Andrea Doria Wreck Turns 50

Cool Fall Dive Fashions for Divers BC Canada Vancouver Island Deep Wreck

GLOBAL EDITION Yamashiro Oct :: Nov 2006 Focus Number 13 Drysuits Portfolio Carlos Hiller Science Water Colour Ecology Medicines EQUADOR Galapagos from the Sea COVER PHOTO BY BERNARDO SAMBRA 1 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 DIRECTORY X-RAY MAG is published by AquaScope Underwater Photography Dive Fashion & Accessories: Copenhagen, Denmark - www.aquascope.biz www.xray-mag.com Cool Fall Duds for Divers see... page 85 CITIZEN MEN’S 200M PROFESSIONAL DIVER TITANIUM WATCH PRICED AT US$188.89 AT WWW.AMAZON.COM PUBLISHER CO- EDITORS & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrey Bizyukin Peter Symes Anemone, Galapagos Islands. Photo by Bernardo Sambra - Caving, Equipment, Medicine [email protected] Millis Keegan MANAGING EDITOR - Opinions and ‘DiveGuru.net’ contents & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michael Arvedlund - Ecology Gunild Pak Symes Jason Heller - Photography [email protected] Dan Beecham - videography ADVERTISING Michel Tagliati - Medicine Americas & United Kingdom: Leigh Cunningham Kevin Brennan - Technical Diving [email protected] Edwin Marcow Europe & Africa: - Sharks, Adventures Harvey Page, Villy Volk, Catherine GS Lim [email protected] - News International sales manager: Michael Portelly Arnold Weisz Arnold Weisz [email protected]

South East Asia Rep: CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE Catherine GS Lim, Singapore Michael Arvedlund, PhD [email protected] Dan Beecham Marketing Manager: Andrey Bizyukin, PhD Yann Saint-Yves Leigh Cunningham [email protected] Ralph Hagen Jason Heller SENIOR EDITOR Carlos Hiller Michael Symes [email protected] Millis Keegan Catherine GS Lim TECHNICAL MANAGER Cindy Ross Søren Reinke Barb Roy [email protected] Bernardo Sambra CORRESPONDENTS Gunild Symes Enrico Cappeletti - Italy Michael Symes 29 38 48 60 plus... Jordi Chias - Spain Peter Symes GALAPAGOS ISLANDS GALAPAGOS: EVOLUTION VANCOUVER ISLAND ECOLOGY: EDITORIAL 3 John Collins - Ireland Cedrik Verdier ADVENTURE OF AN ICONIC DESTINATION BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA MEDICINES FROM THE SEA NEWS 5 Jeff Dudas - CA, USA Peter Fritchen BY BERNARDO SAMBRA BY JASON HELLER BY BARB ROY BY MICHAEL SYMES WHALES & DOLPHINS 26 Tomas Knutsson - Iceland Stig Insulan Marcelo Mammana - Argentina SEA TURTLE NEWS 28 Hillary Child Yonatan Nir - Israel EQUIPMENT 57 Jim Standing Svetlana Murashkina - Russia 64 71 77 85 BOOKS & MEDIA 92 EEP RECK HE EN OF ERMAID ATTERS DIVE FASHION & ACCESSORIES Gary Myors - Tasmania D W : T Z M M : ALL UDS FOR IVERS BUSINESS DIRECTORY 93 Barb Roy - WA, USA Further info on our website YAMASHIRO DIVING DRYSUITS DRYSUITS FOR DIVAS F D D Yann Saint-Yves - France contacts page: BY CEDRIK VERDIER BY PETER SYMES BY CINDY ROSS EDITTED BY GUNILD SYMES Garold Sneegas - KS, USA 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 69 83 91 95 PROFILE: RALPH HAGEN SHARK TALES: SCIENCE: PORTFOLIO: click here... COVER PHOTO CANADIAN DIVE CARTOONIST Diver with Barracuda, by Bernardo Sambra BITS & BITES WATER COLOUR CARLOS HILLER BY GUNILD SYMES EDITTED BY PETER SYMES BY MICHAEL SYMES EDITTED BY GUNILD SYMES (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)

2 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 Amsterdam Barcelona Cape Town Chicago Copenhagen London Moscow Okinawa Oslo Paris Ravenna Reykjavik San Francisco Sharm El Shiekh Warsaw and

editorial

theme: Seeing what’s AA clearerclearer below the surface where and when the waters get cool. I am in part referring to this perspectiveperspective issues travel reports - from Galapagos and Vancouver Island. But most of all to extending the dive season in the temperate climate zone under whick many of us live - by putting on a drysuit instead of wrapping it all up for the season.

It has been a long while but I still vividly remember when I got my first drysuit and just went on diving throughout the fall, and even win- ter. All of a sudden I could follow the seasons changed also below the surface and I got a much clearer picturer of cycles and suc- cessions. I started to notice chang- es when various species started to emerge, like when in a forest or field, one sees flowers bloom in the spring, or the mushrooms during the autumn.

The drysuit extended my field of view immensely as regards to the Well, I know this is a dive maga- people who live in nature and connection I felt with the blue realm We remember when he was just a minnow. zine but what’s really on my mind off nature - like the iniut. Most of and I came to treasure going out these days, are the same ines- us are, after all, city dwellers and diving on a cool but clear day cable issues that we all seem to consumers in modern societies. where I could see my breath in the As the official dive training agency for Walt Disney World® for 10 magical years, our friendship there runs worry about; Daily reports about bleak sunlight. Regardless of water global warming and the war in But what we witness below the temperature I was always cozy and pretty deep. To celebrate our decade together, NAUI® will host DiveQuest at Epcot’s ® “The Living Seas” the Middleeast that both seem to surface have helped put the spot- comfy in my drysuit. On a real cold attraction during the national trade show this November. Industry professionals can win a VIP DiveQuest escalate out of control. Did I hear light on some environmental issues day I just wore another sweater or that 500 billion usd has now been that would otherwise have gone extra socks. The beauty of cool ticket. Contact Chad Barbay at 407-245-7810 or [email protected]. spent on the latter? And not a undetected for a long while. And water is that it can extremely clear fraction thereof on global warm- helped us white and blue col- as there are no algae so you got It’s a chance to feel like a big fish in a very big pond. ing. I am having issues with those lar workers reconnect to Mother this immense space around you. priorities. I don’t what the politi- nature. Thanks to divers, environ- And breathing cold air does some- cians are thinking. Do they want mental awareness has risen and thing for the metabolism - I don’t to battle over a barren planet? even caused a range of new know what. But I usually come up Visit us online at www.nauiww.org. They should be divers. projects to see the light of day. from a winter diver a lot warmer than when I went in. As for clarity, As divers we have a different Don a drysuit take an extra look at some of the and much clearer perspective. Which leads me to my next point, images from crystal clear waters on Perhaps not as clear as those presenting this issues underlying Iceland in this issue.

3 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED 000000_couverture_33_festival 8/06/06 16:01 Page 1 33 e FESTIVAL MONDIAL DE L’IMAGE SOUS-MARINE L’IMAGE DE Blue O Two

Support SOS-SeaTurtles Sign the petition online, click here ☼ Thousands of sea turtles are being slaughtered often suffering an ugly painful death by being skinned alive. Click here to send an email with Giulia Alessandra Giulia - Ecole primaire - Milazzo - Italie a “Letter of Protest” to the Governor of Bali and copies sent to other important officials Click here to visit SOS Sea Turtle’s webpage ☼ KURT AMSLER / SOS SEATURTLES ANTIBES - ALPES-MARITIMES X-RAY MAG is distributed Views and information X-RAY MAG accepts no PRÉ AUX PÊCHEURS – ANTIBES – PORT VAUBAN six times per year on the expressed in articles are responsibility for unsolicited Internet. © 2004-2006 those of the individual materials sent to its office, 25 au 29 octobre 2006 X-RAY MAG. All rights author and are not nec- nor is it liable for loss or reserved. essarily representative of damage to such materials. SOUS LE PATRONAGE DE JEAN LÉONETTI, DÉPUTÉ-MAIRE D’ANTIBES Material in this publica- views held by X-RAY MAG X-RAY MAG observes a News from NAUI in X-RAY MAG: ET DE CHRISTIAN ESTROSI, tion may not be repro- or its affiliates. Unsolicited strict privacy policy. No per- This issue of X-RAY MAG includes news MINISTRE DÉLÉGUÉ À L’AMÉNAGEMENT DU TERRITOIRE, PRÉSIDENT DU CONSEIL GÉNÉRAL DES ALPES-MARITIMES duced or transferred manuscripts, photographs sonal or private information and press releases from NAUI in sec- tions designated by the NAUI logo. electronically in any form and illustrations should be will be shared with a third While the page design is done by without written permission emailed to: party without the written X-RAY MAG as an integrated part of the magazine, these news stories are brought to FM from the copyright owner. [email protected] permission of the owner. 92.8 Espace imprimerie, Marseille. you by NAUI at NAUI’s discretion. Festival : 62, avenue des Pins du Cap - 06160 Antibes Juan-les-Pins. France. Tél +33 (0)4 93 61 45 45 - Fax +33 (0)4 93 67 34 93 [email protected] - http://www.underwater-festival.com 4 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED way down deep

News edited by Catherine GS Lim and Peter Symes NEWS The conflict is over

Lebanon is Resurfacing Destination Lebanon Lebanon. What springs to mind? The recent strife between Hezbollah and Israel and a recent past dominated by endless years of civil war tend to spring to mind, right? Thanks to its location at the crossroads But as always, reality is far more nuanced than the often one-sided picture painted of Asia, Europe and Africa, Lebanon has been shaped by many civilizations by mass media. Lebanon is also a culturally diverse country, a young democracy throughout history. Modern Lebanese and a diving situation. X-Ray Mag got this update from Alain Sassine. society is characterized by the same cul- tural diversity. Divers enjoying the clear water off the X-Ray Mag: Can you give us diving and not off the beaches. X-Ray Mag: So all the dive sites not like the Red sea—it is the Lebanese coast Cultural epicenter an update on the current situ- The water is still very clean, the are some distance off the coast Mediteranean, but we have very Fashionable and trendy, Beirut is the cul- ation in Lebanon? dive sites are not affected and and not on the coast? nice reefs and dropoffs with excit- tural epicenter of Lebanon. The city is the fish not polluted. The oil is ing marine life. We also have very bustling with life and oozing with charis- Alain Sassine: The situation is only at some of the coast and Alain Sassine: We are diving nice wrecks, i.e. a WW2 French ma. Beirutis live life to the fullest, taking in calm as we now have the we have international compa- daily and most of the dive sites in Vichy government submarine that all the city’s gastronomic delights, ambi- Unifil force to monitor our nies working on cleaning it as we Lebanon are more or less deep, was sunk by the British Navy. It ence and leisure activities until the first coastline and prevent any speak. I think in 4-5 so we have to go out by boat. lies at 37m. There are also a large They used to hours of the morning. Between the time weapons from entering months eve- Shore diving is very rare here. 95% number of exciting deep wrecks they leave work and the time they arrive by sea. This tourist sea- rything of the diving in Lebanon is done for trimix divers. So, it is both reefs call Lebanon home, a true Beiruti fits in shopping, drinks son has obviously been will be by boat. and wrecks. In addition, the water the “petit with friends at a new bar, dinner around upset by the recent back temperature is always nice—it is 10pm, and a Lebanese espresso, before conflict, but I am confi- to nor- X-Ray Mag: Is it difficult div- up to 29°C in summer but never Paris” hitting a nightclub in Achrafieh around dent that next season mal. ing or technical diving? Is it below 18°C in winter. midnight. will be a great one. mainly wreck diving or do As regards to the you have reefs to go to? X-Ray Mag: So you can dive all 200km coastline oilspill, it does cover year round? Nature lovers and divers are also well some of the coast- Alain Sassine: It is served in Lebanon. With 200 km of line, but it doesn’t Alain Sassine is also Alain Sassine: Yes, unless there Mediterranean coastline, as well as effect the diving the NAUI repre- is a storm, we can dive all year. numerous rivers throughout the country, as almost all sentative for And all the tourism infrastructure Alain Sassaine is the man- Lebanon offers many salt and fresh water diving here Lebanon remains in place. The Israelis only aging director of Zouk, sporting activities. Lebanon’s rocky coast- is boat bombed bridges and some infra- Lebanon based Xtreme line and underwater terrain make it a structures in the southern regions. Team Dive Center. unique destination for snorkeling and div- All the hotels are still intact and xtreme-divecenter.com ing. A 600m deep underwater valley runs

5 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED A group of TEK divers preparing to dive (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5) from Beirut to the Bay of Jounieh, cre- ready to accept as many tourists as we ating interesting rocky gorges, under- want. water cliffs and drop-offs for divers to explore. Another popular diving area X-Ray Mag: What is your usual season is at Chekka (near Tripoli), which offers and where did your usual guests come some of the best marine landscapes, from? flora and fauna off the Lebanese coast that is rich with other dive sites like Alain Sassine: The high season for water- Barbur, which is considered to be one sports is, obviously, the summer time. of the most exotic dives in the north of From June to mid November, the sea the country. Barbur features two tun- is great. For the other sports, it is more nels at around 35 meters, which leads year round. We have for example also divers to a drop off up to 60 meters. FILE PHOTO: KURT AMSLER mountains offering alpine skiing, so you Baby Loggerhead Sea Turtles can do all sports here—snow sports and Shark diving Saved During Conflict aquasports. There is always something to If you’re interested in sharks, this is also do in Lebanon, plus we have an amazing your spot, particularly in July and August In the midst of ongoing turmoil between nightlife. They used to call Lebanon the when the water is quite warm. The top Israel and Hezbollah, militants in “petit Paris”. of this finger-like series of reefs starts at Lebanon, volunteers and staff at the 23m at its shallowest and drops to a lit- Jerusalem-based Israel Nature and Alain Sassine: We have many Europeans. Technical diver decomressing in the clear Lebanese water tle over 60m at its deepest. Shark point Parks Protection Authority took time to We have Germans, Italians, we have features statues of saints sunken by ensure baby turtles got a safe passage French. But most of the tourists that come divers in homage to their faith, a cav- to the Mediterranean Sea. to Lebanon come from the Arab gulf. But ern, families of stingrays, and best of all, Ecologists with the authority recently we have plenty of Europeans and also The hotels are still intact small tooth sand tiger sharks, which you transplanted loggerhead nests from some Americans. and ready to accept as many will usually meet at the fourth reef (shark open beaches to a protected hatch- tourists as we want. island). These pregnant females are ery near the northern Israeli town of X-Ray Mag: Do you feel that the general accustomed to the bubbly critters that Nahariyya. After three nights of natural political situation and unrest in the Middle visit their summer home, and they almost hatchings, the conservationists dug out East affects Europeans’ and American’s that Lebanon will pay a high price this always come and check you out. baby turtles that couldn’t climb from perception and willingness to come visit time. We will reach stability again soon, their nests and helped them reach the you? and now the UN is watching the country Underwater ruins water. closely. I don’t expect any problems with Exploring the underwater ruins near The oil spill caused by the Hezbollah- Alain Sassine: Yes, I think on the short it—as long as the Americans are not in Byblos, Sidon and Tyr is another popu- Israeli conflict also claimed the lives term it will. As you know, they were all command, the peacekeepers will be wel- lar activity for divers; however, you are of many sea turtles. An Israeli strike just evacuated out of the country by comed as tourists here. I can understand required to obtain a special permit to against a Lebanese power plant their governments. But I hope that we will why the American audience is afraid with dive near archaeological sites. There dumped 15,000 tons (13,600 metric reach stability soon, and I don’t expect all that has been going on in the media, are also several world-class shipwreck tons) of oil into the ocean, contaminat- but it is safe here. ■ sites, including Le Souffleur (a French ing Lebanese beaches where turtles submarine from World War II) near nest and threatening other eastern Khaldeh, for underwater exploration. Mediterranean coastal habitats. “Lebanon might take years to fully recover from oil spills caused Turtle eggs need to incubate in sandy bombing by Israeli warplanes of three major fuel storage tanks at Lebanon’s coastline is lined with many nests without parental patrols for about a power plant in Jiyeh resulting in 10-15,000 tons of heavy fuel oil to private beach resorts and diving clubs two months. Then the tiny hatchlings, flow out into the Mediterranean. Just the cleaning work, including offering facilities and equipment rentals which average 45 millimeters long, must dredging the floating oil and shovelling the black soiled sand from for diving and snorkeling, as well as a emerge to make a night time dash to the beach, will take us at least one year,” Lebanese Environment variety of other water activities, Nitrox, the ocean. Minister Yacoub Sarraf said. The oil spill has dealt a heavy blow to equipment and Gas blending are also Pollution and habitat loss is already Lebanon’s fishing industry as fishermen could not go to sea to fish available for technical divers to explore taking a serious toll on loggerheads of during the cleaning. “The government will ask the Israeli govern- wrecks as the Victoria (a British military all ages, and the species is currently ment to compensate the fishermen. Even after the completion of ship from WW2) in North Lebanon. classified as endangered by the World the cleaning work, we’ll have to monitor and inspect the sea food Culture, sports and, above all, climate Conservation Union. ■ closely before it enters the market, because it may be toxic.” are sufficient reasons to be confident in seeing you soon in Lebanon. ■ CONTRIBUTED BY XTREME DIVE TEAM A crab is soiled in oil during the oil spill 6 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Earth’s Most Diverse Marine Life Found Off Indonesia’s Papua Province New Species of Sharks, Shrimp, Coral Need Protection GERRY ALLEN

Pseudanthias pleuro- owners and the global commu- Assessment Program (RAP) surveys Paracheilinus walton, a new spe- taenia, a species normally nity,” said Mark Erdmann, senior earlier this year, along with a third cies of “flasher wrasse” discovered found extremely deep, but adviser of CI’s Indonesian Marine expedition in 2001, studied waters during the recent Bird’s Head GERRY ALLEN observed in shallow waters Program, who led the surveys. surrounding Papua province from Seascape surveys in Cenderawasih Bay “Six of our survey sites, which are Teluk Cenderawasih in the north areas the size of two football to the Raja Ampat archipelago “Six of our survey sites, Two recent expeditions Researchers fields, had over 250 species of off the western coast and south- described an under- reef-building coral each – that’s east to the FakFak-Kaimana which are areas the size of led by Conservation water world of visual wonders, more than four times the number coastline. A few hundred kilom- two football fields, had over International (CI) to the such as the small epaulette shark of coral species of the entire eters inland are Papua’s Foja heart of Asia’s “Coral that “walks” on its fins and color- Caribbean Sea.” Mountains, where a team led by 250 species of reef-build- Triangle” discovered ful schools of reef fish populating Though human population CI and the Indonesian Institute of ing coral each – that’s more abundant and healthy corals of density in the region is low, the Science (LIPI) last year discovered dozens of new species all shapes and sizes. coastal people of the Bird’s Head a virtual “Lost World” of new spe- than four times the number of marine life including peninsula are heavily dependent cies of birds, butterflies, frogs and of coral species of the entire epaulette sharks, “flasher” Species factories on the sea for their livelihoods, other wildlife. Caribbean Sea.” wrasse and reef-build- Threats from over-fishing with which are now under threat from Off the coast, researchers dynamite and cyanide, as well a plan to transfer fishing pres- found more than 50 species of ing coral, confirming the as deforestation and mining sures from Indonesia’s over-fished fish, coral and mantis shrimp pre- Only 11 percent of the sea- region as the Earth’s rich- that degrade coastal waters, western seas to the east toward viously unknown to science in scape is currently protected, most est seascape. require immediate steps to pro- Papua province. the Bird’s Head Seascape that of it in the Teluk Cenderawasih tect the unique marine life that “The coastal villages we sur- covers 18 million hectares, includ- National Park that is supported by All images courtesy of sustains local communities. The veyed were mostly engaged ing 2,500 islands and submerged the World Wide Fund for Nature- Conservation International seascape’s central location in in subsistence fishing, farming reefs. The seascape also includes Indonesia (WWF-Indonesia). the Coral Triangle of the Pacific, and gathering, and they require the largest Pacific leatherback Results of the CI-led surveys high- The unmatched marine biodiver- which exports and maintains bio- healthy marine ecosystems to turtle nesting area in the world, light the need for a well-man- sity of the Bird’s Head Seascape, diversity in the entire Indo-Pacific survive,” said Paulus Boli, a State and migratory populations of aged network of multiple-use named for the shape of the dis- marine realm, makes it one of the University of Papua researcher led sperm and Bryde’s whales, orcas Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) tinctive peninsula on the north- planet’s most urgent marine con- the socioeconomic component and several dolphin species. to conserve the seascape’s biodi- western end of Indonesia’s Papua servation priorities. of the expeditions. “We are very “We’re thankful to the Ministry versity and ensure the long-term province, includes more “These Papuan reefs are liter- concerned about the potential of Forestry and CI for the sig- sustainability of commercial and than 1,200 species of fish ally ‘species factories’ that require impact of planned commercial nificant data from these surveys, subsistence fishing. ■ and almost 600 species of special attention to protect them fisheries expansion in the region, and we are excited to be plan- reef-building (sclerac- from unsustainable fisheries and and we urge a precautionary ning further surveys in 2007 to Partners in the two 2006 surveys fund- tinian) coral, or 75 other threats, so they can con- approach that emphasizes sus- fill in remaining data gaps that ed by the Walton Family Foundation percent of the tinue to benefit their local tainability over intensive exploita- will help us plan the most effec- included the Indonesian Ministry world’s known tion.” tive management possible for of Forestry’s Department of Forest total. The two this exceedingly crucial area,” Protection and Nature Conservation Rapid said Dr. Suharsono, head of LIPI’s and its local offices in Papua; Teluk Oceanography Center. Cenderawasih National Park Authority, the State University of Papua, and WWF-Indonesia.

A newly discovered species

GERRY ALLEN of epaulette shark 7 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Fish Surveys Demonstrate Clear Benefits on reefs open to fishing with those ear- marked to be closed to fishing under of New Great Barrier Reef Zoning Plans the new zoning. Just under two years after the rezoning, both of these fish When the Great Barrier Reef Zoning nearby reefs that remain open to fishing. species targeted by fisheries were Plan was introduced in 2004, it signifi- In the last 12 months, the Australian almost 60% more abundant on reefs cantly increased the amount of habitat Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) sur- closed than open to fishing. protected from fishing and provided veyed fish populations on 26 reefs AIMS Research Director, Dr Peter a unique opportunity to determine closed to fishing by the rezoning and Doherty, is excited to see such clear how quickly reef fish stocks respond to 25 matched reefs that remained open results within two years of the changed reduced fishing pressure. The ‘no-take’ to fishing, representing five geographic management arrangements. Green zones established in the Zoning regions adjacent to coastal communities “The extent of the difference is quite NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION (NOAA) Plan are designed to create protected between Cairns and Gladstone. surprising at this early stage, but the areas where fish can grow and mature Scientists from James Cook University consistency of the differences between to their full potential. As the oldest and surveyed fish and coral populations on zones in all of the places that were largest fish produce far more offspring fringing reefs of the Whitsunday Islands. examined last year leaves me in no than smaller individuals, the adults liv- Before the rezoning in 2004, abundance doubt that this is a real result.” ■ ing in Green zones are expected to add of fish like coral trout and stripey sea SOURCE: AIMS - AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE to the replenishment of populations on perch were approximately the same OF MARINE SCIENCE

How Deep Sea Isopods Other Positive News Turned Into Giants Philippines’ Apo Phu Quoc Island to This giant deep-sea isopod is an example of an animal that has Florida Keys National Underwater Island a ‘Ray of Hope’ Preserve Coral Reefs evolved to a much larger size in Marine Sanctuary is Grasses Recovering in Marine Protection VIETNAM - Authorities and deeper water. These isopods are Fulfilling Its Goal of oceanographers are work- distant relatives of the tiny “pill — Sanctuary to and Conservation Protecting the Marine Life ing to zone off the coral bugs” found in many gardens. Expand Efforts reefs and seaweed-inhab- They are also related to small shal- Three studies examining the Beds of underwater grass- Greenpeace has described ited areas around the low-water isopods that live in tide Tortugas Ecological Reserve, es in the Chesapeake Bay Apo Island as a “ray of Phu Quoc Island. Studies pools. protected from fishing since that suffered a major die- hope” in environmentalists’ released by the Nha Trang July 2001, documented increas- off last summer are recov- efforts to promote the pro- Oceanography Institute said Why is it so huge? ing numbers and sizes of com- ering. Beds of eelgrass pro- tection and conservation of that the archipelago is home Biologists ever since Charles mercially and recreationally vide habitat for blue crabs, the environment worldwide. to nine species of seaweed, Darwin have observed that when important species of fish and rockfish and other domi- The Greenpeace ship MY which cover an area of over animals colonize and evolve on other marine life. Because the nant species in the bay. Esperanza anchored off the 7,200ha. The seaweeds pro- isolated islands, small animals tend Tortugas region is upstream But as the plant does not coast as part of its global vide an abundant source of to become larger while large ani- from the Florida Keys reef tract, tolerate hot water tem- tour to defend the oceans food to the Dugong. mals tend to become smaller, a improvements in the reserve’s peratures, global warm- from all forms of environ- According to the results of general trend that has become fish populations may help sus- ing may continue to be a mental destruction. Janet the studies, coral reefs flour- known as the “island rule”. After tain fish stocks in the Keys and hurdle in the struggle to Cotter, oceans scientist of ish in the south of Phu Quoc millions of years, they may even further north, as more and larg- keep the grasses thriving, Greenpeace International, Island with a total area esti- evolve into entirely new species er fish produce larvae that are according to Bob Orth, stated she was happy to see mated at 362ha. ■ that look very different from the carried away from the reserve a biologist at the Virginia in this part of the country a original colonizers. on ocean currents. Adult fish Institute of Marine Science. blue print in Recent research led by MBARI may also move to areas outside Governments working to place on how postdoctoral fellow Craig McClain the reserve as competition for clean up the Chesapeake marine re- suggests that a similar trend space increases within. These Bay set a goal of restoring serves should affects animals as they adapt to fish then become available to 185,000 acres of underwa- be managed life in the deep sea. ■ the fishery, an effect known as ter grasses by 2010. SOURCE: through the A FULL ARTICLE IS IN PRESS IN THE PEER-REVIEWED spillover. SOURCE: NOAA ■ NOAA ■ years. ■ JOURNAL OF BIOGEOGRAPHY.

8 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Study Shows Significant California Takes On Global Warming Coral Reef Regeneration news If things go according to plan, When it is implemented in also predicted that the bill, in the Arabian Gulf the US state of California will 2012, businesses that gener- while having limited impact, implement a plan to ensure ate greenhouse gases, like would increase business An ongoing study of coral reefs in Edited by that it would no longer be the oil refineries, power plants, costs. the Arabian Gulf has shown sig- Peter Symes world’s 12th largest emitter of factories and cement kilns, Whether the bill will have nificant regeneration of coral reefs greenhouse gases. This sce- are required to report their sufficient positive impact on in Abu Dhabi and eastern Qatar, nario would be the result of AB emission levels to the Air the environment is debat- according the WWF. At least 18 out 32, a landmark agreement in Resources Board, a depart- able. In a recent interview of an original 36 species of coral which businesses that gener- ment of the California with the BBC, Professor found in the region have recovered ate greenhouse gases have to Environmental Protection John Holdren, president of from damage suffered due to past cut their emission of such gases Agency that promotes the American climatic events. In particular, Halul Australia and France by 25% by the year 2020. public health, in Qatar and Ras Ghanda in Abu Hailed by Californian welfare and Dhabi are two areas where the to Sign Southern Governor Arnold Schwarzen- ecological most vigorous coral regeneration Ocean Fishing Treaty egger as “an example for resources is taking place. Yasat and Dalma other states and nations through islands in Abu Dhabi have also Australia and France have to follow”, the bill makes effective recorded good coral growth and agreed to sign a treaty to California the first US state to reduction of high coral fight illegal fishing in the limit the emission of green- air pollutants. cover. “The entire range Southern Ocean, the waters house gases. In cases “We are encircling the continent of where firms are unable Association for the encour- of the region’s coral Antarctica. — or unwilling — to cut their Advancement of Science, aged by species could be re- Australian Fisheries Minister emissions by the required felt that our planet was the results established within Peter McGauran said the trea- amount, a provision in the already experiencing a dan- of exten- ty would allow a French vessel bill allows them to purchase gerous climate change. sive surveys a decade.” to apprehend an illegal fish- ‘credit’ from firms whose He feels that if immediate undertaken ing boat caught in Australian emissions are below the 25% drastic action is not taken, as part of the coral reef project,” waters, and vice versa. “Our limit. sea levels may raise by four said Razan Al Mubarak, Director of combined efforts on the water While this ‘cap-and-trade’ meters within this century. the WWF office in the United Arab are proving a very powerful provision is designed to give More specifically, the melt- Emirates. deterrent to illegal fishing.” flexibility to businesses, it is ing of the Greenland ice “Assuming no further disturbances Australia has waged an seen by some as a way that cap alone would cause to their habitat occur, the rate of intensive campaign against companies can ‘buy’ their global sea levels to raise by regeneration suggests that the illegal fishing of its southern way out of reducing their seven meters, leading to the entire range of the region’s coral waters. ■ emissions. Some politicians destruction of many cities. ■ species would be re-established and business leaders have within a decade.” ■ Huge Chemical Dump Discovered in the Baltic N ew During a routine halfway up the east waste and recently 23,000 barrels. The Ultimate survey in August, coast of Sweden. discovered docu- “We knew there Scuba Tank/Spear Gun HoldeHolderr Ingemar Cato, a car- But that was just ments from a local were mercury bar- TEMPORARY – no permanent damage tographer with the the start of it. As this paper mill indicate rels in the bay,” PRE-ASSEMBLED – no hassles or headaches Geological Survey issue went to press, that the factory may Cato stated to INSTANT ATTACH & RELEASE – quick & effortless of Sweden stumbled some 3,500 barrels of have dumped tens the German daily MULTIPLE HOLDERS – 2 & 3 tank racks- 1 speargun slot 4 tank rack has 2 speargun slots across 30 barrels of mercury have been of thousands of bar- Spiegel. “In 1976, a SPACE SAVER – compact for easy storage industrial waste in 80- found and there may rels in the bay in the fishing trawler pulled GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF SWEDEN meter-deep water be thousands more 1950s and 60s. one up in its net. For 800-920-2910 Thousands of barrels with Mercury in the outer part of to be discovered. The depressing con- me the surprise was PO Box 1967, Nokomis, FL 34272 laden waste have been discov- Sundsvall Bay in the Experts say the sea clusion is that there the number.” ■ (941) 484-0714 Fax: (941)-484-2749 ered on the Baltic seabed Baltic Sea about is full of industrial could be as many as www.scubastorage.com

9 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED recovery mission, Brashear injured his left leg, part of which had to Navy Chief Submerges be amputated. The Navy was news prepared for Brashear to retire; 2,000 Feet, Sets Record however, he surprised everyone by announcing that he was mov- On August 1, Chief Navy Diver Daniel P. Jackson Edited by ing forward with his Master Diver of the Navy Reserve Deep Submergence Unit Willy Volk certification. After completing (DSU) donned an Atmospheric Diving System rigorous coursework—includ- (ADS) suit—a virtually un-crushable exoskel- ing numerous deep dives—and eton for divers—descended 2000 enduring threats from white ship- feet below the waters off La Jolla, mates and efforts by Navy offic- “It was California, and broke a record for US Navy’s first African American deep sea diver dies ers to sabotage his final exam, deep diving. Jackson had been Brashear became the Navy’s first the best randomly selected to certify the Carl Brashear (1931-2006) African ride ADS—also known as the Hardsuit American in the 2000 —for use by the Navy. On July 25, 2006, Carl Maxie 1948, shortly after the US master Designed by OceanWorks Brashear, the first African military desegregated. diver in world.” International to support subma- American to become a deep sea Compelled to pursue some- 1970. rine rescue, the ADS is the culmi- diver for the Navy, died at the thing “challenging,” Brashear Ultimately, nation of 11 years of planning, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth decided to try diving. After Brashear designing and testing by multiple agencies. of respiratory and heart failure. He becoming the Navy’s first became According to Cmdr. Keith W. Lehnhardt, the was 75. African American diver, he the first officer in charge of the project, “This is the big- Brashear joined the Navy in quickly set about to become amputee gest piece of teamwork that I have ever seen in SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY a master in the the Navy.” So, what’s it like to dive solo in 2000 diver, the Navy’s feet of water in a metal casing? According to highest history Jackson, “At 2,000 feet, I had topside turn off all level in to be the lights, and it was like a star show. The phos- the Navy’s restored phorescence that was naturally in the water diving hier- to full and in most of the sea life down there started to archy. In active glow. When I started to travel back up, all the 1966, while duty; Chief Navy Diver Daniel Jackson completes a successful lights looked like a shower of stars going down on his way the first amputee to rise to master certification dive of the Atmospheric Diving System (ADS) as I was coming up. It was the best ride in the to achiev- chief petty officer; and the only aboard the special mission charter ship M/V Kellie Chouest world.”■ SOURCE: WWW.MILITARY.COM ing that goal, amputee deep sea diver to gain two US Air the title of master diver. After retir- Force planes ing, he was portrayed by actor collided off Cuba Gooding Jr. in the film Men DEMA’s Scuba Tour Help Wounded Iraq and Afghanistan— dive certifications. This the coast of of Honor. He is survived by sons were introduced to month, those individu- Spain, drop- Phillip, DaWayne, and Patrick. Veterans Experience Scuba Diving adaptive scuba div- als and their families ping a nuclear If you doubt Brashear’s tough- ing in the Scuba Tour’s will travel to Bonaire to weapon into ness, consider this statement: The Wounded Warrior Equipment & Marketing portable 17,000-gallon obtain their C-cards. the water. “Sometimes I would come back Project raises the public’s Association (DEMA) pool. During the four- Bonaire was chosen for During the from a run, and my artificial leg awareness and enlists organizes a traveling day event, the Scuba its easy, accessible reefs, would have a puddle of blood support for the needs Scuba Tour, to promote Tour staff, local dive calm waters and local from my stump. I wouldn’t go to of severely injured serv- awareness of diving to shops, specially-trained staff with prior experi- U. S. Navy sick bay because they would ice men and women. the public at large. This volunteers and firefight- ence training disabled diver Carl have taken me out of the pro- One component of the summer, the two organi- ers from the New York divers. ■ Brashear (left) gram. Instead, I’d go hide some- program, the Disabled zations crossed paths in City Fire Department whose life where and soak my leg in a Sports Project, provides Rockaway Point, NY, at introduced diving to story inspired bucket of hot water with salt in it injured soldiers with an the Disabled Sports USA these service men and the film “Men —that’s an old remedy I learned opportunity to experi- 2006 Adaptive Water women. After learning of Honor” growing up.” ■ ence various water Sports Festival. There, 24 what diving was like, starring Cuba sports. Meanwhile, US troops—all of whom nine of the participants Gooding Jr., each year, the Diving were severely injured in decided to pursue their SOURCE: WOUNDEDWARRIORPROJECT.ORG (right)

10 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Dick Long A Ballsy Team of Divers Ready to Take the Plunge? receives pres- Raises Money For Charity Captain Beermunder Wants You! news tigious Roger Recently, one woman and six men If you and your significant other are ready Noted Shipwreck Expert engaged in an unusual fundrais- to take The Big Plunge, here’s an idea: Revelle Award David Bright Dies ing event for the Orchid Cancer Florida’s Pensacola Dive Company is look- Edited by Each year, the Appeal, a charity for men with ing for couples to exchange vows at the American David Bright, underwater Willy Volk San Diego Oceans testicular cancer. Attempting an world’s largest artificial reef, the recently- explorer and shipwreck expert, died on Foundation bestows underwater relay across the English sunk USS Oriskany. July 8, 2006. Bright had been diving on the Roger Revelle Channel, the upright team entered The dive company’s owner, Capt. Ron the Andrea Doria where he was working Three fishermen. Award on a San the water at Dover at 6:10am on Beermunder, sounds like a really sweet in preparation for the wreck’s 50th anni- Diegan who has a Saturday morning and reached guy. He’s a Navy special warfare trained versary. According to the Coast Guard, One boat. made a significant contribution to humankind’s France’s Cap Gris Nez roughly 12 diver, a former Navy water survival instruc- Bright surfaced from an afternoon dive Nine months at sea. ability to coexist with the marine environment. hours later, just in time for wine and tor, a CPR instructor and an instructor in with decompression sickness and went This year, the Foundation honored Dick Long cheese. nine diving safety courses. However, as an into cardiac arrest. He was pronounced On October 28, 2005, five with this prestigious award. For more than Diving in shifts, each participant ordained minister, he’s qualified to conduct dead soon after. He was 49. Mexican fishermen launched 40 years, Long and the oceans have been spent between 30 and 90 minutes the ceremony. (Who knows? Maybe he’ll An experienced wreck researcher, a 27-foot-long boat from San enmeshed. In 1960, Long founded National underwater (at a depth of around even sing.) Bright had explored Titanic, the USS Blas, a tiny fishing village on Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI); 4m), before handing the baton Getting hitched 70 feet below the sur- Monitor and other shipwrecks through- Mexico’s Pacific coast. They as President of SDOF, he helped coordinate to the next diver. Organizer Colin face on the carrier’s navigation tower will out his career. In fact, he had dived the intended to fish for sharks for the sinking of the Yukon off Mission Beach, Osbourne—the Appeal’s founder cost US$1200. However, the price includes Andrea Doria—considered the “Mount a few days. After accidentally California; and in the 1960s, he developed a and himself a testicular cancer a four-person, two-tank dive charter. Everest of scuba diving” due to the chal- losing their fishing gear, the hot water suit, allowing scientists, military, and survivor—said the team had no Wedding cake is extra. ■ lenge of reaching it—more than 120 boat’s owner, “Senor Juan,” commercial divers to engage in saturation div- problems making the 34km cross- SOURCE: WWW.PENSACOLADIVECOMPANY.COM times. ordered the crew to search for ing. In addition to an evening of dinner, danc- ing. Claiming that Bright also started the Nautical the missing equipment. ing and the promise of being remembered into “there was hardly Research Group, a consulting firm deal- Soon, though, the group ran perpetuity, Long was presented with a hand- any wind” dur- ing with shipwreck disasters throughout out of gas, and ocean currents carved wooden Garibaldi -- California’s official ing the event”, the world. A former pharmaceutical swiftly swept them out to sea. fish. ■ Osbourne has research scientist, Bright’s hobby quickly Exposed to the elements in their given new mean- became his career, and he frequently open vessel, the men drank ing to the phrase lectured on shipwrecks and participated rain water and caught and ate limited sea swells. in documentaries. ■ SOURCE: WWW.BOSTON. raw fish and birds. However, Ultimately, COM two of the men, including the team raised “Senor Juan,” refused to eat $50,000 for the Creator of Diving Decompression uncooked food and died. charity. ■ Finally, after 285 days adrift, SOURCE: DIVE MAGAZINE Tables Dr Val Hempleman Dies a Taiwanese fishing boat spot- ted the vessel near the Marshall Dr Val Hempleman, a leading British Islands, roughly 8000km from scientist in the development of diving their home and rescued the US Dive Travel Operators Merge decompression tables, has died. He was men. What do fishermen do Two of the industry’s and Canadian dive Tour Operators Face Trial After Diver Dies 84. when drifting aimlessly in the leading dive travel market. Dr Hempleman worked at the Royal seemingly-endless Pacific? specialists, Caradonna The collaboration In January 2004, a PADI-certified yet relatively inexperienced diver named Robert Naval Physiological Laboratory (RNPL) Denying that they resorted Dive Adventures and is the result of several Grant rented dive gear from Australia’s Melbourne Diving Services and signed up from the early 1950s to the mid-1980s. to cannibalism, the fishermen Trip-N-Tour Pacific, years of cooperation, for a supervised dive trip. Joined by two friends, Grant hit the water and quickly During that time, he oversaw the devel- claim they passed time reading announced that they which has recently disappeared from view. Moments later, he was pulled from the water but could opment of the Royal Navy’s postwar the Bible, singing and dancing. will merge opera- led to the purchase not be revived. Now, Melbourne Diving Services faces charges for failing to ensure diving tables, a predecessor of today’s When journalists asked what tions and join forces of Trip-N-Tour Pacific the care of people other than its employees under the Occupational Health and modern diving tables. Between 1970 they planned to do next, one to become North by Caradonna Dive Safety Act of 1985. The prosecution alleges that the dive company failed to carry and 1980, Dr Hempleman also managed of the men said, “see the family America’s most exclu- Adventures, part of out standard equipment checks and that Grant lacked adequate supervision from landmark deep-diving experiments in for three or four days and then sive dive travel com- First Choice Holidays, the instructors. However, a separate diver on the same dive trip has defended which volunteers made dry chamber get back to work.” Arguably, it pany offering exper- PLC, a UK based inter- the dive instructors, asserting they were competent. The case is set to go to trial in dives to 660m, where they lived for sev- might be time for a vacation. In tise and experience national leisure travel November. If convicted, the firm could be fined up to US$250,000. ■ eral days. ■ SOURCE: WWW.DIVERNET.COM the desert. ■ SOURCE: CNN unmatched in the U.S. company. ■ SOURCE: WWW.NEWS.COM.AU

11 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Body Glove Co-founder Bill Meistrell Dies Throughout his career, Bill Meistrell helped bring the sports of surfing and diving into the main- stream. Mesitrell died from Parkinson’s disease on July 26, 2006, surrounded by family and friends at his home. He was 77. Bill and his twin brother Bob started diving in the pond of their boyhood farm using an oil can for a helmet and a bicycle pump and a hose for air. Later, in the 1940s, Bill and Bob were among the first Los Angeles County Ocean Lifeguards. In 1953, Bill co-founded a retail store, called Dive N’ Surf, with Bob and several other men. Soon after, Bill and several of his partners invented the first wetsuit. Bill came up with the phrase “fits like a glove” and Body Glove was born. Soon, the Dive N’ Surf crew was consulting with Hollywood on both TV shows and feature films. Today, Bill is one of only three men named to both the surf- ing and diving halls of fame. According to Bill’s Robert Marx (left) with our late colleague John Neuschwander in 2002 brother, “We had three goals when we were small boys: own a submarine, go deep-sea div- And You Thought You Were Busy! ing and treasure-hunting. Somehow we man- Underwater archaeologist Bob Marx -- who will turn 70 next year aged all three.” ■ SOURCE: WWW.DIVENEWSWIRE.COM -- is a busy man. In addition to authoring books (like The Battle of the Spanish Armada: 1588, and The Voyage of the Nina II), he also “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin Dies has several excavation operations scattered throughout the world including one in Ecuador that requires a small army to protect the Steve Irwin, the famed Australian naturalist, died finds from nosy neighbors. He and his wife, Jenifer, have been filmed after a freak encounter with a stingray. The large more than 50 times by television crews, and they have served as bull ray, apparently frightened, launched the ser- guest lecturers aboard cruise lines and at universities. Yet, amazingly, rated barb in its tail into Irwin’s chest, puncturing Marx still averages 71 hours a week underwater, although he claims his heart. Irwin pulled the barb from his chest and his third pacemaker is “slowing me down.” ■ died. He was 44. SOURCE: WWW.FLORIDATODAY.COM Irwin’s parents founded the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park in 1970, which later became Australia Zoo. Surrounded by animals while grow- NAUI Pacific Rim ing up, Irwin decided to help his father when the recently hosted elder man decided to do something about the twenty-five lucky hunting that threatened the area’s crocodile pop- students at the ulation. After gaining experience with the animals, Coral Redang Resort Irwin was soon spotted by a television producer. in Terengganu, The pair quickly began making conservationist- Malaysia to par- themed documentaries in which Irwin would wres- ticipate and study tle crocodiles, snakes and other dangerous ani- about marine life as mals. In moments of danger, he would shout the part of its Student word, “Crikey!”, a phrase which will not doubt be Marine Education forever associated with him. Although immensely Program. popular, his unconventional approach drew criti- The program, cism from those who believed he was irresponsible which was held from and reckless with animals. Irwin was filming a doc- August 19-21, is a school vacation program involving snorkeling umentary called Ocean’s Deadliest off Australia’s and marine education for students ages 12-14. The Student Marine coast when he was attacked. Worldwide, Education Program was designed as a way to instill in students the researchers know of only 17 people who have importance of marine life and its conservation. Students who par- died from stingrays, and only three in Australia. ticipated in the program also studied the marine environment and Irwin is survived by his wife, Terri, his daughter, Bindi were introduced to skin diving and entry-level scuba. ■ Sue, and his son, Bob. ■ SOURCES: BBC, REUTERS, CNN

12 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED 13 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED World’s First Paraplegic NAUI Course Director “It was originally a six-month gig, but it’s been renewed Paraplegic Fraser go down the professional route ever since, and it’s worked Bathgate has become in scuba diving,” commented out ten times better than I Brouwer. ever expected,” says Fraser. the world’s first Course Jelle Buisman added: “NAUI He travelled to many places Director to qualify from has always been known to be a around the world to promote NAUI EUROPE a wheelchair with NAUI, market leader for new and for- scuba diving for the disabled the National Association ward-thinking programmes and and train instructors in places Workshops certifications. We see this as the as far away as Japan, Australia, of Underwater Instructors. next logical step.” Cayman Islands but also clos- Fraser Bathgate’s training er to home in Slovenia and European REPW Bathgate, who is Vice President included pool work, academic throughout the UK. (2-day representative workshop) and Director of Training for the classes and a visit to the NAUI Ever since he became (Week 40, 2006) International Association for Europe head office in Nijverdal. involved with the International Handicapped Divers (IAHD), has Bathgate had to prove his div- Association for Handicapped Monday Oct. 2, 2006 been a NAUI Instructor Trainer ing and teaching skills in a swim- Divers in 1994, he has put even Tuesday Oct. 3, 2006 since 2003. He achieved this ming pool. The weather was Fraser Bathgate conducted the more energy in developing new qualification at Atlantis Dive not very cooperative but that “I’m very happy that we have first of his “No Barriers” tours, programs and training aids for Centre, Key Largo, Florida, with didn’t really stop the instructors been able to support this train- an ambitious programme of divers. Bruce Klaiber and Captain and Bathgate from complet- ing program. It is great to have motivational presentations at Fraser has been involved with Training at NAUI EUROPE Spencer Slate, having earlier ing this part of the training. The Bathgate on board as NAUI spinal rehabilitation units spon- a number of manufacturers in training facility for NAUI TEC completed his instructor course outdoor pool is based in the vil- Course Director. I believe this sored by PADI and Breitling. the diving branch, Oceanic there. lage of Abbekerk, Netherlands. will help both Bathgate and But the project was coming and Weezle to name a couple. (Dates and individual programs on He has now completed the It is the homebase of diveteam NAUI to further develop scuba under severe pressure until Ford With his help, most times only request) NAUI Course Director pro- “Verpleegsterhaai”. The dive diving,” commented Richard stepped in to offer him sponsor- small adjustments have been gramme, a three-day work- team has a broad experience Lucas. ship. Equipped with a specially made to equipment to make In this program, NAUI EUROPE offers shop held in the Netherlands with training disabled people to adapted Ford car, Fraser was it more user friendly. Everything Technical Instructor workshops. by Jelle Buisman, NAUI Europe different levels in sport diving, all Fraser Bathgate’s training soon covering 20,000 miles a focused on making Scuba Training Manager and Klaas instructors are trained by both was the first of its kind for year in the UK alone. Diving more accessible. ■ Technical Course Director workshops Brouwer, NAUI Course Director the IAHD and NAUI. NAUI In the following NAUI TEC courses: and President of the IAHD. “With the completion of this “Hopefully, this will open the course, it is proven that scuba Fraser started diving in 1992 door to people with disabilities diving is a very accessible activ- in Dubai—his first break after Intro to Tech and give them the courage to ity. For me, it is the completion he ended up in a wheelchair Technical EAnx of the circle, which start- after a climbing accident in Decompression Techniques ed when I became the 1986. It turned out to be a Heli-air, Heli-trox first Paraplegic scuba major life changing event for Wreck Penetration instructor, now I can train him. Technical Wreck Penetration anyone to any scuba As the first person in a Trimix-I & Trimix-II diving level,” comment- wheelchair ever to qualify as Mixed Gas Blender ed Bathgate. a PADI scuba-diving instruc- With a visit to NAUI tor in 1994, Fraser has been Europe’s head office, responsible for teaching For information or to participate in the training program was thousands of people with one or more of the above men- completed. The signa- disabilities to dive since that tioned courses and/or workshops tures were placed on the day. And as the guru on dis- you can contact us by email: necessary documents ability access, his advice is and then followed by sought by the organisers of [email protected] a firm handshake from major sporting events and or [email protected] Richard Lucas, General outdoor concerts. Director NAUI Europe. It was back in 1996 that

14 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Scuba degree tion, the new BA (Hons) PADI Europe: Students at Kingston degree involves a number of “NITROX is more popular than ever” University in Surrey, United adventure activities such as Training Kingdom, will soon be head- scuba diving, climbing and It has been two years since PADI Europe launched ing underwater as part of kayaking. For details, phone Diving with NITROX. The success was immediate. And a new BA (Hons) degree in Kingston University on (+44) two years later the certification numbers surpass all Edited by Outdoor Education. Focusing 020 8547 7053 or see its web- original expectations. Diving with NITROX is more Peter Symes on environmental educa- site. www.kingston.ac.uk popular than ever. The certification numbers have increased from 5,417 in 2003 to an average of 20,000 in 2004 and 2005. Jean-Claude Monachon, PADI Europe’s CEO, takes TDI Releases New Nitrox Manual and a confident look at the future: “The NITROX story of Support Materials success will be continued in 2006. There is still an enor- mous potential of divers who have not tried out the TDI has released new teaching and learning materi- unique advantages of NITROX over regular pressurized als today for its popular and ground-breaking Nitrox air but would like to give it a try at the next occasion.” course. These materials include a student manual, This is becoming easier all the time, because two knowledge review, instructor guide and new Instructor years after the launch, more than 530 of the Resource CD (includes PowerPoint, exams and an 1,000 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts within electronic instructor guide) all of which have been PADI Europe’s territory offer NITROX diving. ■ TDI Unveils New Materials completely re-written and redesigned to meet the for Inspiration / Evolution agency’s new training materials guidelines and reflecting the learning needs of today’s Nitrox CCR Course diver candidate. TDI is the first of the major training agen- The TDI student manual includes more than cies to release support materials for the 60 specially created illustrations and photo- popular Inspiration and Evolution Closed graphs in a 120-page perfect-bound format. Circuit Rebreathers. TDI’s Nitrox course teaches students to exe- The student manual primary author cute dives utilizing Nitrox mixtures up to 40%. is John Garvin, a CCR Instructor for the In the new Nitrox manual, learning objectives and Inspiration since it was first launched in key concepts for each of its nine chapters are high- DAN Announces New Online 1998, but there have been several other lighted and clearly defined. The content covers the Training Course highly qualified Instructor Trainers and benefits of Nitrox, Equivalent Air Depth concept, oxy- Instructors that assisted with input and gen toxicity, and nitrox equipment considerations. final review. The support materials for TDI’s Nitrox program have Divers Alert Network now offers three online “The manual is generously illustrated also been redesigned from the ground up. “What our seminars, addressing safety and health manual with excellent photographs and instructors will notice is that the instructor guide and issues of interest to divers. Courses are eas- diagrams, and the Inspiration / Evolution PowerPoint® materials have been structured in a way ily accessible through the DAN website. CCR product line is the first we have that will assist them to present the most complex con- The most recent addition to the online developed using multiple contributors cepts of Nitrox diving in a concise and organized fash- seminars is Inert Gas Exchange, Bubbles, and input from our complete product ion reflecting the needs of today’s diver education. and Decompression Theory, presented development team. There are currently TDI: [email protected] or (+1) 207-729-4201. ■ by Richard Vann Ph.D., DAN vice presi- several other CCR manuals in develop- dent of research, at a recent Diving and ment scheduled to be released within Hyperbaric Medicine course offered by the next six months. Although the project DAN. Participants can learn about inert gas took longer to develop than expected, exchange in the body and the affects we are very excited with the final prod- those bubbles can have on one’s dive. uct,” stated Brian Carney, President Open to the general public at a cost of SDI/TDI. “The student manual, of US$25, this online presentation takes Instructor Resource CD (Instructor 60-90 minutes to complete. Participants guide, exams, PowerPoint) and receive certificates of completion from workbook were designed to work DAN. See this presentation and others at in conjunction with manufactures www.diversalertnetwork.org ■ owner’s manual.” ■

15 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Celebrating Two Years Jelly Jellyfish Blooms linked of X-RAY MAG News to Global Warming

CRAIG SMITH, UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII New CD Edited by This summer thousands ent barrel-shaped creatures Peter Symes of holidaymakers in the called salps have also been 12 FULL issues for Mediterranean have been documented in recurring stung by jellyfish as huge dense swarms in waters all just US$14.99! swarms of the creatures over the globe. And they play invade coastal waters. a critical role in transporting Spanish beaches have been a greenhouse gas deep into closed, and Sicily and North the deep sea, scientists have Africa were also reported to found. be badly affected. A survey Phytoplankton extract the by the Oceana environmen- carbon from atmospheric tal group found concentra- carbon dioxide to build their tions of jellyfish of more than skeletons and shells. Salps A deep-sea stone crab living on a blue whale bone on the ocean 10 per square meter in some are among the larger crea- floor of the Santa Cruz Basin areas off the Spanish coast. tures that eat phytoplankton, Marine biologists blame hot consuming up to 74 percent dry weather for bringing jel- of them from the surface How Whaling Impacts lyfish closer to the shore, and water in a day. When the say overfishing may also be animals die or defecate, the increasing jellyfish numbers by carbon dissolves back into removing predators and com- the oceans. Just their sinking Deep-Sea Biodiversity petitors. Jellyfish are them- feecal pellets transport up to selves voracious eaters, and 4,000 tons of carbon daily to When the bodies of dead whales recent research project, Smith and suggested that species extinctions experts say that because they deeper water. Salps release sink to the ocean floor, they cre- his colleagues concluded that may have already occurred in the consume fish at a very high fecal pellets in deep water, Buy the CD ate island-like habitats for deep- there were at least 37 species—up North Atlantic where great whales rate, it may be hard for the where few animals consume sea life that last for decades, from 28 known—that could be were decimated in the 1800s. fish they replace to re-estab- them, making them efficient Help Save the Oceans! according to a recent study by whale-fall specialists. Extinction may also be ongoing lish themselves. transporters of carbon away A percent of all sales goes to Craig Smith at the University of in the Southern Ocean, where Meanwhile, semi-transpar- from the atmosphere. ■ Hawaii and his colleagues. So far, Succession intense whaling persisted until the ocean conservation projects. biologists have discovered 28 new Smith’s whale-sinking experiments 1970s. Makes a great gift for your species that may depend exclu- show that whale falls provide These findings highlight the need dive buddies and friends sively on whale carcasses for food. several successions of communi- to consider the effects of whaling Whaling, however, deprives the ties, one after another. First, the and other types of fishing on entire who love the oceans. ocean floor of this resource and mobile scavengers, such as sharks, ecosystems, rather than focuss- can cause the extinction of the eat the flesh of the dead whales, ing narrowly on target species. species dependent on the energy- thereby removing the soft tissue. “The possibility that whaling has To order, visit our rich carcasses of whales for sur- The remainder of the whale-fall is caused species extinctions at the new online store today! vival. bones. Second, the enrichment remote deep-sea floor gives me opportunists, such as worms and new appreciation for the scale of Whale falls crabs, land on the bones and live human impacts on the ocean,” “Whale falls” are the bodies of and reproduce there. says Smith. “We need to recognise X-RAY MAG dead whales after they have sunk Smith and his colleagues that the oceans consist of a stack to the deep sea floor. Whale-fall applied simple models from con- of tightly connected ecosystems STORE specialists are marine organisms servation biology to explore the – over-fishing or pollution in surface www.cafepress.com/xraymag which need whale-fall environ- impact of whaling on the extinc- waters is bound to cause problems ments to sustain their population tion of deep-sea animals that live thousands of metres below.” ■ and to avoid extinction. After a on whale carcasses. Their results DISCOUNTED WHOLESALE PRICES AVAILABLE

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16 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Red Sea parting, creat- ing new ocean because

FILEPHOTO: PETER SYMES of shifting of tectonic plates The Red Sea is widening to create a new ocean basin between Africa and Arabia, according to a report in Nature. A huge rift appeared in 2005 along a fault in Ethiopia’s Afar desert. Eritrea and north east Ethiopia are likely to become a new off- Restaurant with live fish, Malaysia shore island as the Red Sea widens and extends, but the process will take around a mil- lion years. ■ Live Fish Trade NASA Threatens Coral Reefs Twenty of the world’s leading The giant tropical Napoleon marine scientists have called for wrasse, which can live to 30 and tighter controls on the trade that grow to up to two metres long, is sees juvenile fish taken to tanks in almost extinct in the Indo-Pacific luxury restaurants, so that diners region and is now being hunted in can choose one to eat. Already the Red Sea and transported over under threat from global warm- 4,500 miles to the Far East. ing, the $1billion live reef fish The Napoleon wrasse has been trade could wipe out species virtually wiped out in the region, and destroy weakened reefs in and you don’t find any when div- the Indo-Pacific region around ing. It is estimated there are only The southern Red Sea with Pollution Threatens Coral the small areas where the scien- Dr Bette Willis, Centre of Malaysia and Borneo and even 100 adults left in the area. Most Ethiopia on the left Health by Preventing tists removed tissue for analysis. Excellence for Coral Reef Studies further afield. are caught when they are juve- The loss of coral harms natural scientist, says some reefs are It also threatens to destroy the niles when they are the size of a Lesions from Healing reef ecosystems and can hurt being hit by coral diseases, tourist diving industry in affected plate. Researchers reveal Florida’s tourism economy if divers including black band, white areas as endangered species They never get the chance underwater canyons Coral tissue damage that normal- decide to go elsewhere. Reefs plague, white pox and white could vanish and coral reefs crum- to breed. Strong international along New Jersey coast ly heals on its own will not mend also help to protect coastal areas syndrome. The diseases are pres- ble because tropical fish are being demand and liberal global trade when the colonies are near pollu- from hurricanes, as they break up ently restricted to small sections stunned with cyanide, laws means a single fish Just 100 miles off the New tion sources on land that release storm surge in the same manner of isolated reef, but the problem which also dam- can be worth $10,000 at Jersey-New York coast and industrial chemicals, fuel oils and that sea walls do. ■ could spread if global warming ages the the Hong Kong mar- hidden beneath hundreds other contaminants, researchers and water quality issues are not reef. kets that deal of feet of water, lies a vast from University of Central Florida continually addressed. with most underwater canyon, rivalling have found. The scientists have Coral Disease Outbreak “Strategies which maintain the of the Grand Caynon in size scientists used the equivalent of blood is Preventable resilience of the coral reefs are trade. ■ find. The area’s centerpiece is tests on humans to identify likely important and ways of managing the giant underwater chasm causes of low coral vitality near An Australian marine scientist coral disease. Otherwise we have called the Hudson Canyon, wastewater discharge pipes and says water quality management very few strategies -- we can’t which is the largest submarine the Port Everglades inlet. Coral plans and reef closures will help give them courses of antibiotics or canyon off the East Coast of that were growing near both protect the Great Barrier Reef off isolate them. It’s very difficult in a the United States and one of areas were found to be unable to Queensland’s coast from coral marine environment to use a tra- Napolean wrasse, the largest submarine canyons repair tissue damage, while coral disease outbreaks seen in other ditional strategy for disease man- Cheilinus undulatus in the world. ■ colonies at control sites healed parts of the world. agement,” said Dr Willis. ■ OCEANNENVIRONMENT 17 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED NASA’s SeaStar Satellite with the Sea-viewing Wide NASA Solves Plankton Field-of-view Sensor Mystery CA DEPT OF FISH AND GAME

“We concluded that nitrogen is Enough to make you want to swim with the primary element missing for your mouth closed? algae growth and photosynthe- A Chinese Mitten Crab 20,000 Kinds of Bacteria sis in the northern portion of the has been caught on tropical Pacific, while it was iron healthy looking phytoplankton are actu- ure represents a tremendous amount of the US East coast Found in 1 Liter of Seawater that was most lacking every- ally not so healthy. carbon that remains in the atmosphere In a paper published in Proceedings “Because we didn’t know about this that scientists previously thought were of the National Academy of Sciences where else.” effect of iron stress on the greenness being removed. Approximately, half of Marine Species Are Getting journal, scentiists reveal marine micro- of algae or phytoplankton before, we the photosynthesis on Earth occurs in the Out Of Place bial diversity may be some 10 to 100 By combining satellite data from NASA’s have always assumed that equally green oceans, and the remainder on land. times more than expected, and the Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor waters were equally productive,” said The results about the false health of While fishing his crab pots in early June, a vast majority are previously unknown, and ship-based measurements of fluo- Michael J. Behrenfeld, an ocean plant phytoplankton allow scientists using com- Chesapeake Bay fisherman hauled in an low-abundance organisms theorized rescence, scientists can now determine ecologist from Oregon State University, puter models to re-create the movement unusual catch, a mature male Chinese to play an important role in the marine what limits the growth of ocean algae, Corvallis, Oregon. “We now know this is of carbon around the world much more Mitten Crab, Eriocheir sinensis. It was the environment as part of a “rare bio- or phytoplankton, and how this affects not the case, and that we have to treat accurately, and can incorporate these first time anyone had ever reported finding sphere”. Earth’s climate. Fluorescence occurs areas lacking iron differently.” findings in future modeling, analysis and a Mitten Crab in Chesapeake Bay waters. “These observations blow away all when plants absorb sunlight and scientists The NASA sponsored study focused predictions. ■ Native to East Asia, the crab is significant previous estimates of bacterial diver- found that phytoplankton give off much on phytoplankton in the tropical Pacific as a potentially harmful invasive species sity in the ocean,” says lead author more fluorescence when the plants do Ocean. It is an area of the ocean that that has caused economic damage in Mitchell L. Sogin, director of the Marine not have sufficient iron. It is this signal plays a particularly important role in Europe and on the West Coast of the U.S. Biological Laboratory (MBL)’s Josephine they used to fingerprint what parts of the regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide There are several possible ways the crab Bay Paul Center for Comparative and ocean are iron-stressed and what parts and the world’s climate. This area of the could have arrived in the bay, including Molecular Biology and Evolution. are nitrogen-stressed. ocean is the largest natural source of imported seafood trade or commercial Microbes make up carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. By shipping in near-by Baltimore Harbor. ■ “These the majority of life in the Iron or Nitrogen? knowing what limits planktonic growth oceans and are described Scientists determined when phyto- scientists can better understand how Meanwhile observations as the “primary engines” plankton is stressed from lack of iron, it ecosystems respond to climate Tuna turned up on beaches in Wales, UK; blow away of the Earth’s biosphere. appears greener, or health- change. in Norway, the Kamchatka crab continues all previous Finding so many more ier than they really are. For the tropi- marching south; and tropi- species than expected Normally, greener plants cal Pacific, cor- cal lionfish are now often estimates fundamentally affects our are growing faster rection for this sighted off Rhode of bacterial understanding of how than less green plants. “iron-effect” Island on the US north- more complex life first When iron is lacking, decreases eastern seaboard. ■ diversity in evolved and also how cli- enhanced green- scientists’ esti- the ocean” mate change will impact ness does not mean mates of how Airborne imaging completes “For example one image may depict on its continued survival. phytoplankton are much carbon first digital map of Ningaloo substantial areas of pink and purple, Scientists now want to know how growing better. ocean plants which we know is an area dense with so many kinds of micro- organisms They are actually photosyn- Marine Park table corals. Where we see these shades evolved and survived, and what effect under stress and thesize for The images will be cross referenced with elsewhere along the vast tract of the they might have on the environment. ■ unhealthy. These the region by information gathered from the Australian reef, we can assume there are table conclusions solved roughly two bil- Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) under- corals.”said Dr Andrew Heyward of AIMS. the mystery why lion tons. This fig- water biological surveys, which include “The broad-scale data captured sets the dive expeditions and deep water inves- stage for exciting science projects. From tigations using video, sled sampling and this we will be able to separate out habi- acoustic echo sounders. tats and monitor change.” ■

18 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Poles Locate German WW2 Aircraft Carrier Australia: Graf Zeppelin in the Baltic Iron Knight Protected wreck The wreck of the SS Iron Knight, A search for oil in the Baltic sea has turned up A Polish Navy ship, sent to the site, identified the sunk in Australian waters during rap the wreck of the German World War Two aircraft wrecked ship as the Graf Zeppelin, which was the Second World War, will be pro- carrier Graf Zeppelin, whose whereabouts had captured by the Soviet navy, used for target tected as an historic shipwreck due been a mystery since it was sunk by the Soviet practice and sunk as part of a training exercise to its maritime heritage significance, navy after the war. A research ship belong- in 1947. The Graf Zeppelin was Germany’s only according to the Minister for the ing to Polish oil company Petrobaltic found the aircraft carrier in the war. Its final resting place Environment and Heritage, Senator 250-metre wreck 55 km north of the Polish port had been a mystery. ■ Ian Campbell. Wladyslawowo at a depth of more than 80m. Full article on www.xray-mag.com As part of a wartime convoy, the Australian cargo steamer SS Iron Knight was en route from Whyalla to Newcastle with a load of iron ore Ghosts of Jutland Exhibition Shipwrecks Off Coast of Helsinki when it was torpedoed and sunk by Russians Find a Japanese submarine in the early Wreckage of U.S. Ghosts of Jutland is a commemora- Contain Oil, Mercury and Explosives hours of 8 February 1943. tive exhibition onboard HMS Belfast, a “Of the 50 crew on board only Submarine branch of the Imperial War Museum Most of the 30-odd well known 14 survived. Although historic ship- and London’s floating naval museum, shipwrecks off the coast of wrecks in Australian waters are usu- Russian divers have spotted the was launched 31 May 2006, exactly Helsinki are old, badly decom- ally at least 75 years old, the SS Iron wreckage of a legendary U.S. 90 years to the day since the Battle of posed wooden vessels that fail to Knight deserves our protection as a submarine that was lost in the Jutland took place during WWI. The offer much excitement for rec- war grave of the lost crew,” Senator Pacific in 1943, a Russian news tragedy of the Western Front and the reational divers. But thanks to the Campbell said. agency ITAR-Tass reported. Battle of the Somme has perhaps overshadowed that of the Battle drop in price of side scan sonar, “I consider vessels such as SS Iron A diving team from the Far of Jutland and this exhibition has been specially curated to com- which enables a more precise Knight, sunk during enemy action in Eastern State Technological memorate the 8,648 British and German sailors lost over the course mapping of the seabed, private the Second World War, to be a sig- University in Vladivostok found of one day. The exhibition will be on display until 2007. groups hunting for shipwrecks as nificant part of Australia’s maritime the USS Wahoo in the La Fought in the summer of 1916, Jutland was the only major encoun- a hobby will most likely locate heritage, and so I have declared the Perouse Strait and took pictures ter between Britain and Germany at sea during World War One, and new wrecks. But not all the wrecks vessel an historic shipwreck to ensure of it during a recent expedition. the last one in which all the classic ship types played their parts (Bat- are open for recreational diving its protection now and for future gen- Under the command of tleships, Battlecruisers, Armoured Cruisers, Light Cruisers and Destroy- purposes. Particularly dangerous erations.” Dudley “Mush” Morton, the ers). Today, it remains the largest naval conflagration ever to have are warships and vessels contain- The Historic Shipwrecks Act of 1976 Wahoo became one of the taken place, bigger even than the massive battles in the Pacific in ing oil. Finland’s Environmental aims to protect maritime archaeo- most famous U.S. submarines of World War II. So much was expected of Jutland, and yet so little Administration has estimated that logical sites, while encouraging pub- World War II. With 19 Japanese resulted. The end was a bloody draw with a tragic butcher’s bill for there are around 40 wrecks in lic access to them. The Act prohibits ships sunk, Morton was ranked both countries. The battle may have only raged for 24 hours, but dur- Finland’s territorial waters present- damage, interference or removal of as one of the war’s top three ing this period, twenty-five ships (14 British and 11 German) were sunk ing a threat of an oil spill. FINNISH NATIONAL BOARD OF ANTIQUITIES historic shipwrecks and their associ- sub skippers. and 8,648 sailors died. Old warships provide an alto- The best-preserved wreck outside ated relics. The Wahoo was sunk by the For Britain, Jutland was meant to be the next Trafalgar and confir- gether different risk. Most of them of Helsinki is the Swedish warship The discovery of the wreck of the Japanese navy as it returned mation that she still ruled the waves. Whilst the Germans expected sank in full combat readiness. Kronprins Gustav Adolf, around which SS Iron Knight was made by a team from its seventh patrol on Oct. the High Seas Fleet to achieve supremacy of the North Sea by attri- During World War II, there were the Maritime Museum of Finland has of specialist divers from The Sydney 11, 1943. All 79 crewmen died. ■ tion—repeatedly attacking the Grand Fleet. Instead, the battle was more sea mines in the Gulf of constructed an underwater park with Project dive team 22 miles south of a shambles. ■ Finland outside Helsinki than any- signs and visitors’ books Montague Island, off the coast of where else in the world due to NSW, in 125 metres of water. ■ Based on a the German desire to keep the a Russian mine and went down in contribution by Russian fleet tied up in harbour. 1941 with the loss of 40 of its crew. Rosemary E Lunn. The minelayer Königin Luise is pre- The mine clearance equipment Find her Jutland sumably the most unpredictable may also contain mercury. Wrecks Treaty wreck off the coast of Helsinki, Many of the warship wreck Proposal on and diving to the vessel is forbid- locations have not been revealed xray-mag.com den. It contains depth charges, to the general public. Most of among other things. There is them belong to the Defence debris spread over a large area Forces, until one hundred years around the ship. The vessel struck have passed from the sinking. ■

19 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Wreck’s Discovery Revives Unusual Survival Tale Ancient ship- Artificial Reefs wreck The ocean has revealed a secret 120 years wrecks found in Two vessels scuttled at rap old on the most remote island in the Hawaiian Xatt l-Ahmar, Gozo chain. Malaysia The wreck of the full-rigged ship Dunotter Two decommissioned passen- Castle, which sank on the reef off Kure Atoll 120 Three ship- ger ferries were sunk as artificial years ago, has been found surprisingly intact 25 wrecks reefs for divers off the Maltese feet below the surface. including Island of Gozo in August as part The wreck made headlines in 1886 after seven one resem- of a European Union funded survivors sailed 52 days and 1,200 miles in an bling a project to boost tourism in open boat and were picked up off Kaua’i. A Portuguese the area. The two vessels, MV voyage to rescue crew members remaining warship Karwela and the MV Comino on Kure set out the next day via the steamer have been Land, sank upright within 50m of Odyssey Marine to Wai’ale’ale. ■ discovered each other at a depth of 36m. It in the Straits took more than seven hours for Move New Orleans of Malacca. the 56m-long MV Karwela and

Shipwreck Attraction Well- WWW.MARITIME-EXPLORATIONS.COM 35m-long MV Comino Land to known Bronze cannon with sink at Ix-Xatt I-Ahmar, Gozo. ■ Odyssey’s Shipwreck & Treasure Andrea Doria Wreck Turns 50 Australian lifting rings SOURCE: MALTAMEDIA NEWS Adventure will close in September maritime 2006 due to the continuing eco- On July 25, 1956, while sail- Strong currents and heavy sedi- especially when operating at that archaeologist Dr Michael Flecker, Old subway cars nomic and business difficulties in ing off the coast of Nantucket, ment seriously reduce visibility to depth. who has carried out more than become fish habitat the area since Hurricane Katrina. Massachusetts bound for near zero and add serious risk to Because the wreck is gradu- 100 explorations in numerous Up to 250 old New York City sub- Odyssey plans to re-open the New York City, the luxury liner the dive. The main difficulty lies ally disintegrating and the inte- countries around the region, way cars will become artificial attraction in another market later Andrea Doria collided with the in the depth and the cold water. rior shell collapsing, many of its made the discovery last year reefs off New Jersey Atlantic in 2006. The attraction originally SS Stockholm of the Swedish- Also, a nearly invisible spiderweb passageways are also caving in. using sonar for a blanket survey Coast adding to the 140 ships opened in New Orleans on August American Line. Most passengers of very fine fishing lines cov- The wreck’s distance from land is along the Straits. The location and that have been deployed in the 27, 2005, but closed almost immedi- and crew survived. The evacu- ers parts of the wreck and can another issue as decompression authenticity was later confirmed Jersey deep along with Army ately due to Hurricane Katrina. The ated Andrea Doria capsized and become entangled with scuba sickness has claimed a number of through dives. He said the warship tanks, reef balls and tires since attraction re-opened in early 2006, sank the following morning. It has gear causing problems for divers victims. ■ was located in an area between the program’s start in 1984. ■ along with many other businesses since become one of the most UNITED STATES COAST GUARD Pulau Upeh and Pulau Panjang who hoped to help bring the tourism legendary wrecks in the world off the coast of Malacca and at The recent scutling of patrol industry back to life in the city. ■ alluring challenge seeking divers another location, two vessels lying boats off Cozumel from afar and sometimes to an side by side was found, though untimely death. Numerous are the precise locations are undis- Ancient treasures from the divers who have lost their closed to prevent looting. shipwrecks on display lives diving the wreck (see the Dr Flecker said, although his Obituary over shipwreck expert findings were very preliminary, he in Vietnam David Brigh) and diving conditions was excited about the prospect at the wreck site are considered of possibly finding what could be Ancient treasures from five ships even more dangerous today. the oldest European ship found in sunken in Vietnam’s waters are The shipwreck lies in an area of Malaysian waters. The ship could now on display for the first time at the Atlantic called the Bermuda be a Portuguese ship, under the the Can Tho City Museum and the Triangle of the Northeast—50 miles command of Admiral Coutinho, Vietnam History Museum. On show south of Nantucket, MA, and 200 which sank in 1583 during a bat- are many documentary films and miles east of Sandy Hook, NJ in tle. photos as well as more than 400 the US. When it sank, the top por- He also revealed pictures he artifacts selected from about 10,000 tion of the Andrea Doria was 150 had taken of cannons, cannon items retrieved from the five sunken feet deep. The top section is now balls, bones of animals that were vessels off Quang Nam, Ba Ria- at 190 feet, and the hull rests at consumed on the ships and bro- Vung Tau, Kien Giang, Binh Thuan 240 feet, much deeper than the ken Ming dynasty porcelain. ■ and Ca Mau provinces. The exhi- scope of recreational diving. bition is open until the end of this year. ■

20 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Live Broadcast From NOAA Russian Divers locate his- Historic US Schooner toric wreck in the Arctic

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Russian divers claim they have Sanctuary conducted two 30 minute live found the wreck of a Soviet ship, wireless broadcasts from the shipwreck which sank attempting a historic of the coal schooner Frank A. Palmer. journey along the Arctic coast in Viewers at the Gloucester Maritime 1934. It was supposed to show that Heritage Center in Gloucester, MA, the a normal vessel—rather than an Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center icebreaker—could complete the in Alpena, MI, and over the World Wide journey from Murmansk in north- Web, watched live underwater video western Russia to Vladivostok in rescue operation where more than and asked the research team questions the Pacific Ocean. However, as 100 of the crew were rescued by as they investigated the shipwreck. ■ the Chelyuskin neared the end of pilots who were hailed as heroes. its journey in December 1933, it Artifacts from the wreck are to be became trapped in ice and even- sent to Denmark, where the ship tually sank in February 1934. But the was built, to confirm its identity. ■ Viewers get a live peek at failure became a triumph after the SOURCE: BBC Monitor wreckage Scientists Say Hunley’s Forward Hatch Was An expedition to the site of the wreck of Michigan Divers locate SS Hennepin The K-19 ballistic missile sub was also the star feature the Civil War ironclad off North Carolina’s Unlocked of a Hollywood film called ‘K-19: The Widow Maker’ Cape Hatteras was broadcast live from vitually intact at 200ft featuring Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson. a University of Rhode Island research ves- Scientists say they may have found a sel, Endeavor. It could be seen on the clue as to why the Confederate subma- member and Internet, at www.oceanslive.org, and at rine Hunley sank after sinking a Union search assistant. K-19 Missile Crew Honored, the theater inside Nauticus. warship in 1864. Archaeologists in North “The A-frame arm Sub to be Restored Charleston working to restore the sub- that moved the

NOAA marine recovered six years ago from the cargo conveyor In memory of their sacrifice and valor, golden Atlantic Ocean off Sullivans Island have is there, the con- anniversary medals were awarded to Russian found evidence the forward hatch may veyor rollers and veteran sailors, who served on the famous nuclear- have been intentionally opened the even the ship’s power submarine K-19, ITAR-TASS reports. The K-19, night the sub sank. wheel.” The ship the first Soviet submarine to carry ballistic missiles, The forward hatch is one of two ways The well-preserved remains of the was being towed by a tugboat was on its first training voyage in the North Atlantic crew members got in and out. The group SS Hennepin, a Milwaukee-built, from Chicago to Grand Haven in 1961, when its reactor cooling system sprang a Friends of the Hunley says X-rays show the 208-foot-long vessel that sank dur- when it sank during a storm. The leak, sending the core temperature soaring and hatch is open about half an inch. Earlier ing an Aug. 18, 1927, storm, has captain and his 13-member crew threatened a meltdown. The captain and 139- reports said rods that could have been been found by Michigan Shipwreck survived by abandoning the vessel, man crew stayed on board to repair the system part of the watertight locking mechanism Research Associates. Members of which took about four hours to sink, and to prevent a nuclear catastrophe, exposing were found at the feet of the sub’s com- the group who searches for and for the safety of the tug. ■ themselves to severe radiation. Eight died within mander, Lieutenant George Dixon. documents shipwrecks, stated they www.michiganshipwrecks.org weeks, 12 died over the next two years and 20 This remote-controlled submersible is one of two Scientists also speculate the hatch located the Hennepin upright suffered longer-term illnesses. Today, K-19 crew is that are shooting images of the USS Monitor could have been damaged after the sub in 230 feet of water off South nominated for Nobel Peace Prize. In a recent twist wreckage to create a huge photomosaic sank. ■ Haven. of the tale of the K-19, the Russian oligarch and bil- Just months after its historic battle with The Hennepin was a steamer lionaire Vladimir Romanov, has bought the legen- the Confederate ironclad CSS Virginia built in Milwaukee in 1888. It dary Soviet nuclear submarine, which he plans to in Hampton Roads, the Monitor sank in was later transformed into the have restored and turned into a museum, possibly 1862 in a storm off Hatteras, with the loss Great Lakes’ first self-unloader, on the Moscow River. Mr Romanov did his own of 16 lives. The wreck was discovered in a cargo ship with an A-shaped military service on the K-19 from 1966-69. When he the 1970s. It’s a marine sanctuary now, crane and a series of convey- heard that it had fallen into disrepair, he felt it was and recovery work is ongoing as the iron ors that made it faster and important to put back into the water. and wood are slowly degrading. The war- easier to unload its contents. In turning the vessel into a museum, he is fulfilling ship’s revolving turret was brought to the “It’s in perfect condition,” said the wishes of the K-19’s late captain Nikolai Zateev

surface in 2002 and is being preserved at NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER Craig Rich, a group board on whose watch the nuclear accident occurred. ■ MICHIGAN SHIPWRECK RESEARCH ASSOCIATES the Mariner’s Museum in Newport. ■ H.L. Hunley was a Confederate submersible

21 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED New Oceanography Centers and Vessels

Oceanography Center New Oceanography On Hawaii Gets US$19 Centre in Portugal Million Grant Construction of the Sagres Oceanography Centre, located close to the Porto da Baleeira, will A new federal 5-year grant will get underway by the end of the help fund a University of Hawaii-led year. The centre will include an center focusing on the study of mi- aquarium dedicated to marine croscopic organisms in the world’s wildlife, a feature within the muse- oceans. The project is expected um area that will also boast vari- NOAA Accepts Delivery to help uncover new technolo- ous thematic sections dedicated of New Fisheries Survey gies and to educate scientists and to the water cycle and a small Vessel engineers. auditorium. It is due to open to the “We are on the verge of a revo- public at the end of 2008. ■ NOAA took delivery of Henry B. lution in our understanding of the Bigelow, one of a new class of fisher- sea around us, especially the role ies survey vessels being built under of microbes in global ecosystem Oregon-based coastal contract with VT Halter Marine Inc., processes,” said David Karl, a UH- research center funded in Pascagoula, MS. The vessel will Manoa oceanography professor The National Science Foundation support NOAA research efforts in and principal investigator for the has selected Oregon Health & conservation and management new center. The University of Ha- Science University to become the of fisheries and marine ecosystems waii has already committed $12 first Science and Technology Center primarily in northeastern U.S. waters, million for the first five years. The to focus on coastal margins and replacing the 45-year old Albatross Agouron Institute and the Gordon river-to-coast transition. The five-year IV. The ship will be home ported in and Betty Moore Foundation are program may be extended into a New England, although a perma- also providing funding. ■ $39 million, 10-year program. ■ nent base has not been named. ■

Venus - Your Internet Connection to the Ocean Floor VENUS, The Victoria Experimental body on the seafloor. Check Research Network Under the Sea, is a facil- Highlights and read why VENUS de- ity that connects you to underwa- ployed a dead pig near our underwa- ter instruments on the ocean floor ter camera. near Victoria and Vancouver, British Designed as an undersea laboratory Columbia, Canada. for ocean researchers, you can exam- ine their research and see the same CSI Undersea? data yourself through this website. ■ Find out what happens to a dead www.venus.uvic.ca

22 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED EU Funds New Hyperbaric Latest Trend their diving holiday. Each safari is unique Chamber for Dominica In Red Sea Liveaboards: in its own right, with as many as 15 differ- ent wrecks to be explored within a one Travel News The tourism sector in Dominica has received a major boost Wreck Safaris in Luxury week safari depending on the itinerary. with the installation of a hyperbaric chamber at the Princess Blue o two and Collings run two wreck Margaret Hospital. Funded by the European Union under the hunting weeks every year, often enlisting Eco-Tourism Development Programme at a cost of $750,000, experts in the field of side scan promoting the well equipped and functional facility will be used for impromptu workshops detailing the art of treating emergencies associated with scuba diving. ■ wreck location and exploration. In 2005 alone, 12 new wrecks were added to the growing list. The last two expeditions have netted 7 and 5 new wrecks respectively. Ship’s scuttling brings Construction Projects on Sipadan “Terminated” Following his devotion to wrecks, in tourism dollars by Willy Volk Collings has been the vanguard to the record of over 60 wrecks that are current- The Queensland Tourism Minister After the press coverage and public out- island’s) eco-system. We will announce ly dived by sport divers on a regular basis Desley Boyle, says the scut- cry concerning the barge that destroyed it two or three months from now,” he with over 20 further target spots identi- tling of HMAS Brisbane off the a section of Sipadan’s reef last May, said this week. Considering ample rest IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BLUE O TWO fied by Collings for exploration. Even in Sunshine Coast has raked in a Malaysian officials have finally agreed to areas exist on neighboring islands, I don’t Over the last decades, the Red Sea has 2006, the Red Sea will remain a mysterious million dollars in tourism revenue. halt all major construction on the island. understand the need for these facilities, become one of the most popular div- arena, ripe for adventure and exploration. The former Navy ship was sunk a The restaurant and clubhouse that were but Musa insists they’re essential. ■ ing destinations in the world. Divers from Further information: www.blueotwo.com ■ year ago to create a dive site. across the globe congregate to experi- “There is also the amazing story ence the crystal clear waters and abun- of the artificial reef that has dance of marine life. The attraction grown at a great rate around stems not only from the unique marine the wreck, very much faster than ecosystem, but also from the plethora had been predicted,” she said. ■ of shipwrecks that lay in rest stretch- ing from the Gulf of Suez to the eastern New Zealand Far Straits of Tiran, and reaching as far south North Gets Frigate for to where the Red Sea meets the Indian Ocean. Artificial Reef The UK-based tour operator Blue o The Far North district has won the two has now taken Red Sea liveaboard

right to scuttle the decommis- PETER SYMES to a new evolutionary level by introduc- sioned naval frigate HMNZS Can- ing the next generation in liveaboard terbury in the Bay of Islands. Far being constructed to serve visiting divers More divers going to Sipadan vessels and offering built-in adventurous IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BLUE O TWO North Mayor Yvonne Sharp said have been “terminated with immedi- safaris with one mission in mind—wreck Minister of Defence Phil Goff had ate effect,” Chief Minister Datuk Musa illegally hunting. Joining forces with renowned told her that it was the strength of Aman announced yesterday. Moreover, explorer Peter Collings, their escorted community support for the trust’s the entire Sabah Parks—the agency The permitted number of divers on safaris are an introduction to wreck explo- bid that had impressed him. ■ that oversees Sipadan as well as some Sipadan per day is 120, but dive opera- ration, presenting divers with the oppor- other parks and islands in Malaysia—will tors have been taking as many 200 divers tunity to develop an entirely new diving SA plans “Cape receive a “management revamp,” due daily, according to a recent consultant’s interest and add a definite purpose to Peninsula Historical to its bungling of the incident. In other report, writes the Malaysian daily The Star. words: heads are gonna roll. (The Sabah The state government has tried to put Shipwreck Route” Parks website is out of service, at the a stop to divers entering Sipadan without The South African Heritage moment; I don’t know if that’s related or permits. This has led to friction between Resources Agency and the South not.) dive operators and Sabah Parks officials, African Maritime Museum are Nevertheless, the Chief Minister did resulting in divers being evicted for enter- currently planning a wreck route admit that officials were still planning to ing the area without proper permit. In consisting of a series of informa- implement severely scaled-down facili- January, the daily average of divers to the tion signboards or story boards ties for divers, involving eco-friendly toilets island was 141 and the number rose to 159 erected at important or interest- and a small rest area. “We will come up in February. It then went up to an average ing historical wreck sites along a with a new development concept that of 219 a day in March, 235 in April and 201 stretch of coastline. ■ is environmental- friendly and suits (the in May. ■ IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BLUE O TWO

23 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Dive Tutukaka Wins The Situation in Thailand Following the Coup Legends Week Postponed to May Supreme Tourism Award Mike Stark of Scuba Cat Diving in Thailand sent an inside report: ‘Legends Week’ is the brain child of world record deep New Zealand’s largest dive char- WIKIPEDIA diver Mark Andrews, the emphasis being on a master ter operator, Dive Tutukaka, has Obviously after the recent coup Give us a break! won the supreme Tourism Industry in Bangkok, there is a desire for class role by ten of the world’s leading divers in their field. Association award for 2006. Only factual information on what The unfolding event is fairly set up six years ago, Dive Tutukaka is happening in Thailand and routine in Thai history and is the All of the ‘legends’ will be attending based on achievements made in has won a string of awards. Last Phuket in particular. logical conclusion to the politi- the diving industry, some will be world record holders, some involved year it won the Qualmark Tourism To sum things up at the cal impasse of the past year in in developing specialist equipment and others working in specialist Mark of Quality award. ■ present, life goes on pretty which one man’s ego is hold- fields such as commercial/military training. much as normal. My daughter ing up an entire nation. The legends week will enable guests to interact with diving ‘leg- is having an unwelcomed day At this moment, there has ends’ on a level never before obtainable. The week long event will Ginnie Springs off from school, but I got a good been absolutely no violence Sonthi Boonyaratglin Commander-in- include five days diving. The time table will allow for all guests to dive 30th Anniversary bicycle ride in. There is a little and most likely will be none. Chief of the Royal Thai Army became with each of the ‘legends’ at least once during the five days of diving. 2006 marks the 30th Anniversary less traffic on the roads, which is The world’s press and interna- the de facto head of government of As well as diving, there will be nightly lectures from the ‘legends’ on for Ginnie Springs and would like also kind of nice. tional leaders are frothing at Thailand after a coup d’état on Sept 19 their chosen subject as well as workshops for equipment configuration, to thank everyone for visiting with In any case, please do not the mouth about the Thai mili- photography and expedition planning among others. them over the last thirty year. rely on television networks such tary destroying a major democ- forward quickly—the deadlock The event in Meridien Hotel in Dahab Egypt was scheduled for 9-16 Watch their website www.ginnie- as CNN or even BBC for unbi- racy. is finally over. December but has now been moved to May due to the hotel not springsoutdoors.com for anniver- ased news. Let’s face it—good This is wrong—the Administrative Please remember that the being ready. The Meridien is the newest luxury hotel in Dahab and sary events. ■ news to them is boring, so no Reform Council (ARC) is made previous government, while offers the perfect setting for such a prestigious event. point in letting the truth get in up of the very highest and most being democratically elected, Hosting the event will be Poseidon Dive Centre, spon- The Airbus A380 Took the way of a good story! Did we patriotic members of Thai socie- certainly did not rule in a demo- soring the event with use of the dive centre facilities Off From Toulouse on ever learn that after the tsu- ty—the ones that cratic manner. including arrangement of all diving activities and nami! To sum things have not sold For more information please logistics. ‘Legends’ for the week include such First Passenger Flight Watching BBC the other out to greed and see the link below and rest names as: Pascal Bernabe, Jack Ingle, Leigh The Airbus A380 has taken off for night, even as they were up at the desire. The ARC assured that your visit to Cunningham, Monty Halls, Paul Haynes, the first time with 474 passengers showing the speeches at present life goes is trying to restore Thailand will be a fun and relax- Dan Burton, Bob Evans, Rick Stanton and on board for the first in a series the UN, the words BANGKOK democracy in ing as ever. ■ Phil Short. ■ www.poseidontechnical.com/ of four long flights or “Early Long TANKS were splashed across on pretty much Thailand and —Mike Stark legends Flights”. During the flights, the the screen. as normal pledges to move Scuba Cat Diving Leigh Cunningham also runs X-Ray’s passengers, comprised of Airbus regular “Technical Matters” column employees and cabin experts put the cabin through its paces. ■ Ocean Quest New Liveaboard to be lauched ...with a slight delay Emperor Divers, Egypt to Phuket Underwater Duty Free Items Park Ready for Divers Divers Den writes: liveaboard dive trips day trips,and offering The New OceanQuest Offer Child Care While Mum In the US, due to enhanced secu- Due to unforeseen cir- or OceanQuest livea- overnight trips on Taka will commence and Dad Are Out Diving Sculptures worth 4 million rity measures, duty free items cumstances we can- board dive courses. and Spirit of Freedom, operations on 20th baht have been placed on are now only permitted if deliv- not at the present time We are still running please contact us for December 2006. ■ Mums and Dads can now enjoy guilt- the seabed at a depth of 15 ered directly onto the aircraft. offer OceanQuest all PADI courses on full information. free diving, knowing their children are meters close to Koh Racha Yai, However, passengers making being cared for in a safe, professional Phuket, and are being promot- connections from international environment. Recent feedback from div- ed as a special “must see” site to domestic flights must transfer ing sources pinpointed a distinct lack of for divers in the coming high the items to their checked bag facilities for families who want to combine season. before boarding their flight. At diving with a family holiday. So, Emperor Phuket Diving Park, as the site “pre-clearance airports” passen- Divers, the Red Sea specialist diving com- is now known, features sculp- gers must put duty free items into pany with six dive centres throughout the tures including Thai demons their checked luggage since the area, listened and has now responded (yak), traditional decorative aircraft deplanes behind passen- by providing a dedicated crèche and arches, a sala, two elephants ger security checkpoints. Most liq- kids camp service in conjunction with the and a giant pearl oyster. ■ uids, gels, lotions and other items highly respected company, Family Diving SOURCE: PHUKET GAZETTE of similar consistency will not be Limited. ■ www.emperordivers.com permitted in carry-on baggage. ■

24 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED whales & dolphins

Edited by Gunild Symes Killer Whales Kiss and Make Up Researchers have discovered that killer of aggression in most animal species are dination during echelon swimming rounds. whales reconcile their differences after followed by a cooling-off period when Noonan claims that this discovery opens a squabbles. behavior can gradually return to normal. window for further study into the evolution Based on findings from 2,800 hourse This is seen in human beings who have spe- of peacemaking in complex societies. Whales Can Age Up To 200 Years of video-taped observation, Dr Michael cial pro-social behaviors that speed up the Although killer whales do not often dis- Noonan, Professor of Animal Behaviorat process of moving towards reconciliation. play aggressive behavior toward other Scientists who have studied the eye tissues (60 ft) in length and weigh up to 89 metric Canisius College found significant indica- Scientists say that similar behaviors individuals in a group, the researchers of Bowhead whales say that some of these tons (100 tons). tors that individuals would separate for 10 appear to play an important role in some were able to identify 21 squabbles rare creatures can live to 200 years old. In 1946, the International Whaling Com- minutes after an obvious quarrel, usually primate species such as macaques and and investigate whether the pos- Jeffrey Bada, marine chemist at Scripps mission banned the commercial whaling of between a father and mother, after which chimpanzees. sibility of reconciliation might Institution of Oceanography in la Jolla, bowheads. However, Inupiat Eskimos are the pair would reunite for a 10 minute peri- The new findings from the whale study occur in the species. ■ California, USA, told National Geographic allowed a certain number to hunt for food od of sinchronous swimming side by side, suggest that the whales experience a re- News that around 5 percent of the popu- and oil which maintains in their traditional or echelon. establishment of social bonds through their lation are over 100 years old with some way of life. It has long been thought that periods close physical proximity and precise coor- reaching 160 and 180 years. Bada claims The Eskimos used stone harpoons to hunt that the whales may be the most aged these whales up to 1870, a practice that animals on the planet. disappeared when Europeans came to Are Dolphins really Dumb? Bowheads, which are also called Green- the Arctic. However, whale hunts in the land right whales, are a type of baleen 1990s revealed some with stone harpoons Australian scientists are split over controver- apart with not much obsta- whale that have bonelike plates that strain in them. Scientists deducted from this that sial research claiming that dolphins are not cle to jump over the bound- food from the sea rather than teeth. They some of the whales may be a hundred as smart as commonly thought. ary, the dolphins will never jump over. are in contact live in the Arctic region and can reach 18m years old. ■ According to Paul Manger, a South While a goldfish or even a lab rat will want and that the male alli- JASON HELLER African scientist from the University of to climb out or jump out of its confinement. ances within a group are in Witwatersrand, the large brains of dolphins Manger states that the structur of the constant flux suggesting some sort and whales are not a sign of intelligence dolphin brain is not built for processing of brain capacity is in play. Fossil Whale Was “T-Rex” but assist the warm-blooded species cope complex information. The controvesy seems to put people in cold water. However, critics of the report say that up in arms say the Australian Dolphin Manger goes so far as to argue that dolphins under study display the most Research Institute officials who agree that of the Sea the dolphin is no smarter than a lab rat or complex social behaviour outside the there is something special about dolphins goldfish. He told the Daily Telegraph realm of human beings. Researcher who that has fascinated people for thousands Today’s gentle filter-feeder baleen hunted and evolved into species such that if a dolphin is placed in a work with the species argue that the dol- of year even though there islittle evidence whales may have evolved from a fero- as the killer whale, dolphin and sperm marine park with dividers phins appear to be thinking and reacting that they are as intelligent as everyone cious beast with razor sharp teeth, whale. to keep other dolphins to stimuli and the humans with whom they wants to believe. ■ say Australian researchers in a recent The new research, which appeared in study of a 25 million year old fossil skill Prodeeding of the Royal Society B, sug- uncovered among the cliffs of Southern gests that the baleen whale’s ancestor Australia. may have been one of these latter class The specimen, which was unveiled at hunting relatives. The ancient species had the Melbourne Museum this year, is called large teeth to catch and eat large prey Janjucetus hunderi. including sharks and large fish according Prior to the finding, whales had been to researchers at the Victoria Museum divided into two groups by researchers: and Monash University where the study filter-feeders and whales with teeth that was done. SOURCE: DISCOVERY CHANNEL ■

25 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Beluga whales: half Russian, half whales Thames Whale Had Arthritis Canadian A whale which lost its way in the ing toward the west to the Atlantic It has been discovered that beluga whales in Thames River in England was dis- Ocean to feed on deep sea squid Canada actually spend half their lives in Russian covered to have arthritis. but lost her way taking a wrong waters according to a research team that used Edited by Researchers from the Natural turn that landed her near the Chel- aboriginal know-how and high-tech equipment Gunild Symes History Museum who studied the sea Bridge in central London. in the study. ■ 11-year-old female northern bot- Later examination of the whale tlenose whale found that the crea- found that she was dehydrated Beluga Whale Population Dwindling ture was suffering from severe pain and starving for around a week Pollution, conflict with human activities, global Whales, Dolphins in her neck. before dying. Also her bones and warming and loss of food sources have been The 5.85m (19.2ft) whale was joinst in her spine and skull dis- cited as possible reasons for the decline of the first sightedin January after swim- played the indications of a degen- beluga whale population in Canada. ■ Turning Up in ming into the North Sea and up erative joint disease similar to what the Thames. Rescuers attempted humans call arthitis. The whale was Weird Places to take it towards deeper waters, unable to rehydrate due to the Manatee Pelvic Bones Hold Gene Unusually large numbers of whales NOAA but the whale died during the at- lack of a normal squid diet. ■ Key to Evolution of Leglessness and dolphins are showing up off tempt. It is thought she was head- Scotland’s east coast. Scientists Right Habitat for Right Whales Stanford University researcher David Kingsley, attribute the increase to the current PhD, discovered a link in gene mutations across heatwave as warmer water tempera- The U.S. federal government has designated New Methods for Discovering Whales’ Age a wide field of animals after weighing 114 pairs of tures lure the marine mammals further a region of thousands of square miles of sea manatee pelvic bones. He found the left pelvic north than they normally migrate. off the state of Alaska as critical habitat for Age study of humpback whales for their slaughter. Up to now, killing bone outweighed the right in almost every case Researchers from the Sea Watch the North Pacific right whales, which are may help save them. Researchers whales for science was justified. by an average of 10 percent, which suggests Foundation state that Aberdeenshire considered the most endangered whale have found a way to discover the Although it only applies to certain that mutations in the same gene may be the key and Moray Firth seem to be particular species in the world. Some 36,750 square age of a whale without involving its whale that do not have teeth such to the evolution of leglessness in animals that hot spots for the creatures, including miles in the Bering Sea and the Gulf of death before hand. as the humpback. Whales who can be as distantly related as tiny fish in lakes more minke whales than usual. Alaska are now protected habitat for the Previously, the only way to find have teeth can be studied for age and streams around the world and the 1,000- Other sightings include a fin whale right whales, whose numbers that reached out how old some whales were was while still alive. pound manatees in Florida. ■ at North Berwick, a pilot whale at at least 11,000 were dessimated by commer- to count the layers of wax in their Ironically, killing certain whales for St Cyrus and six Risso’s dolphins off cial whalers who prized the marine mam- ears. This could only be doen if the scientific study to learn more about Manatees Can Be Trained Gifleness near Aberdean with large mals for their oil and baleen. In 1973, the animal was dead. the ages of whales assisted scien- According to Universiy of Florida neuroscientist groups of white-beaked dolphins whales were listed as endangered and are Now, researchers can test the tists to find out how their popula- and co-author of The Florida Manatee: Biology sighted further offshore. A hump- thought to number less than 100 individu- dead skin flakes that whales leave tions where affected by humans and Conservation, Roger Reep, manatees are back whales was seen in the Outer als off the coast of Alaska, with a few hun- in the sea in order to calculate the killing them for commercial gain. not only trainable, they’re as smart as dolphins Hebrides and dozens of common dol- dred more that may dwell near Russia. Their whale’s age. Which makes killing Now this practice can change for only slower and less motivated by fish treats. ■ phins were sighted at Fraserburgh. ■ recovery is still tenuous say NOAA officials. ■ whale for science a moot reason the benefit of the whales. ■

�����Puts More Ogle in Your Goggle! Japan is killing pregnant whales Flat masks block over 75% of your natural field-of-view. Enjoy natural The next generation of whales is tional reported that 853 minke died. panoramic vision. See almost 5X more through a Double-Dome™ lens being slaughtered by Japanese whales and 10 fine whales were The overall death toll in whales perfected with NASA technology. NanoFOG™ coating, applied at the whalers who capture and kill killed. In this group there were killed by the Japanese scientific factory, ensures fog-free dives. Only naturally nearsighted divers (broad a large number of these sea 391 female minke whales of whaling program in Antarctica Rx range) can use the MEGA® 4.5DD mask with their naked eyes. But over giants who are pregnant. which 224 were carrying 227 over the summer was 1092 ac- 700 divers around the world with 20/20 vision wear disposable contact A report issued by the Japa- fetuses. cording to society statistics who lenses to use this mask. These divers become temporarily nearsighted. The nese government stated that In addition, two of the fin also reported that 90 percent incredible view is worth the effort. Endorsed by 1,000 eye doctors worldwide. 60 percent of all female whales whales were pregnant with one of the whales killed were taken Older divers love the Magic Bifocal phenomenon. Seeing is believing! killed in Antarctica over the sum- fetus each. Three more female from the Australian Whale Sanc- mer were pregnant. minke whales were lactating. It tuary. ■ The Human Society Interna- is assumed that their calves also

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26 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED Loggerheads Make a Comback news Along Italy’s Coast Appearing in increasing numbers ered even though the turtles’ main along the southern shores of Italy, nesting areas are along the coasts Edited by loggerhead sea turtles are be- of Turkey, Libya and Cyprus. Gunild Symes TURTLES ing spotted in the waters off Sicily, While this is good news, scien- Calabriea, Publia and Sardinia tists warn that the Loggerhead according to reports by Italien is increasingly under threat from Sea Turtles Gone Wild scientists to the local news agency destructive fishing practices, ship- ANSA. In addition, more than 15 ping traffic, pollution and habitat Scientists from the US National Oceanic and nesting sites have been discov- degradation due to tourism. ■ Atmospheric Administration and New Eng- land Aquarium assisted 13 Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles and one Loggerhead turtle to return Super Bottom-Breathing Turtles to the wild in New England. Five of the turtles NOAA were tagged with tracking devices, which Hawksbill Turtles Tracking Devices Research has found that the rare ments from river water. can be monitored by satellite online for up to freshwater Mary River Turtle can The Mary River Turtle is endan- one year. It is hoped that data collected will Satelite tags were attached to a number stay submerged for at least three gered and unique to the Mary show behavior after release, survival, migra- of hawksbill turtles by UK researchers of the days and maybe up to a week River. It is thought that the turtles tion, habitat and how the rehabilitation tech- Zoological Society of London in order to learn when conditions are right. This skill lay only one hundred eggs each niques affected the turtles. how to better protect the species, which is now may protect the reptile from fall- breeding season, many of which Dr Bridget Dunnigan of NOAA Fisheries critically endangered due to excessive poach- ing prey to predators. end up being eaten by cats, dogs Service said the released turtles were in pretty ing, fishing and habitat loss. Since little is known Natalie Mathie of the University and foxes or trampled by cows. bad shape when they were first rescued, but about the migratory patterns of the hawksbill, of Queensland in Australia told UQ Future plans to build a dam in the have since made a a great recovery with the conservationists want to find out where the turtles News that unlike most freshwater area may damage turtle habitat help of their caretakers. The Kemp’s Ridley go the rest of the year. Findings from the tracking turtles, the Mary River Turtle has and deplete the oxygen levels of and Loggerhead turtles are listed as an en- study may lead to a better understanding of rela- special sacs in its bottom that can the river. ■ dangered species. ■ tionships between different populations. ■ extract half of its oxygen require- JASON HELLER Sea Turtles in Canada? Invasive Plant Threatens Turtles Local fishermen in Canada pulled up Action is being taken by a vines of the plant. more than they bargained for this sum- nonprofit group to eradicate The plant called Beach mer when they discovered a large an exotic species of plant that Vitex, was introduced to the leatherback turtle that got caught and is wreaking havoc along the area in the mid 80s to stabilize drowned in one of their whelk pot lines. coast of South Carolina, USA, eroding beaches. But local Garnish Capt. Terrence Legge and and threatening nesting sea officials say it is choking native his crew told the Southern Gazette that turtles whose hatchlings get plants and may be costing the they immediately called officials at the caught and die in the long lives of new hatchlings. ■ Department of Fisheries and Ocean. They reported that the sea turtle’s front flipper was snared by twisted line and already www.layanglayang.com Turtles to Combat Jellyfish Plague deceased when the found it. Officials told him to bring to back to In the Mediterranean, sea are their main food source, so port where the department studied the turtles who were recuper- it is hoped that the released animal for research purposes. ating from injurinies at the turtles will help diminish the Local bystanders at the port told re- Oceanografic in El Saler were current plague of jellyfish that porters that they were amazed at the released. Measures have clog up the region’s beaches. catch, which weighed in at 832 pounds. been put into place by the Various installations in Valen- Leatherback turtles are the largest living Valencian government to cia have assisted in the recov- turtle and rarely seen in the waters along protect the species which is in ery and recuperation of more the south coast. ■ danger of extinction. Jellyfish than 200 sea turtles. ■

27 X-RAY MAG : 13 : 2006 EDITORIAL FEATURES TRAVEL NEWS EQUIPMENT BOOKS SCIENCE & ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROFILES PORTFOLIO CLASSIFIED