At Cape RADD, we are dedicated to advancing marine science through a variety of research projects that span across different aspects of marine biology and conservation. Our projects are designed to contribute to the understanding and protection of the marine ecosystem in False Bay, a global biodiversity hotspot.
Ongoing Long-Term Projects
- Monitoring Ocean Ecosystem: We conduct continuous studies to monitor the health and changes within the ocean ecosystem, providing valuable data for conservation efforts.
- FinSpotter: Our flagship Citizen Science based shark population database using Photo ID and A.I applications to compare individuals.
Short-Term Projects
- Tidal Pools Species Richness: Assessing the impact of cleaning regimes on species richness in False Bay’s tidal pools in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Affairs and students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
- Grazer Density and Kelp Abundance: Investigating the potential impact of expanding urchin populations on kelp abundance in South Africa.
- Shy shark Egg Predation rates: collecting and analyzing predation holes in eggs found washed up on the beach.
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
- MPA Management Strategies: Evaluating the success of different MPA management strategies by monitoring abundance and diversity within various zones using standardized transect methods.
Remote Underwater Visual Surveys
- Influence of Bait on Surveys: Quantifying differences in species composition and abundance when using different types of bait in Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) surveys.
Citizen Science
- Engaging the Public: We offer Citizen Science experiences that allow the public to join our scientists on snorkel or scuba dives, helping collect valuable data while enjoying the underwater ecosystem.
Educational Outreach
- Field Courses: Our field courses include training in multiple data collection and field operation techniques, along with theoretical workshops and presentations from field biologists and dive experts.
- School Conservation Camps: We welcome school learners to join on one or multi-day programs to learn and gain hands on experience in marine conservation.
Workshops
- Diving in South Africa – Ocean, climate + biodiversity
- Arc QGIS
- R Statistics
- Microscopy + Blood parasites
- Citizen Science – Benefits and compromises
- Skipper and watercraft skills
- Fish & Invertebrate ID
- Measuring Biodiversity
- Shark Behavior, Physiology and Ecology
Our research at Cape RADD is not just about collecting data; it’s about creating a meaningful impact on the marine environment and fostering a community of informed and engaged ocean advocates. Students will be involved in a variety of projects depending on season and project completion.