Why AWARE - Fish Identification?
This course will introduce you to the most common fish families and species found in temperate and tropical waters. You'll also learn basic fish identification and scientific survey techniques as well as how important personal involvement is in aquatic conservation.
What do I need to start?
- PADI Open Water Diver or Junior Open Water Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
- Minimum age: 10 years old
What will I do?
During your AWARE - Fish Identification Diver Specialty course, you'll practice basic fish identification techniques then collect fish identification data for submission to the REEF Fish Survey Project (if appropriate). The course includes all the background you'll need to identify fish in your area, including:
- Information on Project AWARE and aquatic protection worldwide
- Characteristics of local fish families and species
- Fish survey techniques and strategies
- Fish identification dive planning, organization and procedures
How long will it take?
- Recommended Course Hours: 12
- Minimum Open Water Training: two dives over one day
Where can I go from here?
The AWARE - Fish Identification Adventure Dive from the Adventures In Diving program credits toward this specialty at the discretion of the instructor and this specialty certification counts as one of the five Specialty course certifications for the PADI Master Scuba Diver certification.
Why AWARE - Coral Reef Conservation?
The AWARE - Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course teaches divers, snorkelers and nondivers about the vital role of coral reefs in the marine environment. The course also familiarizes participants with the current state of the world's coral reefs and how they can help.
What do I need to start?
- No dive certification required
- No minimum age limit
What will I do?
This non-diving course includes:
- An introduction to Project AWARE
- The importance of coral reefs to marine ecosystems and coastal areas
- Coral reef biology, association and competition
- The status of the world's coral reefs
- How participants can help, including responsible diving and snorkeling practices
How long will it take?
- Recommended Course Hours: two
What will I need?
- A.W.A.R.E. - Our World, Our Water
Where can I go from here?
You can use this course to complement your Peak Performance Buoyancy, AWARE - Fish Identification, Underwater Naturalist or Underwater Photography Specialty course. In addition, the AWARE - Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course counts as one of five Specialty course certifications required for the Master Scuba Diver certification.
