoGuide —The essential Scuba Spots —The World’s Oldest, Marine & Wildlife Photographer Water Ventures Oceans Enterprises resource for UWPs & Videographers Largest Scuba Directory www.edwinmarcow.com Travel, diving and culinary images Diving and Underwater Books www.divephotoguide.com www.scubaspots.com Jack Connick, WA, USA www.waterventures.no www.oceans.com.au Diverlink —A comprehensive resource Scuba.start4all.com —Diving directory UWP & Graphic Design Pine Belt Publishing for divers and dive businesses in cooperation with Diving World www.opticalocean.com Onlline Book Distributors www.diverlink.com www.scuba.start4all.com John Collins Photography, Kinsale, UK www.pinebeltpublishing.com Divester ScubaDiveSites.com, Australia Cool Waters-Emeral Seas Wet & Weird Weblong’s premier diveblog Listing Dive Sites Worldwide www.johncollinskinsale.com www.divester.com www.scubadivesites.com Jon Gross & Keith Clements, WA, USA Dive Manufacturers Dykcentralen, Sweden UK Diving —UK Scuba Diving Marine Life Index Cochran Swedish divelink index Resource & Network www.seaotter.com Undersea Technology www.dykcentralen.se www.ukdivers.com www.divecochran.com Dive Junkie, Singapore —Fun, fashion- News edited by able and expressive scuba dive t-shirts Seattle, USA - From the News Tribune: Via New Scientist’s News Service Peter Symes www.divejunkie.com.sg Diving Unlimited International, USA Toy Submarine Holds Ferry Hostage Penguins on Treadmills Unlimited comfort, performance, quality dui-online.com There was footage all over the TV news of a suspected explosive Lewis Halsey and colleagues their favourite prey: lantern fish. researchers how much energy Fourth Element, UK —High tech, high device at the Steilacoom ferry dock in Washington state, USA, are taking a somewhat unusual If the penguins have to expend the penguin is using. But how do quality dive clothing and design complete with bomb squad guys dressed in their big pillow suits approach to monitoring the more energy catching fish, the the researchers know how much www.fourthelement.com and remote control robots to examine the device, which sheriff’s effects of over-fishing and warm- likelihood is that there are fewer energy expenditure corresponds Nocturnal Lights, CA, USA —Advanced spokesman, Ed Troyer, said looked like a bomb. ing seas on Southern Ocean fish fish in the sea. to different heart lighting systems for diving, UWP, video It was a homemade submarine. Local residents who came to stocks. Instead of using trawling Since 2002, the researchers rates? www.nocturnallights.com the dock area told authorities what had happened. They said nets and counting the fish they have implanted tiny computer Reefling Clothing they’d taped some plastic pipes together a few days ago but bring up—a costly endeavour— chips into 50 king penguins on Enter, the treadmill. Divewear that inspires diving lost track of it. The toy apparently floated to the ferry dock and the researchers have recruited Crozet. The chips monitor the www.reefling.com became lodged under an entryway. ■ king penguins to do the job penguin’s location, and the Watch this video of Silent Diving Systems, USA for them. temperature at the back of its a king penguin on Closed circuit rebreather distribution The experiments are based throat, telling the researchers a treadmill (3 MB, www.silentdiving.com on the theory that the fishing when it swallows a (cold) fish. avi format) ■ patterns of king penguins breed- They also log pressure, which tells ing on the Crozet archipelago— the researchers how deep the Non-Profit Organisations halfway between Patagonia penguin is when it feeds. FILE PHOTO OF AN UNRE- International Association of LATED TOY SUBMARINE AT and Antarctica—can be used as Finally, the chip monitors the Handicapped Divers (IAHD Foundation) SUBMARINESTORE.COM an indicator of the availability of penguin’s heart rate. This tells the www.iahd.org U.S. ANTARCTIC PROGRAM PHOTO LIBRARY

93 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Liduine Bekman

PORTFOLIO 94 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman

It was inevitable that the ocean became the main focus of my paint- ing. I started div- ing, and over the years, the ocean became part of my soul. I am forever fascinated by the seem- ingly limitless variety and ultimate complex- ity of the sea creatures I encounter and never cease to be intrigued by the beauty of the colors and the many shapes—everything from soft and ethereal, to stark and threatening. Nature, once again, is perfection, and it is a true challenge to try and depict that. — Liduine Bekman

Text edited by Gunild Symes All images courtesy of Liduine Bekman

Artist and diver, Liduine Bekman, grew up in an artis- tic family. Her father was a writer and her uncle was a painter. From an early age, she was exposed to their work and began drawing, painting and mak- ing large fabric collages. Bekman said, “I was always fascinated by nature and its beauty. In my family, museum and gallery visits were common, and my family taught me to really see things through careful observation.” The ocean was very much part of Bekman’s child- hood. Growing up in the Netherlands, a country she said that over the centuries was partially built out of

Parrot Play by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45

PREVIOUS PAGE: Just Dreaming II by Liduine Bekman Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45 95 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman

Medallion Series II by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45

the ocean, Bekman lived within walking color in an effort to “loosen up” and work own and makes decisions for you.” distance of the sea. She said that she “wit- more spontaneously. Bekman said that Bekman said that she loves the fluidity of nessed the North Sea in all its beauty, fury the unpredictability of watercolor forced the medium and uses a lot of water in her and bounty.” her to work less tightly controlled. “Initially, initial washes. She said that large brushes Manatee Medallion by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Bekman went to art school and stud- I found watercolor a difficult medium for also help in keeping the medium fluid Limited edition print, 19x13 in. (48x33 cm), $50 / €45 ied all the fine art disciplines from various this precise reason, but perseverance while she builds up a painting with a series drawing media to painting—first oils, then made me fall in love with it. I do like the of layers. acrylic paints. She came to study water- medium because it often has a mind of its “I like my work to look fluid, especially

96 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman

Ship Elements by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45

because of the subject matter I paint. a better look at flowers, animals and home. In my work, the ocean and watercolor buildings. “He almost always willingly Bekman combines deliberate plan- become perfect partners,” she said. obliged,” she said. ning with the spontaneity of watercolor As for her source of inspiration, Throughout her entire life, Bekman to create her epic underwater scenes. Bekman said that it comes from first- lived close to the ocean—first, along “Before I start a new painting or series hand observation of the creatures in the coast of the Netherlands, then of paintings, I have a clear idea in my the sea. She had a love of nature right by the Gulf of Mexico before a move mind, not only what my particular sub- from the start since she was a child, she took her to the coast of Florida with a ject matter is going to be, but in which said. Bekman often wanted her father return once again to the Netherlands manner I wish to portray it. In other to “stop the car” so that she could get shoreline where she currently makes her words, my painting is largely worked Nautical Players and On the Reef by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45 97 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman

The Couple by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45 Cuttlefish, Anyone? by Liduine Bekman out in my mind before I start. I then do a min- reserve her lighter areas and whites to work Watercolor on paper, imalist sketch on the watercolor paper itself on later in the creative process. Bekman 22x30 in. (56x76 cm) before laying in the initial very wet washes works the painting further with many layers $600 / €500

where I basically let the paint do the thinking of paint. She said that she never uses paint It’s a Wonderful, Wonderful World for me.” straight out of the tube. Rather, she prefers to by Liduine Bekman Bekman said that since she already has a always mix her colors on her palette before Watercolor on paper clear picture of what the end result of the applying them to a painting, she said. 30x40 in. (76x102 cm) painting will be, more or less, she can easily Even before she started scuba diving, $900/€750

98 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman

Garden of Eden by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45

Bekman was painting sealife as subject mat- derful colors, being part of an entire new Sea Turtles, Mum & Babe ter. She said that she did lots of snorkeling world will make me continue to dive for as by Liduine Bekman when the opportunities arose, but her desire long as life will let me. Every time I go down, Watercolor on paper “to see life down there closer up, to actually nothing is the same, and every time I surface, 30x40 in. (76x102 cm) feel one with the world underwater” led her I cannot wait to get to work and let this won- $900 / €750

take up diving. derful world inspire my next piece of art.” Just Dreaming “Diving has only increased my curiosity For more information or to order original by Liduine Bekman about the creatures in the ocean,” she said. artwork and prints directly from the artist, Watercolor on paper “The complexity of their anatomy, the won- please visit www.liduinebekman.com ■ 40x60 in. (102x152 cm) $1500 / €1250

99 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED portfolio Liduine Bekman IN OUR NEXT ISSUE Socorro Saint Kitts Humboldt Squid

COURTESY OF SOLMAR V

BARB ROY

NOAA

COMING IN AUGUST Subscribe now FREE! www.xray-mag.com

Two Parrots by Liduine Bekman. Watercolor on paper (original sold). Limited edition print, 13x19 in. (33x48 cm), $50 / €45 www.liduinebekman.com 100 X-RAY MAG : 17 : 2007 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED

Top View