Marine Conservation Expeditions in Mozambique

MAR Expeditions at the Zavora Marine Lab is currently looking for students to assist in research projects in 2023. Interns are welcome to participate in a traditional marine biology internship or join an expedition to gain a wide range of experience in various different environments.

MAR Expeditions are based in Praia de Zavora, Southern Mozambique, where they founded Zavora Marine Lab in 2009. Since its inception the lab has developed vital research for the region and raised environmental awareness through educational programs with local communities and visitors to the area. MAR and the Zavora Marine Lab have made fantastic progress towards the understanding of the marine environment, including discovering new species and range extensions of known species.

Internships typically last for 1 month, (though many students elect to stay longer) and include up to 25 scuba dives where students will learn how to safely and efficiently collect and analyse data. The group is kept small, (max 6 students) which enables us to provide great service and mentorship. Non-divers and inexperienced divers can also participate by combining any dive courses (from Open Water to any level of continuing education) with the internship.

On-going research projects include:

· Manta ray population monitoring using photo identification

· Predatory fish (incl. shark and ray) surveys using BRUVs & UVCs

· Humpback whale population and behavioral surveys

· Nudibranch population, distribution and diversity

· Artificial Reef (wreck) monitoring

· Seahorse trends monitoring

· Sea turtle monitoring

The summer break for students is an ideal time for them to participate in the internship program as it is the peak period for our migratory humpback whale population, as well as being an excellent time of year to see both species of manta ray on our reefs.

For more information please see the attached brochure.