The entire diving community in Thailand heartily welcomed some uplifting news last week. The Thai government declared that all sunscreens containing harmful chemical substances for coral reefs are banned from all marine national parks nationwide. The government based their decision on scientific data showcasing these chemicals “deteriorate coral reefs, destroy coral larvae, obstruct their reproductive system and cause coral reef bleaching.” The ban applies to sun lotions containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or butylparaben. Violations of the ban can lead to a steep fine (max 100,000 THB or 3,000 USD), although officials have not said how they plan to enforce the ban. Thailand is not the first country to introduce such a ban: Palau, Hawaii, and France were earlier trendsetters.
Almost 70 different known species of sea snakes roam around our oceans and they usually get to be about 2 meters long. They are equipped with paddle-like tails and many have laterally compressed bodies that give them an eel-like appearance. However, unlike eels, sea snakes don’t have gills and must regularly swim to the surface to breathe. Despite their (in)famous potent venom, sea snakes are generally very mild-tempered and will not bite unless provoked. Best to watch their beauty from a safe distance!
The Junk Liveaboards has teamed up with Oceans For All Foundation to organise two special Leopard/Zebra Shark Expeditions. Save the dates: 8-12 April and 4-8 May. The aim of these two dive liveaboard trips is to assess the current numbers of leopard sharks in the Andaman Sea. We will explore the South Andaman Sea around Phuket as well as head north to the Similan Islands. The conclusions of this research provide the basis for the Conservation Petition. This petition is to be presented to the Thai government with the ultimate goal to protect the Leopard Sharks and their habitat in Thailand. Anyone with a diving qualification is welcome to join these 4 night/5 day expeditions.
The first trip in April ventures out to the Similan and Surin Islands. In May, the second expedition focuses on the area south of Phuket & Koh Phi Phi. Are you a fan of leopard sharks and do you want to make a difference? Be part of the change for leopard sharks!
