DAN Team, Stephen Frink, Serena Lucrezi, Emily Eaton, Don Hunter, Bary Coleman, Duncan Pattenden, David F, Colvard, Dr Frans J Cronjé, Esther Jacobs from the Earth Legacy Foundation, Francois Burman, Gabriela Guberman, Adam Sokolski, Frauke Tillmans, Madeline Coombs, Jessica B Adams, Tasmyn Signe, Matt Stow, PJ Prinsloo, Alexander Wowra, Ekaterina Kalashnikova, Dennis Guichard
Team
Morné Christou, Dr Frans Cronje
Cover Photograph
Photographer’s Name: Adam Sokolski
Equipment Used: OM System OM-1 Mark I camera with a 90 mm macro lens in a Nauticam housing, paired with INON Z240 strobes
Location: Romblon - Philippines
This photo features Cyerce nigra, captured in the vibrant waters of Romblon, Philippines These delicate sea slugs are often in motion, and when they move, they undulate their entire bodies in a fluid, almost dance-like way This constant movement makes it quite difficult to capture a sharp, wellcomposed image, especially in underwater conditions I spent a long time observing its behaviour and patiently waiting for the right moment After numerous attempts and careful timing, I finally managed to capture a shot that truly showcases the beauty of this fascinating creature
CHARTING OUR FUTURE BELOW THE SURFACE PERSPECTIVES
In every edition of Alert Diver, we strive to celebrate the beauty, science, and safety of our underwater world This issue is especially close to my heart it reminds us that diving is not only an adventure but also a deeply human endeavour driven by curiosity, courage, and community
This quarter’s stories from the kelp forests of Cape Town to the manta rays of Závora and the chokka beds of the Eastern Cape highlight something profound: we are part of a much larger rhythm Every dive, every image captured, every safety protocol followed is part of a collective commitment to preserving both life and livelihood beneath the waves.
What strikes me most in these pages is the growing alignment between diving and purpose. Whether it’s Ntuthuko’s inspiring journey from a beginner to a leading divemaster in Sodwana Bay, the passionate work by marine researchers in Mozambique, or the quiet strength of divers overcoming panic and injury, this issue reflects the spirit of our dive community
Safety remains our anchor With more divers embracing freediving, rebreathers, or
full-face mask systems, the importance of preparedness, and professional guidance cannot be overstated We continue to see an increase in demand for our training, hotline support, and liability coverage all signs that dive professionals and recreational divers alike are stepping up to lead with integrity and care
As the world grows more interconnected, so must our commitment to responsibility From conversations around scrubber disposal and the risks of vaping, to professional liability awareness and the impact of cold-water diving on mental wellbeing, we’re expanding what it means to be safe, not just physically, but holistically.
Looking ahead, I invite every reader to consider how they can give back to the ocean. Join a local cleanup, mentor a new diver, share your knowledge, or simply take a moment to marvel in silence. The ocean gives us so much let’s ensure we give something back
Thank you for your continued trust in DAN Southern Africa Together, we’re not only diving deeper we’re rising higher in our values and our vision
MERMAIDS & MONOFINS
LINDEN WOLBERT MEMBERS PROFILE
TEXTBYSTEPHENFRINK
Hometown:LosAngeles,California
Age:44
Years Diving:20,butIdidmyfirstDiscoverScubain1995
Why I’m a DAN Member: Diving is only fun if it’s safe, and safety is always my
favouriteelement.
DAN
Any child predisposed to a love of nature will likely find their way to natural environments, which happened early and fortuitously for Linden Wolbert When she turned 1 year old, her family moved to an old farm in Pennsylvania, not far from where George Washington crossed the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War
There were lightning bugs twinkling and bullfrogs croaking in the summers There were horses, deer, and geese It was bucolic but not totally insulated from outside influences The TV had only three channels, and PBS was Wolbert’s portal to the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau and NOVA documentaries about the ocean that comprised her childhood fantasies. Watching those adventures may have influenced her decade as a competitive swimmer from ages 8 through 18. She knew she had to be in the water whenever and wherever.
The family moved to Lancaster County, and a bit of serendipity transpired Wolbert’s school received a grant for a state-of-the-art TV studio This facility enabled her to roam the school’s hallways with a shouldermounted Betamax camera while learning deck-to-deck editing and on-air hosting The local television station offered Wolbert a job before she graduated high school By age 17, she was a full-fledged broadcast cameraperson, shooting live multicamera sporting events
That’s about when her “fishbowl grew too small,” as she puts it In January 2000, she moved to Boston to earn her bachelor’s degree in television at Emerson College, although she switched her major to film The college had a traditional darkroom, and she earned the yellowed fingernails and safelight vision that souping black-andwhite prints in Dektol brought. Wolbert minored in environmental science and dreamed of becoming a wildlife filmmaker.
She captured the world in 2-minute-and-37second film loads with a 16mm Bolex, which broke during her first 16mm shoot She took it to the college’s repair guru, Bernie O’Doherty He invited her to his obscure basement alcove full of broken cameras and tools, where she grew enchanted with mechanical cogs
O’Doherty quickly hired her, and she learned to repair and rebuild the college’s film equipment By night, Wolbert was a Jumbotron camera operator at big local concert venues, filming acts from Ringo Starr to Jack Johnson, and by day, she repaired equipment while managing a full course load.
By the fall of 2003, with her fishbowl still too constrained, she moved to Los Angeles, California, and landed an internship as a production assistant. While working on Discovery Health’s Celebrity Body Challenge, she met a contestant whose goal was to scuba dive Wolbert was tasked with logging the MiniDV footage from his dives at Catalina Island The local underwater scenery left her awestruck, and Wolbert became further enthralled with the world of kelp Although she is now a skilled drysuit diver, she prefers warm water and bare skin to neoprene
All these experiences were a prelude to her career as a mermaid Aside from Disney’s animated Ariel and perhaps Daryl Hannah when the movie Splash was released in 1984, Wolbert might be the world’s highest-profile mermaid due to another serendipitous fork in the road
She earned her open-water certification from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) by 2004 and became a PADI model A short time later, she was an underwater camera operator on a documentary featuring freedivers MandyRae Cruickshank and Martin Štěpánek in
Grand Cayman, directed by Grant Graves On this trip, Wolbert attempted her first static breath hold under the tutelage of worldrenowned freedive instructor Kirk Krack
She observed the phenomenal athletic ability of freedivers, and monofins particularly intrigued her When Wolbert tried Cruickshank’s monofin for the first time, the epiphany struck: “What if I made documentaries for children as a mermaid, speaking on behalf of ocean creatures?” After all, she knew how to shoot and edit and was learning to freedive It helped that she is photogenic, articulate, and irrepressibly effervescent
Mermaid tails weren’t readily available, so Wolbert made her own. A friend connected her with Hollywood special-effects artist Allan Holt, and together, they crafted a
fiberglass mold for a unique mermaid tail made of medical-grade silicone that integrated a monofin Wolbert soon launched her website (MermaidLindencom) and YouTube channel (@MermaidLinden)
By 2009 she was producing her educational children’s series, Mermaid Minute Her YouTube channel has more than 50 million views
She became an “entrepre-mer” one of the many merm-isms she delivers with a knowing wink entertaining and educating at kids’ events, for A-list celebrities, and for Make-A-Wish experiences She had the right personality and superior water skills while donning her realistic, 50-pound silicone tail
Wolbert continued training and eventually managed a five-minute static breath hold and 115-foot (35-meter) freedivers in the
WOLBERT HAND SCULPTS SCALES WITH SPECIAL EFFECTS ARTIST ALLAN HOLT FOR HER FIRST
WOLBERT HAND SCULPTS SCALES WITH SPECIAL EFFECTS ARTIST ALLAN HOLT FOR HER FIRST
FREEDIVES THROUGH THE KELP FOREST IN HER SIGNATURE REEF
FREEDIVES THROUGH THE KELP FOREST IN HER SIGNATURE REEF
WOLBERT
SHARK MONOFIN
WOLBERT
SHARK MONOFIN
ocean In 2006, she also became a freediving judge for the International Association for the Development of Apnea (AIDA), but she was satisfied with her achievements and had no desire to compete
Wolbert’s life isn’t all mermaids all the time She was chair of the Reef Check Foundation, which trains citizen scientists to monitor keystone species on coral and rocky reefs worldwide and aids in kelp restoration She recently got her Recreational Avelo Diver (RAD) certification on the Avelo System and is doing extensive scuba diving after years of primarily freediving She loves the lightweight system and stable neutral buoyancy for more of a freediving feeling
She also mer-markets her signature Mermaid Linden monofins, which were originally made in collaboration with Body Glove in 2013, but now her products are solely under her own brand Her monofins are top sellers and have appeared in the world’s largest retailers Her Reef Shark Monofin launched in 2024 and sold out on Amazon within 24 hours evidence of a following that appreciated her original biomimetic tail, which delivered comfort and efficiency at a competitive price
Wolbert is an inventor with two utility patents for her mermaid-specific designs, including her crown jewel: the world’s first foldable monofin
Diving is only fun if it’s safe, and safety is always my priority. DAN provides the support I need for optimal fun in my favourite element.
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Ivana Inglesina & Victoria Cole, PADI® Platinum Course
Directors, Pro Dive Vibes, Curacao, explain why they choose DAN.
EXITING A PLANE DURING AN EMERGENCY
TRAVEL SMARTER | DAN DISPATCH
Most flights are uneventful, with the worst experiences being an occupied lavatory or unexpected turbulence Emergencies can happen, however, and aircraft passengers need to be prepared to react quickly and efficiently In an emergency, knowing the proper evacuation procedures for your flight can mean the difference between safely concluding your trip or reaching a different final destination
PAY ATTENTION
Every airline has its own evacuation procedures It is essential to pay attention to the safety briefing at the start of every flight
These safety demonstrations cover important information, such as emergency exit locations and using oxygen masks and life vests Each seat pocket usually has safety information cards, which provide information such as how to operate emergency doors and evacuation routes, depending on the circumstances.
Plan your path to the nearest emergency exit and alternate exits if your primary route is blocked. Seasoned air travelers count the rows from their seats to the intended exit, providing a frame of reference if smoke or darkness hinders visibility If you are unsure
about any aspect of safety equipment operation or have special concerns, speak to a crew member
TRUST THE PROCESS
Flight attendants are not just in-flight drink and snack servers They are the primary authority in an emergency evacuation Crew members are trained to handle emergencies, so it is vitally important to follow their instructions Federal and international regulatory bodies enforce aircraft evacuation procedures to ensure passenger safety
Aircraft manufacturers and airline operators must comply with minimum safety evacuation standards to ensure that passengers and crew can safely evacuate in an emergency Aircraft must undergo extensive testing before being certified for passenger service to demonstrate that they can meet the standards and let the crew conduct evacuations within a specified time frame.
If you are ever in an emergency evacuation from an aircraft, trust the procedures that professionals have developed for your safety
LEAVE YOUR STUFF BEHIND
Emergency aircraft evacuations may require passengers to depart the aircraft with controlled quickness to ensure their survival Unfortunately, slowed evacuations have caused some documented fatalities Passengers attempting to retrieve their belongings were the direct cause of some delays Your bags, clothes, phone, and ID are never worth it
When your life and that of others are on the line, leave your stuff behind You can always replace material items Encourage other passengers to do the same if they are caught in a panic and try to retrieve their carry-on items If you panic, you endanger yourself and diminish your capacity to help others The energy you would expend attempting to retain personal items is better spent on more selfless actions, such as helping your fellow passengers exit to safety.
People love to be in nature and enjoy the pleasures that our coasts and oceans have to offer But usually, when we think of marine and coastal recreation, we think of warm, tropical places where we can enjoy the beauty of coral reefs or white sandy beaches Thinking of having fun in cold water can be difficult for some, but not for the divers of Cape Town Here, there is a whole different type of “reef” to explore, one that never ceases to amaze those who venture to put their heads underwater The kelp forests of Cape Town have become popular after the Netflix Documentary My Octopus Teacher received critical acclaim and an Academy Award But among the people of Cape Town, these brown algal forests have been a treasure to behold long before the documentary was produced. But what makes diving in the cold water and kelp forests of Cape Town so special?
THE BENEFITS OF DIVING IN COLD WATER AND THE ALLURE OF KELP FORESTS
Diving in the cold-water kelp forests of Cape Town has so many benefits and between 2020 and 2021, researchers from TREES at the North-West University launched a large project to explore these benefits and the ripple effects they can have on people’s relationship with the ocean Conversations with about 100 scuba and free divers interviewed over the phone or in person revealed several positive properties of cold water and kelp diving These can be grouped into three broad categories 2
1 Diving in kelp forests and cold water is therapeutic and psychologically beneficial Divers explain that while the cold water is beneficial for the body, including the heart and blood circulation, it also positively affects the mind, as people can escape and find a “happy place” or “zen space” in which they can reboot and refresh, to be able to tackle their daily life challenges.
2. Diving in kelp forests stimulates the senses and is a spiritual experience. For
example, the vibrance and colours, the sensation of cold water, and the stillness and crackling of the water make divers feel at peace, relaxed and rejuvenated When being immersed in the kelp forests, divers share a sense of respect, gratitude, and appreciation for the natural beauty and uniqueness of these environments
3 Diving in kelp forests is a learning experience connecting people with nature Kelp forests allow divers to explore, discover and feel adventurous, by observing and understanding the biodiversity of these ecosystems Divers feel a strong sense of belonging and being "at home" in the kelp forest environment, which makes them grounded and closer to nature.
WHAT ARE THE RIPPLE EFFECTS OF EXPERIENCING COLD WATER AND KELP DIVING?
The research conducted by TREES did not stop at understanding why divers are so attracted to cold water and the kelp forests of Cape Town They wanted to see if experiencing cold water and kelp one way or another would have some effect on divers’ personal lives and environmental choices As it turns out, these experiences have a positive influence on pro-environmental behaviours and actions to preserve the ocean For example, divers who learn to appreciate the value of kelp forests as habitats thriving with biodiversity become more eco-sensitive and are more willing to use a pragmatic approach towards ocean conservation, by participating in initiatives like litter cleanups and data collection to assist scientists in their discoveries The spiritual nature of experiencing kelp forests and diving in the cold water creates a feeling of gratitude and connection with nature that results in the willingness to change lifestyle to be more aligned with the need to preserve nature. Recycling, energy saving, advocacy and lobbying are just some examples of the activities that divers partake in, because of their humbling experiences in 3
kelp forests TREES’ project on kelp diving found a direct influence of positive experiences in the kelp forests of Cape Town on divers’ aptitude to become part of a proactive movement for local coastal protection My Octopus Teacher is an example of what kelp forests and cold water can do to connect us with the ocean and give us important life lessons
WHAT IS NEXT?
Diving in cold water and kelp forests is a complex, multi-sensorial experience that can be not only life-changing, but useful to ocean conservation It is just another example of how nature can teach us how to take care of ourselves and take care of it Free divers enjoy the freedom that comes
with diving in kelp forests and recommend it to those who want to “try” the ocean without spending too much money A treasure like the kelp forests of Cape Town needs to be harnessed to promote healthy “blue recreation” to tourists as well as healthy lifestyles to locals, and an educational tool for the generations to come Kelp forests are a naturally occurring “classroom” right at our doorstep, which is there ready to teach us how to pace ourselves, learn, grow, and give back To this end, the tourism industry, scientists, organisations and other members of the community should work hand in hand to harness this treasure and put it among the top to-do environments to enjoy
Cape Town’s underwater rainforest: taking divers on a journey from health benefits to environmental consciousness.
Based in Praia de Závora, Závora Scuba is the only dive centre in the bay Established in 2021, the dive centre runs symbiotically with MAR Expeditions offering the perfect balance of tourism, research and conservation. We offer fun dives for those who are already qualified, Discover Scuba Diving experiences for those who have never dived before and courses for divers wishing to advance their qualifications!
Not a diver? No problem! For those wanting to see Závora from the surface, we offer ocean safaris with the chance to see Humpback whales between June and October During low tide, why not hire snorkelling equipment and check out the local rock pool? It’s like stepping into a natural aquarium!
THE SPIRIT OF ZÁVORA SCUBA
zavorascubainfo@gmailcom +258879086544
OUR TEAM
We are a NAUI dive centre with a small team! Our instructor, Emily Eaton, who has lived in Závora for two years, has been diving since 2015 and progressed her dive career living in the western cape of South Africa before moving to Závora in 2023 Ed Bevan is a NAUI dive master who progressed his dive qualifications here in Závora After first coming here as a MAR intern in 2022, he fell in love with the diving here in Závora and moved here full time in 2023 Both Emily and Ed are passionate marine conservationists, working as Research assistants for MAR Expeditions, they have been guided the ways of Závora under the director of MAR, Nakia Cullain Also, a divemaster, Nakia Cullain moved to Závora in 2016 focusing on the ecology of manta rays and their movement along the southern African coastline. Our team will be
there every step of the way to make sure you have the best experience, both on land and underwater
WHY ZÁVORA SCUBA?
Závora offers a unique and wild experience of the southern Mozambican coastline, exploring marine ecosystems that have had little human impact and once in a lifetime encounters with sharks, rays, humpback whales, turtles, nudibranchs and much more We have a range of different dive sites inshore and offshore ranging from 6 to 34 meters, ranging from coral reefs with cleaning stations at Witch’s Hat to the deep kelp forests of Tentaco The conditions of Závora can be challenging and visibility can vary, making this bay the perfect place to refine your diving skills. To top it off, you’ll have the water to yourself, no crowded boats or queues!
REEF MANTA RAYS (MOBULA ALFREDI)
REEF MANTA RAYS (MOBULA ALFREDI)
WHERE ARE WE?
Located 98km south from the historic port city of Inhambane and just over 400km north of Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, Závora bay is a hidden gem with some of most pristine, untouched reefs in the world
Závora is a small, peaceful fishing village, known for its untouched beauty and relaxed atmosphere With long stretches of beach, minimal tourism, and just a couple of local restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and disconnect Visitors can soak up the sun by the pool at Doxa, explore the endless coastline, or hop on the dive boat to discover the vibrant reefs just offshore Závora offers that rare kind of downtime where nature, simplicity, and adventure all blend into one.
WHEN TO COME
When to come depends on several factors. As far as we are concerned, there is no single 'best time to visit', all seasons have their pros and cons, so here are some facts to consider! Our winter months (which run from May until September are when you’re most likely to see - and if you’re really lucky, dive withHumpback whales Humpbacks spend considerable time in Závora during their annual migration and sharks and rays are found in high abundance throughout Mozambique and South Africa Unlike in many other dive destinations around the world, in Závora you can see both species of manta ray all year round During summer months (December to April), the water temperatures average around 28 °C with blue, calm conditions, but be wary! February can bring cyclone activity, so it’s important to check conditions before travelling
MARINE CONSERVATION
We are super proud to work in partnership with MAR Expeditions Conservation, safety and education are at the forefront of our mission We believe every dive should be enjoyable that incorporates proper protocol when interacting with wild animals During the dives, you will see our scientists in the field actively recording species sightings, surveys and sometimes even tagging!
MAR was developed to provide aspiring scientists, conservationists and divers the opportunity to assist and receive training in marine research and conservation People travel from across the globe to gain handson experience and deepen their knowledge of the marine environment, aiming to apply this in their future careers. The lab’s core research has focused on manta rays, humpback whales, nudibranchs, and artificial reef and wreck colonization through on-land and underwater surveys since its establishment in 2009.
SQUID PRO QUO LOCAL DIVING
As coined by intrepid photographer Jean Tresfon, who started me on this adventure in St Francis Bay, Eastern Cape province of South Africa with renowned watermen Marc White, Steve Benjamin and Russel Saddler, diving into the gloomy emerald green waters in searchoftheelusiveSquid(Loligoreynaudii)orChokka.
TEXT&IMAGESBYDONHUNTER
These, rather tasty, cephalopods congregate off the Eastern Cape in these (rather) temperate waters in large numbers and in breeding season, which is mainly OctoberNovember, each year laying huge numbers of egg pods or strings, each of which contain around 100 eggs These bright orange egg pods are attached to the sea bed in clusters that grow to cover extensive areas as subsequent females add their pods to the mass It is an eerie world down there as there are a lot of large predators cruising around in the gloomy emerald green water
The round ribbontail rays congregate in numbers, preying on the females, who are vulnerable while their heads are buried in the egg beds attaching their pods The rays swim around the egg beds and then come in “hot” hoping to trap a female while she is
laying So when you are laying flat on the sand with your close-focus wide angle fisheye lens they swim over you and into you, mostly from behind, which can be a little disconcerting
With the squid having a rather short lifespan of around 2 years there are also a lot of expired individuals to be hoovered up or cannibalised
In the mix are any number of shark species including Ragged-tooth to spice the experience up
Nothing appears to eat the egg pods but once the tiny millimetre sized squid hatch, in a massed birthing event when the water temperature rises, everything wants to eat them.
THE SQUID LOOK ON DISAPPROVINGLY AT THE STINGRAY WHILE THE CATFISH SWIM AROUND LOOKING FOR HATCHLINGS
THE SQUID LOOK ON DISAPPROVINGLY AT THE STINGRAY WHILE THE CATFISH SWIM AROUND LOOKING FOR HATCHLINGS
THE UNDERSIDE OF A RAY, WHICH IS ITS SAFE SIDE AS THE TEETH ARE MORE FOR GRINDING. THE DANGEROUS BARB IS ON THE TOP SIDE IN THE TAIL.
THE UNDERSIDE OF A RAY, WHICH IS ITS SAFE SIDE AS THE TEETH ARE MORE FOR GRINDING. THE DANGEROUS BARB IS ON THE TOP SIDE IN THE TAIL.
RAGGED-TOOTH SHARKS ARE PLENTIFUL AT THIS TIME
RAGGED-TOOTH SHARKS ARE PLENTIFUL AT THIS TIME
A LARGE MALE RAGGY GLIDES OVER AND WITH A GENTLE ROLLOVER A CLOSEUP SHOT IS POSSIBLE
A LARGE MALE RAGGY GLIDES OVER AND WITH A GENTLE ROLLOVER A CLOSEUP SHOT IS POSSIBLE
MARC POINTING OUT A GREAT WHITE SHARK CRUISING PAST BEHIND ME
MARC POINTING OUT A GREAT WHITE SHARK CRUISING PAST BEHIND ME
The strategy is thus to flood the water with as many tiny squid as possible in the hope that a few will survive The real challenge to photographing this spectacle, scary predators not withstanding, is the rather poor visibility, with only a few metres being the norm
The joke from the Cape divers is always “but it’s at least 6m, there being one metre in every direction, one up, one down, one in front” you get the picture
What, for me, makes the images so stunning, other than the difficulty in getting them, is the very bright and unique colouring contrast of the green water and squid eggs
You first need a very experienced waterman such as Marc to find the squid beds in a water depth shallow enough to dive on, which he has an uncanny knack of consistently being able to do. He does come
from a squid background, both his father and he having been squid boat skippers so finding them everyday was an art honed over many years The depth is rather critical in that doing a safety stop in very poor visibility when there are great white sharks around is tough on your mental wellbeing and as the joke goes “its preferable to take your BCD off at 5m and rather do your safety stop in the boat” It is referable do shorter shallower dives than long safety stops
Diving among the chokka during their annual gathering is not only an incredible visual feast but also a rare privilege It offers a fleeting glimpse into the rich tapestry of life beneath the waves complex, raw, and beautiful These moments, when you're completely immersed in the natural rhythm of the ocean, are a reminder of why we dive in the first place: to witness the extraordinary and to reconnect with the wild heart of our planet.
Located off the remote beaches of KwaZulu Natal, are some of South Africa’s best diving sites. Sodwana bay is known for its beautiful coral reefs, filled with life - both big and small. Here, amid balmy warm water and a clear blue ocean with top to bottom visibility, young people from the local Zulu community are offered the opportunity of a lifetime. A local outreach programme run by Coral Divers is their gateway to a career in diving
The company runs an internship that is open to everyone, attracting young people from around the globe who are looking to turn their passion into a career A favourite gap year course for ocean lovers and divers of all levels, this programme is a splendid way to spend a few months in paradise All the while gaining the necessary skills to forge a lifestyle as a PADI dive professional
Beginning with little to no ocean experience – and often limited swimming skills – eager students from the Mbazwana community are taught how to dive Between days working on the beach assisting with the dive company’s routine operation, they complete courses and rack up hours below the surface Once they graduate as divemasters, their local expertise shines through, and in many cases, they quickly excel in this field
Ntuthuko Thwaia (NT) is an excellent example of this, his exceptional knowledge of the reefs and their inhabitants has made him one of the top divemasters in the area After countless hours spent diving and memorising the habits and hiding places of Sodwana Bay’s diverse reef life, he guides guests with expert precision. “I was very scared of the sea in the beginning,” he recalls with a pensive grin, “but now the
ocean and I are buddies – more than buddies – we are one” He explains this while tapping his two index fingers side by side –the diver hand signal for buddies His level of knowledge of the reefs on his doorstep is astounding – it is no surprise that he now works for a high-end dive operation
Through relentless dedication and sheer hard work, NT has made a name for himself in the community and beyond “Back home they think I am some kind of a legend; they treat me like a hero” The under spoken, modest man complains; “I don’t like it one bit” “I want to help my brother and others get into scuba diving,” he explains, “If I can do it so can they” He tells me about how inspired those back home are, and how he tries to pass on his passion for the ocean. “Chester taught me to swim and took me snorkelling” he recounts, referencing a past
intern from the community, and a successful divemaster now working overseas “My dream is one day to build a pool for my community, to give them a way to learn to swim Being able to swim is key, and that is the hardest part for us” he highlights “I remember being terrified of the ocean, with its deep waters and churning waves” He recalls, “I will never forget the first time I went out; the skipper (someone I knew from home) pushed me right off the boat to go join my friends who were already snorkelling – I would never have made it otherwise!” He laughs
Out of these divemasters, a selected few are offered the golden opportunity to become instructors – receiving sponsorship from Coral Divers to complete the intense and costly Instructors Examination As an instructor himself, NT plans to travel the world and bring his people closer to the ocean “I owe everything to this company [Coral Divers],” the young man concludes, “they have taught me so much, and I will forever be grateful”
Unsung Hero of the Sea! Ntuthuko Thwaia: A Local Legend From Sodwana Bay.
Anyone who has dived on the east coast of South Africa and Mozambique will be familiar with these little orange and red jewels of the reef Internationally they are colloquially known as anthias or basslets, but here in South Africa we call them goldies
Most goldies belong to the closely related genera Pseudanthias and Nemanthias Until very recently, these were placed in the family Serranidae; the groupers or rockcods However, after recent molecular analysis by researchers, this family was split into different families The large groupers, including Potato Bass and Brindle Bass, have now been placed in Epinephelidae, and goldies are in their own family called Anthiadidae.
Members of this family are diurnal zooplankton feeders. They spend most of the day hovering in large groups close to the reef, facing the current which brings their tiny prey. As goldies themselves are a common prey item for larger fish, they tend to stay close to cover and will dart into it when a predator is near
Goldies have a complex social structure They are protogynous hermaphrodites, which means that all individuals begin life as females Goldies can form huge shoals of over a thousand individuals, and these shoals are subdivided into harems A harem consists of a dominant male, a number of females (on average about 8 females per male) and sometimes a small number of sub-dominant males The dominant male is the largest and most brightly coloured member of the harem, and is usually the only male that will breed with the females The sub-dominant males are less brightly coloured but have a similar colour pattern to the dominant male When a dominant male dies, a power struggle often ensues The most dominant female will receive a surge of testosterone and gradually transition into a male. While this is happening they may
even challenge one of the sub-dominant males for the right to be the dominant male
In South Africa we have a number of species of goldies, but only four are regularly seen within recreational SCUBA diving limits The Yellowback Anthias (Pseudanthias evansi) is a shallow water species but is only occasionally seen on a few reefs at Sodwana Bay, and becomes more common north of central Mozambique The Redstripe Anthias (Pseudanthias gibbosus) is occasionally seen at 35-40m deep but is generally found below 40m
SEA GOLDIE (PSEUDANTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS)
This is the ubiquitous goldie in most of the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. It is wide ranging along the east coast of South Africa, with strays even being found as far south as Knysna. The species occurs from rockpools down to at least 40m deep. It is an abundant species in many habitats, though it prefers high profile structures such as wrecks and reef pinnacles
Females are a solid orange colour with a purple eye and purple streak on the cheek Males are a purplish-red colour with a patch of yellow on the sides Both males and females have a filament on front portion of their dorsal fin, though it is longer in males
SILVERSTREAK GOLDIE (PSEUDANTHIAS COOPERI)
This is also a very common species in South Africa, though it tends to be more common on reefs below 20m deep The species frequently forms shoals with the above species Females are a uniform deep red with a pale white band below the eye Males are silvery white on the sides and underside with vivid red fins with silver edges
HARLEQUIN GOLDIE (PSEUDANTHIAS CONNELLI)
This is the most unique South African
MALE SEA GOLDIE (PSEUDANTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS). ISO 200, F14, 1/250
FEMALE SEA GOLDIES (PSEUDANTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS). ISO 200, F14, 1/250
MALE SILVERSTREAK GOLDIE (PSEUDANTHIAS COOPERI) ISO 200, F14, 1/120
MALE THREADFIN GOLDIES (NEMANTHIAS CARBERRYI) DISPLAYING DOMINANCE FIGHTING. ISO 200, F14, 1/250
SEA GOLDIES (PSEUDANTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS) ON THE MV PRODUCE WRECK. ISO 200, F9, 1/250
SEA GOLDIES (PSEUDANTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS) ON THE COOPER LIGHT WRECK. ISO 200, F9, 1/125
A MIX OF SEA GOLDIES AND THREADFIN GOLDIES ON LANDERS REEF. ISO 200, F6.3, 1/160
A MIX OF SILVERSTREAK AND SEA GOLDIES ON LANDERS REEF. ISO 200, F9, 1/160
species The Harlequin Goldie is endemic to Southern Africa, being found from Zavora south to Margate The species was named in 1986 from specimens collected by the late Dr Allan Connell These first specimens were found on the Cooper Light Wreck, a mysterious unidentified wreck off Treasure Beach on Durban Bluff This is still the best place to see this beautiful species, though the wreck is infamous for high current and low visibility, so it cannot often be safely dived
Females are mostly plain orange and are superficially similar to female Sea Goldies The differences are their paler underside and higher body shape. Males cannot be confused with any other species. They have a pink or deep orange body with a deeper red blotch towards the head shot through with a white stripe above the eye.
For reasons unknown the species prefers wrecks and small, deep isolated reefs. Besides the aforementioned Cooper Light wreck, the species is also frequently seen on the wrecks of the Produce and the Nebo, close to Aliwal Shoal
THREADFIN GOLDIE (NEMANTHIAS CARBERRYI)
This is a species that many people confuse with the Sea Goldie It occurs from Aliwal Shoal northwards The females are slightly more slender than Sea Goldie females and have more of a pinkish tone The males are easier to identify because they have a long streamer on the lower part of the caudal (tail) fin The males are very colourful with yellow and orange sides, a red dorsal fin and a bluish underside
This species is commonly found shoaling with other species of goldies
Photographing Goldies
When I’m having a slow photography dive without many unusual subjects I will often
gravitate towards the ever-present goldies They are a beautiful and charismatic subject for both macro and wide angle photography Their vivid warm colours contrast wonderfully with both blue and black backgrounds Reds and oranges are the first colours to disappear with depth, so artificial light such as a strobe or video light will be required to display their colour accurately in photos and video if they are below 10m deep
They are rather swift and skittish, so it can be somewhat of a hit-and-miss affair to capture goldies with a macro lens The method I use is to set the camera focus to manual then focus on a stationary object at approximately the same distance away as I want the fish to be to get it in frame. Then it is just a matter of either waiting for the subject to move into the frame on its own accord or moving the camera backwards and forwards to get the subject in focus. I find this method works more reliably than using autofocus with fast, erratically moving subjects
The most beautiful goldies in a shoal tend to be the large, dominant males which have the longest fins and most intense colours When they are displaying to females or chasing off rival males they will open their fins wide and flash even brighter colours
I will generally use a smaller aperture (f14f22) for extra depth of field which increases the chances of getting the important parts of the subject in focus when shooting fish portraits
I hope this article encourages divers to spend a little bit of bottom time having a closer look at these fascinating little fish While they may not be as blatantly aweinspiring as a large shark or manta, their complex social lives and vivid colours more than make up for their diminutive size!
OCEAN REEF NEPTUNE III
ISTHEOCEANREEFNEPTUNEIIIFULLFACEMASKFORYOU?
TEXTBYDUNCANPATTENDEN
Let’s explore this question by comparing a few common situations we have all experienced as recreational SCUBA divers
DOES YOUR MASK OFTEN FOG UP?
Toothpaste, Clean Green, and commercially available de-foggers clutter dive shop front desks Glass is glass, why does it always fog up? I asked the experts in Italy, and the answer, surprisingly, was that it is the polymers in the silicon itself The Ocean Reef IDM (Integrated Dive Mask) does not fog up due to the air circulation system inside the full-face mask No product treatment needed!
STRUGGLES WITH A LEAKY MASK!
We all know that any facial hair, moustaches, smile lines, or hoodies may cause your SCUBA mask to leak. The new IDM is an ambient pressure mask. In other words, same pressure inside as outside. If the inside pressure drops, the mask compensates and prevents any water from entering the mask.
JAW FATIGUE
Try biting down on a silicon mouthpiece for 45 minutes to hold it in place and you will feel the muscle strain and jaw fatigue We have tried various methods to alleviate this problem such as moulded mouth pieces, 2 stage swivels etc, but at the end of the day we have all been trained to ignore this discomfort Instead of a mouth piece to bite down on, the Ocean Reef IDM has an orinasal pocket which gently sits over the nose and mouth, eliminating jaw fatigue and allowing natural breathing nd
LOSE YOUR MASK OR REGULATOR DURING A DIVE?
At some point we’ve all had our second stage accidently knocked out our mouth by surge, kelp, or an over-excited dive buddy With the new Neptune III IDM there is no risk of unintentionally losing the regulator, even if unconscious. The new quick release system makes the mask very easy to remove with just one hand, and with proper training, the six strap harness system is very secure,
making donning and doffing, in and out the water very easy
FEEL THE CHILL?
Diving Cape Town’s Atlantic side exposes us to 10 to 12 degrees Celsius water Brrrr! This is yet another thing we’ve had to accept as SCUBA divers With the Ocean Reef IDM, the silicon face seal ensures that the eyes, nose, and lips are protected from the chill
DO YOU USE PRESCRIPTION LENSES?
Like many divers my age, I’ve battled to read my camera settings and dive computer Ocean Reef has a lens frame specifically designed to fit inside the IDM We can now fit either custom prescription lenses or off the shelf lenses. The most popular is the +1.5 and +2 reading lenses, and prices are very reasonable. An added feature is that the Ocean Reef lens frame also comes with left and right pop-on arms and a floaty strap, allowing you to pop the lens out the IDM and use them as normal spectacles.
DO YOU EXPERIENCE A DRY THROAT AFTER A DIVE?
Breathing quality air only has at most 35 ppm of water in it, making it very dry This is up to a thousand times less than normal air Add to this, that as the air expands from the cylinder, it cools down dramatically! The natural way that we are meant to deal with this, is to breathe through our nose and allow the air to be warmed-up and hydrated before passing down into our lungs With the new Neptune III IDM, you can easily and comfortably breathe through your nose as nature intended
ARE YOU GETTING THE BEST FIELD OF VISION WITH YOUR DIVE MASK?
Vision is always a factor when choosing a mask The new Neptune III IDM 180-degree vision is the best on the market, giving you a feeling of openness and plenty of light. The polycarbonate visor has a siloxane resin coat on both sides, maximising the scratch and chemical resistance.
COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR DIVE BUDDY
People go into nature to get away from the noise and fuss we experience every day, and not much can beat the tranquillity of a good dive Although this piece is often the highlight of the dive, communication is essential for safety Our SCUBA courses teach us hand signals for basic communication but it doesn’t cover every scenario A good example would be losing your buddy in poor visibility With the Ocean Reef GSM Mercury comms, you can communicate within 250 metres to re-group or ascend to the surface Ocean Reef offers hard-wire and wireless (through water) communication systems, as well as training to get the most out of your equipment There are also surface units that allow boats to communicate with the divers below As an example, boats might call their divers up if the weather is turning bad quickly, and they need to get the divers out the water
HANDS-FREE NIGHT DIVING
The Vesper (no, not the scooter) is a 75-lumen, USB-charging light which clips inside any Ocean Reef Full Face mask Waving your hand in front of your lens turns the light on or off Now in low light you can easily see your camera settings or dive computer The Vesper also clips into a special holder to become a head torch
In my next article, I’ll be covering practical training with the Ocean Reef Neptune III IDM I’d love to hear your thoughts What question would you most like to have answered about the Neptune III IDM and the Underwater Communication Systems? You can email me at duncan@orca-industries.co.za and I will answer as many questions as I can in the next edition.
USED REBREATHER SCRUBBER DISPOSAL
GEAR | TEXT BY BY FRAUKE TILLMANS, PHD, AND SEPH FOX
The sorb, or scrubber, plays a critical role in rebreather diving It is responsible for removing carbon dioxide (CO ) from the diver’s breathing gas Small granules or pellets absorb exhaled CO and allow oxygen to pass through This chemical process allows rebreathers to recycle exhaled air, limiting gas consumption and allowing longer dives 2 2
Once the sorb is saturated, the diver must dispose of it Due to local regulations, the disposal method can differ by the chemical makeup of the scrubber used and by region Knowledge of the sorb and its chemical components is important for both safe rebreather diving and environmentally responsible practice
HOW SCRUBBER WORKS
Soda lime, the most common scrubber material, contains a mixture of calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. When the diver exhales, CO travels through the loop and into the canister containing the scrubber pellets or granules. The CO reacts with the hydroxide ions in the sorb and forms bicarbonate ions, which then react with the calcium hydroxide and produce calcium carbonate 2 2
In this process, the calcium carbonate stays trapped in the sorb, and the used hydroxide ions are regenerated so they can continue to react with more CO After prolonged use, the sorb becomes saturated with calcium carbonate and needs replacement Different factors, such as water temperature, the diver’s workload, and the type and particle size of the pellets, can impact the sorb’s lifetime 2
SCRUBBER DISPOSAL
Because of the chemicals involved, divers should consider how they dispose of sorb It has been hypothesized that the calcium hydroxide in the sorb may harm marine life and ecosystems if dumped into the water, but firm evidence is lacking The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which the United States has endorsed and used to align federal law, prohibits throwing any garbage into the water “from a vessel that is on a lake, river, stream, or any coastal waters up to 3 miles offshore.”
In the U.S., used sorb is often errantly considered nonhazardous and discarded in regular municipal waste Depending on the exact chemical composition of the used
scrubber material, this p illegal and environmen the scrubber material is entirely of nonhazardou at the end of a dive, it environmentally toxic and, therefore, not be municipal disposal So considered hazardous w disposed of properly a waste collection site, located near landfills
According to the US Regulations (CFR Title generator of the potenti (in this case, the rebr ultimately determine the and dispose of it in acco state, and federal regula
Rebreather divers wh locations must ensure applicable laws and jurisdiction where they dispose of potentially ha
BEST PRACTICES
Regardless of your locat best practices to keep in the disposal guideline manufacturer of the sor and confirm that this m in accordance with a federal disposal laws
While rebreather and may provide guidance ultimately the diver's determine if their used hazardous waste and compliance with all a regulations
CALL FOR RESEARCH P
If you are a scien researching the effects environments, consider through the DAN resea Please email us at resear
CHECK
UNDERWATERPHOTOGRAPHERS:CABLES&O-RINGS
GEAR | TEXT & IMAGES BY THE DIVE ACTION TEAM
CARE & MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FOR UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHERS!
CABLES O-RINGS
Pre-Dive Checks
Inspect cables for cracks, wear, or corrosion
Check O-rings: clean, lubricated, and undamaged.
Assess all connections for functionality
Ensure you have backup cables
During the Dive
Use retractors or clips to manage loose cables
Avoid dragging cables over rocks or sand
Maintain neutral buoyancy to prevent contact with the seabed
Watch for kelp entanglement in Western Cape waters
After Each Dive
Rinse cables and connectors in freshwater immediately
Gently move connectors to flush out salt
Dry in shaded area to avoid UV damage
Use compressed air to remove water from connection points.
Cleaning & Storage
Wipe cables with a microfiber cloth after use
Avoid immersing cables in water or using abrasive cleaners
Use a soft brush for persistent dirt
Roll cables with a large bend radius no sharp bends or kinks
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Use silica gel packets to manage humidity
Keep cables in sealed bags or toolboxes to protect from dust and moisture
Long-Term Maintenance
Schedule professional servicing every 50 - 100 dives
Monitor for moisture damage and corrosion.
Avoid tension, crushing, or impact during transport or use
Diver Summary
Choose reinforced housings for rocky or highsurge areas
Prefer angled connectors for tight spaces like wrecks!
Pre-Dive Checks
Remove the O-ring carefully using fingers or a plastic tool
Inspect for damage: Look for cracks, cuts, flat spots, or stretching
Clean the O-ring with a lint-free cloth or your fingers
Clean the groove where the O-ring sits remove all sand, hair, or debris
Apply a light coat of lubricant (specific to the O-ring material)
Reinstall the O-ring evenly no twists or pinches.
Double-check the seal before closing the housing or compartment
After Each Dive
Rinse the housing in fresh water to remove salt and debris
Open the housing in a dry, clean environment
Remove and inspect the O-ring again for any post-dive damage.
Dry and store the O-ring in a cool, dark place if not diving again soon
Periodic Maintenance
Replace O-rings annually or after 50 - 100 dives
Keep spare O-rings and lubricant in your dive kit
Label O-rings if you use diverse types (e.g., silicone vs Viton)
AVOID!
Over-lubricating: Excess grease attracts debris
Using metal tools: These can damage the Oring or housing
Skipping inspection: Even a hair can break the seal.
Reusing damaged O-rings: Always better to replace than risk a flood
Diver Summary
O-rings may be small, but they are your first line of defence against the ocean
Invest in high-quality cables for better durability!
By giving them the attention they deserve, you protect your investment and ensure your underwater adventures are good to remember!
Scuba diving professionals play a crucial role in diver safety, but their responsibilities differ based on their specific roles While dive instructors are responsible for training students, dive guides often assume they have little or no liability when leading certified divers This misconception can have serious legal and safety implications Furthermore, because dive guides bear a duty of care, they should carry professional liability insurance to protect against thirdparty claims
INSTRUCTOR VS. DIVE GUIDE: KEY DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSIBILITY
Dive Instructor: A High Level of Responsibility
A dive instructor is tasked with teaching and ensuring the safety of student divers, who rely entirely on them for supervision and decision-making. Their responsibilities include:
Supervising students during training dives and ensuring they meet certification requirements
Managing risk and responding to emergencies since students lack experience
Legally accountable for the proper training and certification of students
Required to have liability insurance, as training carries inherent risks
DIVE
GUIDE: THE OFTENMISUNDERSTOOD ROLE
Dive guides (including divemaster’s and instructors acting as guides) lead certified divers on recreational dives However, their responsibilities are more extensive than many realise:
Pre-Dive Briefing: Guides must provide clear, thorough briefings on dive conditions, hazards, and emergency procedures.
Assessing Diver Competence: Not all certified divers are skilled or comfortable in the conditions they face.
Emergency Response: If a diver has an issue, a guide is expected to help
Legal and Ethical Obligations: Failing to fulfill these duties can result in legal liability if an accident occurs
THE FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY AMONG DIVE GUIDES
Many dive guides assume that because certified divers are responsible for themselves, the guide is free of liability However, courts have held dive professionals accountable when negligence, improper briefings, or failure to manage safety contributed to an accident Guides must understand that leading a dive means accepting responsibility for diver safety.
WHY DO DIVE GUIDES NEED LIABILITY INSURANCE?
Given the legal risks associated with leading dives, liability insurance is critical for all dive guides. Third-party claims can arise from:
Failing to assess diver readiness
Providing inadequate briefings
Failing to assist in emergencies
Without insurance, a dive guide risks financial ruin in the event of a lawsuit Many dive resorts and dive centres require liability insurance for their staff, but freelance guides should also secure coverage
CONCLUSION
The role of a dive professional comes with serious responsibility whether training new divers as an instructor or leading certified divers as a guide The misconception that dive guides have no liability can lead to dangerous situations Recognising their duty of care and securing professional liability insurance is essential for protecting both divers and their own careers Safe diving begins with responsible leadership, and responsible leadership includes being prepared for all eventualities.
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Maurtius Valente Bell, Dive Safety Officer, California Academy of Sciences, explains why he chooses DAN.
COPING WITH PANIC EDUCATION
COPINGWITHPANICINRECREATIONALSCUBADIVERS
TEXT&IMAGESDAVIDF.COLVARD,MD
David F. Colvard, MD, has been diving since 1971 and has over 1200 dives around the world. He is an active PADIDivemasterandaretiredboard-certifiedpsychiatristinRaleigh,NorthCarolina.
dfcolvard@gmailcom wwwdivepsychcom
A twenty-eight-year-old male certified scuba diver with less than 30 open water dives back-rolled into clear springtime Bahamian waters He gasped in the much cooler than expected water and soon surfaced The attentive Divemaster noticed the diver was starting to panic and called off the dive The diver was embarrassed and struggled to figure out what had happened
A fifty-five-year-old male active divemaster with over 500 open water dives drowsily fumbled with his underwater camera equipment and struggled against slight nausea from anti-malarial pills and an empty stomach The zodiac had launched early that morning through rough surf at Inhambane, Mozambique. After a wild 10-minute ride, the divers prepared for a negative buoyancy back-roll entry into a strong current. The vacationing diver tried to explain that his usual difficulty equalising middle ear pressures did not allow for rapid descents. The dive centre’s divemaster instructed the diver to leave the camera behind and get in before the current carried them past the reef Soon after starting his descent in the cold water, he began to hyperventilate and failed to get control of his breathing despite the divemaster’s best efforts to calm him They returned to the zodiac, drifted with the current and waited for the other divers to surface After a hearty breakfast, he headed back into the rough seas on the zodiac and succeeded in controlling his breathing, but missed the reef due to his slow descent in the current
Would you believe that both of these divers were one and the same? Yes, me!
The first aborted near-panic dive incident was a complete surprise to me I had been diving since I was 18 years old, but not often That evening, I searched my memory, trying to figure out why it had happened. Cold water on the face is a common trigger for anxiety and hyperventilation, but there had to be more.
Finally, I remembered something Three years earlier, on my last dive in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Florida Keys, my dive buddy and I had been cornered by a well-known territorial large barracuda We hovered back to back, and he kept attacking us while we kicked him away With our air starting to run low, he finally “allowed” us to escape back up to our small rented boat I had not thought about it since then, but I felt the anxiety all over again That was it! Having learned various techniques for treating post-traumatic stress as a psychiatry resident, I asked to borrow some scuba gear from the resort the next day I waded into shallow water, calmed myself with diaphragmatic breathing, descended and relived the barracuda dive in my mind’s eye with guided imagery. The anxiety felt very real, but there were no barracudas nearby other than the one in my imagination. I relived the stressful barracuda dive repeatedly underwater until it no longer triggered anxiety. The rest of the week, I made several enjoyable dives while my wife snorkelled
Fast forward almost 30 years, when a local dive shop asked if I could help a diver who wanted to scuba dive on her honeymoon in Hawaii Her last dive in Mexico had been traumatic, and she was afraid, but determined She was a young clinical psychology graduate student at a local university and sounded like an excellent candidate for a stress-reducing scuba refresher We arranged to meet at a local pool a few days later, and I asked her to review training materials She and I got into the shallow end of the pool with just masks and snorkels When she put her face in the water, she almost shot up out of the pool in terror We backed up and started with diaphragmatic breathing to reduce her anticipatory anxiety and gradually exposed her to the stressor of putting her face into and under the water. When she was comfortable with that, we put on our scuba gear and submerged in the shallow end of
the pool to rehearse standard scuba skills, like flooding and clearing her mask Within a few hours, she repeatedly ditched and donned her gear on the bottom of the diving well Diving on her honeymoon in Hawaii went well with a divemaster as her dive buddy
The Southern California Scuba Fatality Report (1965 - 1970), Los Angeles County Underwater Safety Committee, 1971, was one of the first reports examining the role of panic in recreational scuba fatalities It is recommended that all basic scuba students learn to recognise and cope with "speed breathing" and "regain control of his/her breathing before it is too late." 1
In 1980, Tom J Griffiths, Ed. D. produced and made available a two-hour audio program entitled Stress and Panic Management for Divers: Training Exercises for Controlling Diver Stress & Panic*. This is a “self-help” teaching tool that works. It is designed for divers and may be used by students and instructors alike The program is divided into four 30-minute segments Each half-hour segment gives the listener just enough theory to understand the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of diver stress Relaxation skills and mental rehearsal exercises are introduced throughout the program The audio files are available for free download on www DivePsych com 2
In 1987, William Morgan reported in a survey of 254 recreational scuba divers that 64% of the females and 50% of the males had “panic or near-panic” episodes while diving on one or more occasions In 2000, my wife Lynn and I conducted an online survey of over 12,000 divers and found that 37% of the females and 24% of the males had “panic experience” while diving on one or more occasions The difference likely had to do with our more restrictive question. In our subsequent annual surveys, we found that neither certification level, number of yearly dives, nor trait anxiety prevented some 3 4
certified divers from experiencing panic or nearpanic
After hearing from countless divers over the years, I am convinced that it is not the certification level or diving experience or any of dozens of potential stressful events and conditions or trait anxiety in certified divers that lead to dive panic or near-panic It is the level of anticipatory anxiety before the diver ever touches the water that is the best predictor of who will panic or experience near-panic That brings us back to the 1971 Los Angeles County Underwater Safety recommendation: learn to recognise and control pre-panic “speed breathing” You will also use less air and enjoy longer dives in God’s underwater creation. Psalm 107:24 5
REFERENCES
1. The Southern California Scuba Fatality Report (1965 - 1970), Los Angeles County Underwater Safety Committee, 1971.
2 Griffiths TJ, Steel DH, Vaccaro P, Allen R, Karpman M The effects of relaxation and cognitive rehearsal on the anxiety levels and performance of scuba divers Int J Sport Psych 1985;16:113-119
3 William P Morgan, EdD Anxiety and panic in recreational scuba divers Int J Sports Med 1995;20:398-421
4 Colvard DF, Colvard LY A study of panic in recreational divers The Undersea Journal 2003; First Quarter:40-44
5 Psalm 107:24 New International Version
Coping with Panic in Recreational Scuba Divers
PROS CHOOSE DAN
MY ACHING BACK KEEP MOVING
DIVE FITNESS
TEXTBYJESSICAB.ADAMS,PH.D.
Approximately eight out of 10 people will be affected by back pain over the course of their lives This can have a profound impact on overall quality of life Common activities of daily life may become painful Affected individuals may become less active in general and spend less time participating in recreational pursuits such as scuba diving Research has shown that moving is good for your back
Fortunately, the prognosis for acute lowerback problems is generally positive Many physicians currently recommend a “less-ismore” approach It is important for a doctor to rule out cancer or bone abnormalities as root causes; this can be done with basic blood or urine tests. Excessive testing tends to lead to more invasive procedures, which may or may not alleviate pain. It is now accepted that there are many genetic and individual variations that show up on MRI that may not require surgical intervention. Many patients who suffer from lower-back pain are advised by their primary-care physicians to exercise Research has shown that early exercise intervention may constitute effective prevention or even treatment for a large portion of people who suffer from lower-back pain
Weight loss generally contributes to reduced lower-back pain Exercise programs that enhance strength and flexibility can also be effective methods of prevention or treatment when employed appropriately The trick is identifying a program that strengthens the muscles that support the spine: the abdominals and hip and thigh muscles
If you have pain or had any restrictions against exercise in the last 12 months, get approval from your physician before starting any exercise program Once you begin exercising, there are a few “rules” that will help you maximize gains and minimize the risk of injury.
1 If it hurts, STOP. Pain is an indication that something is wrong “Powering through it” is not a sign of toughness; it’s more likely to result in injury than glory
2 Never break form. Proper technique is vital to your success If you cannot complete another repetition without breaking form, you know you have pushed yourself to the limit
3 Progressively increase your training. Frequency, intensity (how hard you work or how much you lift) and duration of a workout should increase gradually This will allow your muscles, bones and joints to adapt appropriately to your training
Try to participate in some type of aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming every day. Swimming is the most useful because it minimises the load on your spine. Try to complete the following routine three times per week.
Begin with 10 repetitions of each exercise, and gradually increase to 20 of each Once you can complete 20 repetitions without
ANKLE PUMPS
This exercise can be done bilaterally (on both sides at the same time) if that’s comfortable
1 Li i i iti ( b k)
KNEE-TO-CHEST RAISES
This exercise should be done unilaterally (one side at a time).
1.Lie in a supine position.
2 Slowly pull your knee to your chest, relaxing your back and neck
3 H ld f 10 30 d
ABDOMINAL CONTRACTIONS
1 Lie in a supine position with your knees bent and your hands resting on your abdomen
2 Contract your abdominal muscles while pressing your back toward the floor
3 Hold for five to 30 seconds
4 Relax
5 Do 10 to 20 reps
Gradually increase the hold time Once you can hold for 30 seconds, it’s time to progress to a partial sit-up in which you raise your shoulders off the floor slowly by contracting your abdominal muscles
PRESS-UPS
It may be more comfortable to complete this exercise with a carpet, towel or yoga mat under your forearms If you can complete this without pain, progress to straight arms
1 Lie in a prone position (on your stomach) with your hands near your shoulders and your hips on the floor
2 Press up (as long as you don’t feel pain) with your forearms in contact with the floor and your elbows directly under your shoulders
3 Hold for 10 to 30 seconds
4 Do 10 to 20 reps
WALL SQUATS
1 Stand with your back against the wall
2 Walk your feet about a foot forward while keeping your hips and shoulders in contact with the wall
3.Contract your abdominal muscles while flexing both knees to about 45 degrees.
4.Hold for five to 30 seconds.
5.Extend your knees and stand up.
Gradually increase the hold time. As your fitness improves, you will be able to move your feet farther from the wall and flex your knees closer to 90 degrees
HEEL RAISES
1 Stand with your weight distributed evenly between your feet
2 Slowly raise your heels
3 Lower your heels
4 Hold for three to 10 seconds
5 Do 10 to 20 reps
NOTE: People with lower-back pain should avoid the following exercises:
Toe touches
Straight-leg sit-ups and full sit-ups
Leg lifts
Any exercise using heavy weights
DAN NOTE
To avoid an increased risk of decompression sickness, DAN recommends that divers avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after making a dive During your annual physical exam or following any changes in your health status, consult your physician to ensure you have medical clearance to dive.
Research has shown that moving is good for your back.
DIVING AFTER A NISSEN FUNDOPLICATION
FROM THE MEDICAL LINE
DAN MEDICS & RESEARCHERS ANSWER YOUR DIVE MEDICINE QUESTIONS
Q | I am a 57-year-old male who is planning to undergo a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and a hiatal hernia. Is the procedure considered an absolute or relative contraindication to recreational diving? How crucial is the ability to belch after a Nissen fundoplication?
The decision to resume scuba diving following a Nissen fundoplication is intricate and personalised Hiatal hernias can present a dive risk due to potential air trapping and gastric rupture Even after surgical repair, gas bloat syndrome, featuring gastric distention and the inability to belch, could complicate dive situations
The surgical team should assess the risks of air trapping and reflux Discussing your specific case with your surgeon, accounting for the surgical technique, your medical history, and the physical gas laws associated with diving is imperative Even when cleared by your surgeon, DAN advises caution until you have established your ability to dive safely, particularly in the initial post-surgery phase.
While some individuals successfully return to diving after Nissen fundoplication, some have complications. A safe return to diving should involve consulting your treating physician and considering physical therapy, rehabilitation, and medication requirements Waiting an additional half of the recovery time your physician recommends before resuming diving allows a sufficient duration for tissue and vasculature recovery
Shannon Sunset, AEMT, NCPT
Q | I came up from a dive, and now my ears feel full, my hearing is muffled, and I have ear pain. What should I do?
The symptoms you mention typically indicate a middle ear barotrauma, usually resulting from inadequate pressure equilibration between the middle ear and the external ambient pressure The typical symptoms are a sensation of ear blockage or fullness, some hearing loss, effusion (fluid buildup) in the middle ear, and pain. Other symptoms may include mild tinnitus, vertigo, or dizziness.
Severe vertigo, tinnitus, and pain suggest possible involvement of the inner ear, which can be very serious Multiple consecutive days of diving may result in mild congestion, leading to impaired Eustachian tube function, which can present a greater risk of middle ear barotrauma
If you experience symptoms following a dive, DAN recommends immediately discontinuing diving and seeking an immediate medical evaluation Attempting to equalise again will likely exacerbate the injury, extend your healing time, or lead to a more serious inner-ear injury Your physician may prescribe antibiotics or steroids, and they may direct you to use a decongestant and anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce symptoms.
Unfortunately, nothing can get you back in the water right away Only time can resolve this injury, which can take up to four to six weeks, depending on the injury’s severity Returning to diving too soon could put you at risk for more severe barotrauma, which can result in permanent hearing loss, vestibular and balance issues, infection, or other complications
If middle ear barotrauma was the extent of your injury, returning to diving should not present a problem once a physician has verified that the condition has completely healed A physician should verify that you have no vestibular dysfunction, fluid in the ears, pain, muffled hearing, and clicks or Rice Krispies sounds in your ear
You may have heard of “popcorn lung” in the news an oddly named condition with serious implications, especially for divers Officially called bronchiolitis obliterans, popcorn lung is a rare but irreversible disease that scars the tiniest airways in the lungs For those who rely on optimal pulmonary function, like scuba divers, this isn’t just a concern it’s a potential diveending diagnosis
THE NAME BEHIND THE DAMAGE
The nickname “popcorn lung” comes from cases in the early 2000s, when workers in microwave popcorn factories developed lung disease after inhaling diacetyl, a chemical used to give popcorn its buttery flavour. Diacetyl, when aerosolized and inhaled, triggers intense inflammation in the bronchioles the smallest branches of the lungs. Over time, this leads to permanent narrowing and obstruction, reducing airflow and causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fatigue
VAPING AND CHEMICAL INHALATION
What does this have to do with diving?
Vaping Many e-cigarette products contain diacetyl or similar compounds When heated, these chemicals can degrade into even more harmful byproducts While the flavourings in vapes may be food-safe when swallowed, inhalation is another story Unlike digestion, inhalation sends chemicals straight into the lungs and bloodstream, bypassing the liver’s protective filtering This direct exposure increases the risk of injury to the delicate pulmonary structures divers rely on for gas exchange Once damage occurs, it’s usually permanent Treatments exist only to manage symptoms there is no cure
THE DIVING DANGER
Diving with bronchiolitis obliterans is highly risky. The scarring in the bronchioles can trap air, increasing the chance of air
embolism or pulmonary barotrauma during ascent Even in mild cases, reduced lung elasticity and small airway dysfunction can impair exercise tolerance and increase the risk of shallow water blackout or decompression stress due to poor gas exchange
Furthermore, subclinical lung injury from vaping may go undetected until it’s too late A diver might pass basic spirometry but still suffer from air trapping or ventilationperfusion mismatch under pressure
TEEN VAPERS AND LONG-TERM RISKS
In one recent case, a US teen developed popcorn lung after secretly vaping for three years. Her case echoes the 2019 outbreak of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use–associated lung injury), linked to vitamin E acetate in cannabis vape products. Many of these injuries involved toxic gases like ketene, produced when additives are heated gases never meant for the human lung, let alone a diver’s
The problem is compounded by the variety of untested chemicals in flavored vapes over 180 are used, many forming unknown compounds when heated Substitutes for diacetyl, such as acetoin or 2,3pentanedione, may be just as harmful
TAKEAWAY FOR DIVERS
If you vape, especially flavoured products, you may be exposing your lungs to irreversible harm For divers, even subtle changes in airway function can spell the difference between a safe dive and a serious incident
DAN recommends that divers avoid vaping altogether Lung health is non-negotiable in diving Protect your future dives by protecting your lungs today
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Shields Lab led by Wyatt Shields, PhD, an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering are investigating how engineered microparticles, specifically designed for use in biomedicine, can be used in areas such as biosensing, where they bind to specific molecules or cells to enable drug delivery and the detection of biological conditions.
Shields and third-year graduate student Abby Harrell are using lung-on-a-chip devices, which offer a noninvasive way to investigate how the immune system responds to decompression sickness (DCS) They use microfluidic devices that mimic the structure of the lung’s alveolar space and microvasculature and study how immune cells react to changes in pressure and dissolved gases Their goal is to identify potential biomarkers for DCS and explore new treatment options for DCS in a controlled lab environment
LUNG ON A CHIP
HOW DID ENGINEERING AND IMMUNOLOGY LEAD YOU TO INVESTIGATE DCS?
Shields: My lab focuses on engineering particle systems for biomedicine We look at applications such as biosensing and drug delivery We’ve recently become particularly interested in how these particles interact with immune cells specifically, how immune cells can aid the transport and function of these particles We discovered that particles significantly impact immune cells, which led us to explore the immune system’s incredible adaptability and complexity
About two and a half years ago, we started diving into DCS and realised there is still a lot we don’t understand about its causes. We are trying to determine if the immune system plays a bigger role in DCS than we initially thought. The more we learned, the more we realised how much the immune system is involved in the condition
Harrell: When Wyatt’s DCS project got funding through the Office of Naval Research, I was starting my first year of grad school I have always been interested in immunology and immuno-engineering Wyatt presented this project, and I was drawn to the idea of combining traditional chemical and biological engineering with a lung-on-a-chip device It was a direction I hadn’t expected for my PhD, but the focus on DCS and its direct relevance to divers made it compelling
WHAT IS A LUNG-ON-A-CHIP DEVICE?
Harrell: It is a microfluidic model that recapitulates the components of the lungs, specifically the alveolar space It has two channels: The top mimics the air compartment, and the bottom represents the microvasculature. This setup allows us to study how gases dissolve into the blood as pressure increases, which is what happens in a diver.
It also introduces elements of lung physiology, such as gas exchange and blood flow in the alveolar space, that aren’t typically in traditional models We can infuse whole blood, including immune cells, into the bottom channel of the chip and observe how those immune cells react to pressure changes and dissolved gases, all without using animals or human models
Shields: We get excited as engineers to approach a problem from a different angle, so we were drawn to the lung-on-a-chip design One key advantage of using this system is that it’s based on human biology, unlike animal models While animal studies are invaluable and provide insights into the immune system, there’s often a gap when applying those findings directly to humans. That’s why we’re trying to use human cells for a more accurate understanding. Traditionally, human cells are studied in vitro, which means placing them in a petri dish and exposing them to conditions that mimic diving but don’t reflect the human body’s complex biology
The lung-on-a-chip system mimics the lung structure, particularly where air comes in and the layers of cells that cover the air sacs and the blood vessels just beneath them This setup lets us study how gases are exchanged between these layers As Abby mentioned, we see immune responses in the blood that we wouldn’t see in a traditional petri dish model
We’ve discovered that when we expose the lung-on-a-chip device to hyperbaric conditions, the responses differ dramatically from what we see in isolated cells This observation suggests that the lung’s full, intact physiology is crucial to understanding what happens during DCS, and that’s why we think this model is so important
The lung-on-a-chip allows us to address specific questions that are difficult to explore in human studies, which often need
extensive ethical approvals Since we’re working with a controlled device, we can test drugs and experiment with different strategies more freely
HOW IS THE DEVICE DEVELOPED?
Shields: I come from an engineering background and drew on my postdoctoral experience at the Wyss Institute at Harvard, where the lung-on-a-chip was first developed We realised we could leverage this technology, allowing us to experiment with variables and create more realistic models
One of the key reasons we were excited about this project was because microphysiological systems (commonly referred to as organ-on-a-chip technologies), particularly the lung model, require a deep
understanding of bioengineering principles It’s not just about creating the device but also about managing the flow of cells, blood, and other fluids to simulate real physiological conditions Engineering expertise ensures we mimic lung structure and function so the models work
Another exciting aspect of this technology, particularly in the context of DCS, is that research using organ-on-a-chip models is still in its early stages Organ-on-a-chip models are not meant to replace animal studies but rather to serve as a complement They provide a valuable platform for studying diseases in a more controlled environment before moving on to animal models or clinical trials
Applying this model to DCS is particularly interesting, as we can explore this condition
with a new, cutting-edge technology that hasn’t been widely used in this context It’s an exciting opportunity to advance our understanding in a novel way
WHAT DOES THE TESTING PROCESS LOOK LIKE?
Harrell: We built a custom chamber a couple of years ago that lets us control the pressure and decompression stages We place chips in the hyperbaric chamber for about an hour to simulate recreational dive conditions and adjust the pressure profile depending on the scenario we’re studying
After pressurising and decompressing the system, we remove the chips and measure the immune responses. Our initial experiments focused on innate immune cells, which are the body’s first responders to
stress We use various assays to examine cellular phenotyping, looking at markers that tell us if the immune cells are in an inflammatory or anti-inflammatory state We also analyse how these cells use secretions to communicate with each other
Now we’re diving deeper into genetic pathways and mechanisms to explore why the cells respond the way they do
Shields: As we better understand these systems’ physiology, we hope the lung-on-achip could help identify markers for diagnosing DCS By looking at genetic and molecular mechanisms, we could potentially identify inter- and intra-individual biomarkers that indicate DCS risk levels
Identifying those markers could allow us to experiment with drugs that inhibit or
promote specific pathways before diving With the lung-on-a-chip, we could easily and quickly test these drugs in the lab without needing human subjects, which gives this technology a massive advantage for this type of research
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently recognise organon-a-chip studies to aid in clinical approval, but conversations with FDA representatives suggest they are working on standardising organ-on-a-chip studies across labs and incorporating this data into the clinical trial regulatory process
ARE THERE PLANS TO USE OTHER ORGANS-ON-A-CHIP IN YOUR RESEARCH?
Shields: While we haven’t planned to incorporate other organ models into this
project, there’s a growing interest in connecting multiple organ-on-a-chip devices Linking heart, lung, and brain models could offer a more comprehensive view of how responses move through the body
These technologies are promising, but they’re not without challenges Building and running them requires a lot of preparation and is quite expensive compared to traditional animal models The chips also don’t replicate the full complexity of an entire organism
We’re focused on the lungs for now because of their role in gas exchange and how pressure and dissolved gases affect them during diving. The lung model seemed like the best place to start, but if our data points us in another direction, we will happily consider exploring other organs.
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Stephen Frink, Underwater Photographer President, Waterhouse Tours, Publisher, Alert Diver® Magazine, explains why he chooses DAN.
DIVING IN REMOTE AREAS
RISK MITIGATION | TEXT
BY FRANCOIS BURMAN, PE, MSC, AND JOANN HAACK, MSE
Diving has inherent risks The human body was not designed to be underwater, and drowning, decompression illness, barotrauma, hazardous marine life injuries, and preexisting health issues all require an emergency response Diving in remote areas introduces additional risks, especially in terms of access to medical care
Part of what makes a destination remote is how long it will take to get help if something goes wrong A three-hour boat ride to an offshore site is already remote in terms of an urgent response to a medical emergency, but a three-day sail on a liveaboard makes the challenge much more significant
Some common critical questions that diligent operators, professionals, and divers should ask themselves include the following:
Where is the nearest health care facility, and can it deal with dive emergencies? Is an emergency response service available that can reach us and get an injured diver to the nearest health care facility?
How long will an evacuation take? What medical equipment do we need, and will our emergency oxygen supply last long enough?
What emergency response training do the people on the boat have?
How many divers are at the site, and can the available emergency response handle multiple injured divers?
Can a diver get evacuated to advanced care, considering issues such as distance, border crossings, and landing (especially at night)?
The answers to these questions will depend on the location; each place has its own risk factors Divers, dive operators, dive professionals, and trip leaders should carefully assess a potential destination to determine whether it is safe enough for diving before planning a trip there If there are concerns about safety, they should consider its unique challenges and determine what preparations are necessary It is also important to understand that you can’t rely on travel or dive accident insurance, insurance hotlines, or even DAN for emergency medical services.
The dive operator is responsible for understanding the risks and having plans in place to care for their crew and clients. The trip leader represents the divers and needs to ensure that the operator has practical
plans Divers should prepare themselves with important information, such as contact and insurance information and essential safety gear
The best way to deal with potential accidents or injuries in remote places is by having realistic, practical, and carefully tested emergency action plans in place These plans and procedures should account for long response times and the best use of internal resources, such as the center of operations and the appointed medical officer Any plan must also account for rescue transportation availability and access to health care and other emergency services
Since its inception, DAN has handled challenges arising from dive accidents in remote areas. Our experiences have revealed that emergency planning is
typically either nonexistent or too basic to be useful
Consider the Cocos and Socorro islands, Raja Ampat, Kiribati or even the Marshall Islands Calls come in for help, local rescue and medical resources are often nonexistent, and divers and dive operators are left feeling frustrated, angry, and perhaps even medically compromised
One of DAN’s e-learning modules is specifically designed to help dive operators and trip leaders know what questions to ask and offers suggestions on mitigating potential issues A self-assessment survey pairs with the module to help evaluate a diver’s risk exposure in a potential destination. Divers, dive operators, and dive professionals can implement the applicable suggestions to help reduce the overall level of risk and ensure they feel comfortable handling any remaining potential risks.
One of the easiest ways to enjoy the ocean is snorkelling or freediving, with shore access in many destinations opening up the experience to almost anyone Visitors to our beautiful coasts are often drawn to the water and will look for an experienced person to guide them, turning to social media or Google to find a local expert
In most outdoor sports signing up with a commercial operation is almost guaranteed to leave you in the hands of a trained professional Sports such as scuba diving, skydiving or paragliding have rigorous training and regulation - particularly regarding commercial operations - to ensure the safety of paying customers.
What about freediving? While scuba diving is very difficult to enjoy without going through a school or presenting proof of qualification to rent or fill cylinders, freediving is slightly different. With easy shore access or through boat operators who are focused on scuba and view freediving as a derivative of snorkelling that doesn’t require any particular expertise, there is a large grey area around commercial freediving operations
As the popularity of the sport explodes, so does the availability of instructors and guides Unsuspecting newcomers are often lured in by ocean enthusiasts offering experiences backed by alluring social media accounts and mesmerising visuals, but how skilled and safe are they?
The reality is that it is difficult to know, and it’s all too easy to end up in the ocean out of your depth (literally and figuratively) in the care of someone who may not be able to keep you safe or respond appropriately to an emergency when the chips are down
If you don’t know where to start, here are some questions you may want to ask before handing over your cash.
WHAT QUALIFICATION DOES YOUR FREEDIVING
GUIDE
OR INSTRUCTOR
HAVE, AND ARE THEY AFFILIATED WITH A RECOGNISED AGENCY?
Particularly in areas with easy shore access, there are a plethora of operators selling snorkel tours and freediving experiences However, unless they are an accredited instructor that has gone through rigorous training with a recognised agency, there is the possibility that you’re about to pay your money to someone who might not be able to ensure your safety
Additionally, agencies worth their salt have a code of conduct for instructors, reducing the chances of unprofessional behaviour that can taint your ocean experience, and offering recourse to the agency in the unlikely but unfortunate event of an incident occurring.
While the calibre of instructor is more related to the individual than the agency they’re associated with, the bottom line is that you want to trust your safety to someone who is formally trained - not an amateur who has turned their passion for the ocean into a profitable side project while skipping the training investment
WHAT EMERGENCY TRAINING DO THEY HAVE?
Everything is fine - until it’s not If there is an incident in the water (panic attack, hypothermia, blackout, rabid seal attack, heart attack etc), are they able to deal competently with it? Without formal emergency training that includes CPR and first aid, an incident can go from a minor inconvenience to a life-threatening situation faster than you can get your wetsuit on To qualify as a freediving instructor with any agency, CPR and first aid training is a mandatory part of the process.
HAVE THEY ASKED YOU ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR WATER EXPERIENCE AND MEDICAL BACKGROUND?
Trained professionals should make a point of understanding their clients and any potential risks, and if you haven’t been asked basic questions about your water experience and medical background, this should raise a red flag
WHAT IS THE INSTRUCTOR/CLIENT RATIO?
The higher the number of students per instructor, the better the profit - and the higher the risk
On a freediving course or in the open ocean, anything more than four students per instructor should raise an eyebrow. While limits on a formal course vary (with the average being four per instructor, and six with one assistant instructor), the reality is that informal ‘courses’ - particularly those where a boat launch is involved - may attract higher numbers simply to make the maths work
Even if an instructor is accredited, there are no formal restrictions on student limits if there is no formal course underway, and professionals need to use their discretion to ensure that everyone under their supervision is safe, be it through competent buddy pairs or direct supervision Larger groups mean less direct supervision, and a lower likelihood of a successful, safe intervention if there is an incident
YOU HAVE FREEDIVING EXPERIENCE, AND ARE SIGNING UP FOR ADVANCED COACHING. WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU ASK?
This is where safety issues get real
Once you’re diving below your lungs’ residual volume (for the average person, that’s around -30m), a whole new category of risk opens up, with lung barotrauma and
hypoxia becoming considerations if progression isn’t carefully structured and adaptation methodically taught
Risks are amplified when advanced equalisation is prematurely introduced, sometimes creating access to depths that were previously limited by a diver’s ability to equalise Couple this with diving on an open line (where the line is set way deeper than the target depth of the diver in question), and the perfect storm is created for a blackout or incident
Signing up for advanced coaching or depth camps with facilitators who are not both qualified instructors and experienced depth divers themselves potentially leaves you in the hands of someone who may impart fragments of secondhand knowledge that can abruptly find you deeper than you’ve been before, without the skills to safely and successfully complete the dive and - even worse - in the hands of someone who doesn’t have the skills to rescue you when things go wrong
Equipment considerations (safe lanyards, correctly set up buoys, oxygen availability etc), safety training refreshers (practising of rescues) and buddy procedures are all imperative for safe deep training
FEELING OVERWHELMED? DON’T!
Freediving may be one of the best experiences of your life, and knowledge is your friend While it may seem intimidating to consider all of the risks, the reality is that you wouldn’t sign yourself or a loved one up to skydive, scuba dive, paraglide or go flying with an unqualified person, and freediving should be no different! You’re handing over hard-earned cash for the experience, and are entitled to expect safety and professionalism in return.
Armed with a few key questions and a bit of research, you can make informed choices
around who you trust your safety to without being misled by the marketing glitter If your questions are met with resistance or obfuscation, you may already have the answer Professionals will encourage you to take responsibility for making safe decisions, and will gladly share the answers without taking offence
So before signing up for your next adventure, do your homework, and then dive in to explore the magic of the ocean with the confidence that the professional guiding you is competent and likely to open up the wonder of a whole new world for you in the safest possible way!
Tamsyn Signe is an AIDA Master Instructor and depth competition safety diver that is passionate about risk management in extreme sports, coming from a background of flight and wingsuit acrobatics instruction and competition.
Matt Stow, founding member of Freediving Africa, is a freediving instructor trainer that has qualified through both AIDA and NAUI, and is also a depth competition safety diver that has worked at World Championship level, as well as an underwater photographer.
JOIN TAMSYN AND MATT’S COMMUNITIES
@freediving africa
wwwfreedivingafricacoza
@tamneedswater
wwwstaylongergodeepercom
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Richie Kohler, Professional diver, shipwreck researcher, and film-maker, explains why he chooses DAN.
GETTINGSTARTEDIN SCIENTIFICDIVING SPECIAL INTEREST
After 25 years as a diving professional, nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to see on that dive Five years later, it is still a vision etched into my mind
There is something special about being the first person to see something that has been hidden for thousands of years On that first dive of the project, I wasn’t the first person to see the evidence of the wreck, but I was amongst a very small group of people that had After a week of excavating at 110m, I had my opportunity to uncover a piece of history that hadn’t been seen by another person for 2,700 years
As long as I’ve been a technical diver, I have had the opportunity to do some incredible dives that have been more about my own personal exploration or achievements. Since starting underwater archaeology projects in 2019 and working with true professionals of science, the dives have become more meaningful. They have a purpose, an expected outcome or sometimes an unexcepted outcome As you’re digging, you’re uncovering a story, almost a mystery because you don’t have all the ‘chapters’ of the book, history slowly revealing itself
If you come across a clock in a shipwreck, the frozen time reflects the exact moment it went down and possibly the exact moment a soul, or many, were lost It could be the time that the ship hit a mine or was torpedoed by a submarine Suddenly that isn’t just an artefact, it’s a memory, a point in history
The Phoenician shipwreck project in Malta was an extraordinary undertaking with a team of divers, archeologists and support crew from around the world Lying at a depth of around 110 metres, the wreck is one of the oldest known in the central Mediterranean and offers a rare glimpse into ancient maritime trade during the 7th century.
The project, led by Professor Timmy Gambin of the University of Malta, in collaboration with supporting partners, uses advanced diving techniques and technology to document and recover artefacts, including amphorae, grinding stones, and ceramics These finds provide valuable insight into Phoenician trade routes, cargo, and ship construction Due to its depth, the site poses logistical challenges, making it a significant case study for both technical diving and underwater heritage preservation It was, and probably still is, the deepest archaeological excavation that has been done by a team of technical divers
Having a small part to play in this project and getting to witness the wreck site, from my first dive seeing the amphorae nestled in the sand, to seeing a piece of the wooden ship that carried them emerge after we uncovered it, and bringing artefacts to the surface to be studied will be a lasting memory.
After my first dive on the Phoenician wreck, I called my wife back home and said, “I know what I want to do when I grow up” Although I still haven’t grown up, I’ve had incredible opportunities over the last 5 years contributing to projects in several countries, in fields like marine biology, conservation and archaeology Not all of them have been deep Recently I was in a team doing a survey as shallow as 10-20m We were using rebreathers and diver propulsion vehicles, but it was within recreational limits Best of all, no one had dived in that area before, so we did not know what to expect
It sounds like a dream job, right? The diving is only a part of a project You have to get used early mornings and late nights
A typical day starts with loading gear into vehicles and boats, and pre-dive checks. After 3 – 4 hours in the water it’s a couple of hours offloading and transporting gear back
to base, followed by cleaning and doing any repairs Sometimes you have some time for a short rest before heading to briefings for the next day By 10 PM, you have set up for the next day and hopefully had a bit of dinner
You have to sacrifice weeks away from your family, which is the hardest part When you’re doing any kind of working dives, safety is of utmost importance and always a priority over any dive objective Being able to provide that assurance to your family at home provides some peace of mind
It’s not all divers and scientists; depending on the project, you can have as many as 20 people with various roles and functions
Recording the work that is being done
requires pinpoint accuracy and cataloguing Photographers and videographers are used extensively before, during and after the dive, taking thousands of images These images can be used to create 3d models, using a technique called photogrammetry
Photogrammetry is a technique that uses multiple overlapping photographs taken from different angles to create precise 3D models or maps of objects, structures, or environments In underwater archaeology and diving, it’s used to digitally reconstruct shipwrecks or reef systems by stitching together images taken by divers or ROVs
This non-invasive method helps preserve fragile sites while allowing researchers to study and share detailed visual records without disturbing the original location.
Getting started in scientific diving
ILLUSTRATES HOW PHOTOGRAMMETRY CAN BE USED TO MEASURE CHANGES IN THE SITE DURING THE EXCAVATION PROCESS.
ILLUSTRATES HOW PHOTOGRAMMETRY CAN BE USED TO MEASURE CHANGES IN THE SITE DURING THE EXCAVATION PROCESS.
IMAGE BY IMAGE BY KRISTOF GOOVAERTS KRISTOF GOOVAERTS
No matter how big or small, a successful project needs a team of surface support and boat crew, and it helps to have someone with good technical knowledge that can assist with equipment problems Any delays can be detrimental to a project’s outcome
Probably the most important aspect is the safety team and support divers that assist with pre-dive checks and help relieve divers of unnecessary or redundant equipment All managed by the dive safety officer, who can decide whether or not a dive goes ahead or if a task being asked is even possible
Everyone has their part to play Being able to get involved in these types of projects requires a diver dedicated to their sport and personal development. You don’t need to be a technical diver but if you are interested in getting involved then chart an educational pathway. Perhaps your interest is in photography or marine conservation, explore training that is available to make yourself someone who would be an asset to have onboard
Diving skills should be second nature so that you can focus on the job at hand, participate in training that will enhance your skills The Finnish Scientific Diving Academy in Helsinki offers a programme for scientific diving
Safety is always the most important consideration, and there are multiple options out there to get you educated Divers Alert Network has a host of useful programmes, including a Dive Safety Officer course presented by some of the leading experts in the field
Curiosity is the heartbeat of exploration For divers, it drives the desire to descend into blue holes, penetrate forgotten wrecks, or document newly discovered reefs. This spirit has led to significant scientific breakthroughs, cultural discoveries, and awareness of marine conservation needs. Divers have a unique opportunity to be involved in discovery and exploration.
wwwphoenicianshipwreckorg
KISAWASANCTUARY MOZAMBIQUE SPECIAL INTEREST
KISAWA SANCTUARY IS EMPOWERING RESEARCHERS TO TURN CRITICAL DATAINTOLASTINGCONSERVATIONOUTCOMES
Conducting marine research and conservation in remote, understudied areas affected by global climate change has never been more challenging An adverse political climate - both globally and regionally - adds another layer of difficulty Conservation organisations around the world struggle with financial stability, often facing limited and fragmented funding This undermines the consistency and sustainability of the long-term environmental monitoring required for actionable science and meaningful conservation outcomes The traditional "business-as-usual" model no longer operates effectively, and fundamentally new solutions are needed to sustain efforts in protecting wildlife and its habitats.
Ironically, successful fundraising itself demands substantial resources - both human and financial - which are often equally scarce. This creates a daunting cycle that many organisations struggle to break.
Here we are, in one of the most ecologically significant marine ecosystems - the magnificent Bazaruto seascape It encompasses one of Mozambique’s oldest marine protected areas (MPAs) and the equally vital surrounding waters
Inspired by its unparalleled biodiversity, pristine beaches, and intricate ecosystemsincluding mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and pelagic waterstwo organisations, Kisawa Sanctuary and Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies (BCSS), joined forces in a pioneering partnership This first-of-its-kind tandem is setting a new precedent for marine research, paving the new way of contributing knowledge to the conservation of this fragile biome
The groundbreaking approach of the Resortto-Research (R-2-R) concept, created by Princess Nina of Greece, founder of both the Sanctuary and the Research Center, ensures that the Ocean Observatory hosted by BCSS
is equipped for long-term environmental monitoring This means consistent data collection over extended periods - essential for addressing the limitations of short-term projects that lack longevity By doing so, they guarantee an ongoing contribution to scientific knowledge, making the data publicly accessible and impactful
More importantly, through interaction with guests and visitors, this partnership makes science, previously unknown biodiversity hotspots, and behind-the-scenes insights more accessible to the public This helps inspire and foster a new generation of environmental ambassadors Kisawa guests are invited to participate in BCSS-led activities and scientific experiences. A highlight among these is Ocean Mapping & Monitoring, which resulted in the first-ever 3D visual mapping of 13 dive sites - a groundbreaking initiative within the hospitality sector.
By engaging in these opportunities, guests directly support marine research, enabling BCSS to gather robust data across this iconic seascape and better understand its marine life and oceanic processes
Considerable effort went into diving expeditions, generating valuable data on species inventories, ocean acidification, carbon transfer, plastic pollution, and marine population dynamics All data are shared openly, promoting collaboration with both national and global research institutions and policymakers
Explore more insights in the reports section of our website
The R2R concept is more than a collaboration - it’s a long-term commitment to scientific research It provides a stable platform for environmental monitoring, ensuring both financial and operational sustainability.
Through this model, Kisawa Sanctuary guests contribute directly to non-profit research, creating a nature-positive relationship between hospitality and conservation Data generated by BCSS directly inform daily operations at the Sanctuary from sustainable construction decisions to guest experiences such as diving activities, which are planned in accordance with weather data and wildlife sighting calendars
In 2024 alone, BCSS’s weather station and underwater sensors collected over 300,000 data points, contributing to more than 16 million data points gathered since the Observatory’s inception These data span over 30 environmental variables and are used to generate comprehensive weather tables, including air and sea temperatures, precipitation, and wind averages
Kisawa and BCSS go beyond luxury and scientific collaboration they are deeply committed to sustainability and aligning their efforts with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) With a 51% reduction in their carbon footprint, both the Resort and the Observatory continue to adopt sustainable practices, actively working to prevent marine pollution, support education initiatives, and encourage responsible consumption
Want to dive in - literally? Reach out at info@bcssmzorg to experience our scientific diving activities firsthand, support conservation in Mozambique, and become part of our mission to safeguard the ecological integrity of the Bazaruto seascape We’d be delighted to organise a diving expedition for your group and share our passion for ocean science - doing what we love most: being on, in, and under the water
ESTHER JACOBS, EARTH LEGACY FOUNDATION, MOSSEL BAY
As a scuba diver, whether you like them or not, you should always want to defend the ocean’s most misunderstood predator
I’ve always believed the ocean has a way of humbling us As scuba divers, we’ve experienced the silence beneath the waves, the grace of a passing ray, the pulse of a living reef But there’s one moment that has the power to make even the most seasoned diver pause in awe a shark gliding past
Yet, for many, that awe is still tangled with fear or misunderstanding And that’s a worry
MY DISTRESSING SHARK ENCOUNTER
It’s a calm afternoon on the coast of Mossel Bay, the kind of day where the ocean breeze carries salt and serenity in equal measure I was walking the shoreline, enjoying a rare moment of stillness, when that peace was shattered by the sound of shouting. As I turned a corner, I found myself in a heated confrontation. One I hadn’t planned, but one I couldn’t walk away from.
Two anglers had caught a hammerhead shark from the beach My heart dropped the moment I saw it Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna spp) are especially prone to stress,
their physiology leaving them vulnerable to exhaustion, shock, and even death from the sheer trauma of being caught and mishandled A study published by the University of Miami found that capturerelated stress in hammerheads results in significantly elevated blood lactate levels, comparable to what humans experience during extreme physical exertion
Unlike other species, many hammerheads suffer delayed mortality, dying after being released, even if they initially swim away
These iconic sharks are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, with species like the smooth hammerhead (Sphyrna zygaena) listed as Vulnerable, and others like the scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) as Critically Endangered
Despite this, what followed was anything but careful or respectful. The shark, clearly stressed, was dragged across the rocks. One of the men stomped on its snout. Another kept the animal out of the water for minutes to take several ‘selfies’ with it.
As a conservationist and marine animal responder, I’ve seen my fair share of
WHITE SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY WHITE SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY
HAMMERHEAD SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY SPOTTED WHILE SNORKELLING
HAMMERHEAD SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY - SPOTTED WHILE SNORKELLING
MOSSEL: PUFFADDER SHYSHARK IN MOSZSEL BAY WITH AN EYE INJURY COURTESY OF A RUN IN WITH A ROCKCOD
MOSSEL: PUFFADDER SHYSHARK IN MOSZSEL BAY WITH AN EYE INJURY COURTESY OF A RUN IN WITH A ROCKCOD
disturbing interactions between people and ocean wildlife, but something about this moment hit differently I knew, with heartbreaking certainty, that the shark’s odds of survival had plummeted, even if it had been “released” And it shook me Because if even we, the ocean lovers, stand by silently, how can we expect change?
LAUNCHING A PETITION FOR PROTECTION
My encounter that day led to action
Through Earth Legacy Foundation, I launched a petition calling for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) to urgently remove all Critically Endangered and Endangered species from South Africa’s permitted catch list, both commercial and recreational The petition also calls for the implementation of a zero bag limit and an enforceable, ethical handling policy for protected species.
It’s time to end the grey area where "accidental" catches become photo ops, and endangered species become collateral damage You can add your voice to the call for change by signing the petition now Click here!
SHARKS FOR OCEAN HEALTH
Marine biologist and explorer Dr Sylvia Earle said it best:
“Sharks are beautiful animals, and if you're lucky enough to see lots of them, that means that you're in a healthy ocean You should be afraid if you are in the ocean and don't see sharks”
It’s true Sharks are apex predators, ecosystem engineers, and key indicators of ocean health. Without them, the entire balance of marine life begins to unravel
WHITE SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY WHITE SHARK IN MOSSEL BAY
As divers, we are the ocean’s frontline ambassadors We see the beauty, complexity, and fragility of marine ecosystems in ways few others do When we surface, we bring those stories with us But we also carry a responsibility to act Healthy reefs thrive due to sharks, so let’s make sure they always do
YOU DON’T HAVE TO LOVE SHARKS — BUT YOU SHOULD RESPECT THEM
Not everyone has to be a shark fanatic But every diver should understand the role sharks play and how vital they are to the marine ecosystems we cherish. One-third of all sharks, rays, and chimaeras are threatened with extinction, according to the IUCN Shark Specialist Group. Without top predators like hammerheads, marine ecosystems begin to unravel. It’s a proven fact that trophic cascades wipe out biodiversity, impact fisheries, and weaken ocean resilience
So yes, you don’t have to love sharks, but you should cherish them and recognise that protecting sharks means protecting our reefs, our fish, and our future dive sites
But it’s not just about the science It’s about values About ethics About what kind of legacy we want to leave behind
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Educate yourself and others challenge shark myths and fear-mongering
Use your platform even a simple social media post can shift perceptions
Support stronger protections sign petitions, attend hearings, and write to lawmakers
Lead by example refuse to support operations that mistreat sharks for tourism. Let’s make it our mission to ensure the next generation of divers still has sharks to dive with.
We need bold action. We need sciencebacked policies. And we need each other, the global dive community, to rise up, speak out, and defend the ocean’s misunderstood guardians
Sharks don’t need us to love them But they desperately need us to protect them @earthlegacyfoundation @earthlegacyfoundation
LEIGH CARTER, GO DIVE MOSSEL BAY, WITH PYJAMA CATSHARK. LEIGH CARTER, GO DIVE MOSSEL BAY, WITH PYJAMA CATSHARK.
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Michael AW, Underwater Photographer, Director, Board Member, Ocean Geographic, explains why he chooses DAN.
KIMBE BAY A N D B E Y O
N D
DIVER
CELEBRATING THE REMOTE & INTIMATE IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA
TRAVEL | TEXT & IMAGES BY STEPHEN FRINK
From recent travels, I sensed that a lot of liveaboards are now deployed worldwide I was curious to know the exact numbers, and an online search showed that there are 69 in the Red Sea and 64 in Raja Ampat; even the Galápagos Islands have 10 dive liveaboards now.
Then I queried how many liveaboards dive Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea (PNG). The answer confirmed what I already knew I had taken a drone photo of Walindi Plantation Resort and saw two boats at the dock: the Febrina and Oceania They are the only two in that region, and it seems they are the only two in PNG these days
That low number is odd, considering the Coral Triangle liveaboard culture in PNG began nearly four decades ago Bob Halstead, who was instrumental in that development, recalls the early days: “We ran adventure camp and dive safaris for about seven years and then realized we had to get a liveaboard to do these properly We hired a naval architect and had the Telita built The inaugural trip was Christmas 1986 with Amos Nachoum We lived on board for the next 10 years, exploring everywhere and finding unexplored spots”
The Telita, Golden Dawn, Tiata, and Chertan were popular PNG liveaboards back in the day, but that was then, and this is now. The two remaining liveaboards coordinate their cruising schedules with each other and the day dive boats so they are never at the same site at the same time. When diving Kimbe Bay and the nearby sites, you will be the only divers on the reef, which is special and
reassuring, even if it means a long trip from North America to get there
KIMBE BAY
Situated along the northern coast of New Britain, the largest of the numerous islands that comprise the Bismarck Archipelago, Kimbe Bay is sheltered by the Willaumez Peninsula and fed by the Bismarck Sea. A fairly narrow and shallow sand shelf is punctuated by a perimeter lined with fringing reef and a precipitous drop-off plunging to more than 3,300 feet (1,000 meters)
Under the right conditions, three iconic seamounts Bradford Shoals, Inglis Shoals, and Joelle’s Reef are spectacular dives, specifically for the marine life they attract Kimbe Bay is touted as a refuge for biodiversity, and scientists speculate that it contains 60% of the coral species endemic to the Indo-Pacific and at least 860 of the fish species identified in the Coral Triangle
Resort-based daily dives concentrate on about 40 named sites within Kimbe Bay, while liveaboard expeditions venture further offshore as weather and seasonal vagaries permit We timed our trip for October to dive Kimbe Bay along with the Witu Islands and Fathers Reefs These sites are typically accessible from mid-September through November and then again from April through June. While plenty of diving is accessible in Kimbe Bay to satisfy even the most ardent enthusiast, our 10-day combo tour provided our dive itinerary with better visibility on the offshore reefs and a greater variety of reef structures
A CRIMSON GORGONIA DECORATES THE DROPOFF AT GORU ARCH.
We began our trip with a checkout dive at Restorf Island While only a short distance from the dock at Walindi, it is a diverse site The island has a high profile and is heavily wooded, with several different offshore environments A hard coral reef is along the island’s northeast tip and some deeper sites are to the west, where a scattering of bommies decorated with red sea whips dot the sandy slope the omnipresent signature of the classic PNG reefscape
Other colourful filter feeders, such as orange elephant ear and large barrel sponges, compete with massive sea fans, suggesting there is sometimes current here However, it was totally slack for us. Divers who brought a camera with a 100mm macro lens on the checkout dive made a good call. The sand flat over which we dialled in our buoyancy hosted a large colony of garden eels and easily photographed sand dwellers such as gobies, flounder, and various species of dragonets.
Being immersed in these waters reminded me of perhaps the two most iconic Kimbe Bay photos of all time, both by David Doubilet I presume he photographed his image of a circle of barracudas with a diver at Bradford Shoals since that reef features large schools of chevron barracudas I would get my opportunity there later in the cruise
Doubilet’s over/under photo of a man and boy on their dugout canoe with pristine lettuce and staghorn corals below was from Tuare Island, where we found ourselves the second morning at sea His shot ran in National Geographic, and then Alert Diver used it for the cover of our Winter 2018 issue We couldn’t be in the vicinity without paying homage to the same reef, so while the rest of the group dived at the nearby Joelle’s Reef, one of the dive guides escorted me to the island in the boat’s inflatable so I could shoot over/unders there.
I was lucky to find some local children in their dugout canoe They were gracious about posing, particularly after our crew managed some bartered model fees for them While the “over” was compelling with the island and the kids topside, the “under” didn’t match the corals from Doubilet’s image His photo is from 2013, and being there in October 2024 demonstrated that global warming has taken its toll on the shallow reef, where the coral was sparse compared with a little more than a decade ago That wasn’t the case everywhere we dived, but as a historical referent this reef confirmed that nowhere is immune from climate change
Not wanting to get skunked by missing Joelle’s, which is consistently referenced as one of Kimbe Bay’s premier dives, I joined the day’s second dive. I was excited for my great fortune in finding right under the boat a particularly photogenic balled-up anemone, its lavender mantle providing a lovely contrast with the resident clownfish
During the week I discovered that the balled-up-anemone visual is typical along many reefs Maybe it was the time of the day, month, or year, but it eventually became almost mundane to see them along the reef Schools of batfish and turtles complemented the pristine lettuce coral decorating the reef slope
THE WITU ISLANDS
The long-range weather forecast suggested the winds might pick up later in the week, so we decided to run overnight north and west to the Witu Islands There is less protection from a swell while offshore, so we wanted to visit the Witu and Fathers Reefs sites while we could We could duck back to the protection of Kimbe Bay if the seas got choppy We awoke to a before-breakfast giant stride on a dive site called Widu South.
A LARGE ELEPHANT EAR SPONGE AND A PAIR OF SOFT CORAL TREES COHABITATE AT BARNEY’S REEF IN THE WITU ISLANDS.
A LARGE ELEPHANT EAR SPONGE AND A PAIR OF SOFT CORAL TREES COHABITATE AT BARNEY’S REEF IN THE WITU ISLANDS.
DIVER WANDA MORGENSTERN SWIMS BY A BROADCLUB CUTTLEFISH.
DIVER WANDA MORGENSTERN SWIMS BY A BROADCLUB CUTTLEFISH.
The reef was resplendent with branching corals, primarily various species of staghorn, just beneath the mooring Not so long ago I would usually have swam past these acres of contiguous hard coral fields while searching out colourful soft corals or schooling fish at greater depths However, the recent collapse of so many of these reefs to coral bleaching forced me to pause and marvel at what remains, still so vibrant and pristine These reefs are free from dynamite fishing, cyclones, crown of thorns sea star predation, or any of the other myriad water-quality challenges our reefs in the Western Hemisphere face This kind of environment is why we travel
At Goru Arch we entered a realm of deep indigo water with the lavish soft corals and sea whips that are emblematic of PNG. The site is a long arc of reef with pockets of marine life, including sweetlips at cleaning stations, midnight snappers, and masked pufferfish. Wire Bay (pronounced like weary) is more of a black sand bay, making a 100mm macro lens better suited for it I found good opportunities with spinecheeked anemonefish, lizardfish, twinspot gobies, and nudibranchs too plentiful and diverse to ignore
Keeping with the theme and without needing a lens change, The Crater delivers more nudibranchs and charismatic critters such as blue ribbon eels, peacock mantis shrimp, and octopuses
Barney’s Reef begs for wide angle for the soft corals and massive orange elephant ear sponges decorating the wall At the same time, nearby Krackafat adds schooling jacks, barracudas, and batfish to the Witu visual stew
If I had to pick a single favorite dive of the whole trip, it would be Kilibob’s Knob in the morning after our overnight steam to Fathers Reefs. While I swam from the dive platform to the seamount, a large school of
approachable batfish caused me to dawdle in midwater By the time I approached the reef, a firestorm of strobes brought a pair of cuttlefish into view Being late to the scene, I hovered in midwater until my friends abdicated the photo ops, and then I moved in to get a few shots The cuttlefish never moved more than a few feet, which I took as confirmation that our proximity was not overly intrusive Topping the ridge there were abundant anemones with various species of clownfish and a large school of bigeye trevally
The Arch is another iconic Fathers Reefs wide-angle destination noted for the abundance of pink and red soft coral clusters that provide dramatic accents for the coral arch in the background. Capt. Alan Raabe of the Febrina was the first to dive many of these sites, and while they are now moored and familiar from the decades of dive charters, I can imagine how thrilling it would have been to be among the first to see a site like this or Jayne’s Gully
I made a strategic blunder while diving Bradford’s Shoal, a seamount at the mouth of Kimbe Bay that rises to 65 feet (20 m) from about 6,560 feet (2,000 m) deep at the bottom It was the third dive of the day, and I wasn’t going to do 45 minutes at 60 to 80 feet (18 to 24 m) as we were briefed, so I planned to enter the water later and still come up with the rest of the group It was calm and extraordinarily clear, with zero current What could go wrong?
The big schools of barracudas and jacks were there, exactly as we were told, but they were no longer reef adjacent and had moved to midwater The moral of the story is to be there early and move slowly The fish apparently don’t like lots of bubbles and flashes I’ll know better next time
Given the days of stellar visibility we had in the Witu Islands and Fathers Reefs earlier in the week, I was not unhappy. I needed more
WITH TUARE ISLAND IN THE BACKGROUND, YOUNG CHILDREN IN A DUGOUT CANOE POSE FOR A PHOTO.
WITH TUARE ISLAND IN THE BACKGROUND, YOUNG CHILDREN IN A DUGOUT CANOE POSE FOR A PHOTO.
A MASSIVE FIELD OF STAGHORN CORALS COVER THE TOP OF THE SEAMOUNT AT WIDU SOUTH IN THE WITU ISLANDS.
A MASSIVE FIELD OF STAGHORN CORALS COVER THE TOP OF THE SEAMOUNT AT WIDU SOUTH IN THE WITU ISLANDS.
critter captures, and Christine’s Reef delivered My favourite was my final shot of a pipefish While it was only at a depth of 60 feet (18 m), it was the second of two productive and time-consuming dives, so I was edging close to my no-decompression limits
This subject a male with a brood pouch with eggs running along much of his underside deserved a few more shots though Having the fish situated within a crimson sea whip for the background made it more appealing A quick review of my digital capture confirmed what my dive computer was also suggesting: It was a wrap.
HOW TO DIVE IT
Visas: PNG does not currently have a visaon-arrival process, so you must apply for your visa in advance. You will be required to make your first entry to PNG within six months of the visa grant date. Apply no earlier than six months and no later than one month before your intended PNG arrival date to ensure you have your visa for the right time Find more information on immigration at icagovpg/visa/visit/visitor and the latest travel requirements at papuanewguineatravel/
Use the official PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority website (icagovpg) to apply for a tourist visa Choose the Easy Visitor Permit (30 Day) You will be asked for evidence of funds (a bank statement), your passport page, and a cover letter provided by your destination services provider Ensure you have at least one blank page in your passport and that your passport is valid for at least six months from your PNG departure date All travellers must show a return or onward ticket
Getting there: Most international air travelers will enter PNG at Port Moresby International Airport. If you are connecting to an Air Niugini domestic flight on the same
day, a domestic check-in transfer counter is just past the customs desks Once you have your domestic boarding pass, you can proceed to the domestic terminal, which is a short walk from the international terminal To dive Kimbe Bay you will need a domestic flight to Hoskins Airport and then it’s a 55minute drive to the hotel and boats
If you are flying into PNG with Air Niugini and connecting the same day to an Air Niugini domestic flight, you should be allowed an additional 33 pounds (15 kilograms) of checked luggage for dive gear This arrangement is between PNG Divers Association and Air Niugini, but not all counter staff know this, so you may have to remind them. The regular weight allowances for economy passengers on Air Niugini are 50 pounds (23 kg) for international flights and 35 pounds (16 kg) for domestic flights unless you have prepaid for more.
Insurance considerations: Before you depart, make sure to choose comprehensive travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, accidents, medical care, and loss of baggage The nearest hyperbaric chamber is in Port Moresby PNG does not have an emergency rescue organisation, and a diver evacuation, if needed, must be arranged with private air transport companies Since the expensive emergency transportation and treatment costs are each guest’s responsibility, you will be required to have evacuation insurance suitable for divers visiting remote areas
Malaria prevention: Consult your physician or a travel doctor about malaria-preventative medication or other necessary vaccines before your trip Malaria is prevalent in New Guinea but easily prevented Whether taking an antimalarial or not, the best preventative measures are to use a personal mosquito repellent and cover up during the early morning, late afternoon, and early evening hours with loose, lightweight cotton clothing. Typically, mefloquine (Larium) is
DISCO
THE DISCO CLAM
ALES) REFLECTS LIGHT ALONG THE EDGES OF ITS MANTLE TO DISCOURAGE PREDATORS.
ALES) REFLECTS LIGHT ALONG THE EDGES OF ITS MANTLE TO DISCOURAGE PREDATORS.
A
THE
CLAM (CTENOIDES
(CTENOIDES
not recommended as an antimalarial for divers because some side effects mimic symptoms of decompression sickness Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) is the preferred antimalarial medication for most divers
Currency and payments: PNG’s currency is the kina Before your trip, you can exchange cash at currency counters within most international airports Resorts and liveaboards accept US dollars and credit cards, so there is no reason to carry kina unless you intend to shop in the village
Environmental and Safety Fee: A $9 per dive day fee supports the recompression chamber and the work of the PNG Divers Association
Dive conditions: Water temperatures generally range between 81°F and 88°F (27°C and 31°C) year-round, which is suitable for a 3 mm wetsuit While the water is warm enough to wear only a rash guard or shorty, there are stinging corallimorphs on the seafloor, so it’s prudent to have skin protection for legs and arms
I’m not going to lie, the Arctic is COLD The weather there is extreme They say, “You don’t visit the Arctic, you experience it”. Trying to find the courage to bail off the side of a dive boat when it is -12°C and snowing takes everything you’ve got.
Make no mistake, I was excited to be there. It was the realisation of a lifetime dream. I doubt there’s a YouTube video left that I haven’t watched from researching for this trip But nothing fully prepares you for how incredible the Fjords of Norway are, and how deep you have to dig into yourself to embrace the adventure, than actually being there
Orcas, of course, populate all of our planet's oceans But most of them are transitory, moving over vast expanses of open ocean, so difficult to dive with As far as I’m aware, there are only two places in the world where we can find them with much success In the Sea of Cortés off Mexico during their summer, and in the very northern Fjords of Norway in their Arctic winter
ORCA KINGDOM
CHASINGSHADOWSINTHEARCTICCIRCLE
TEXTBYDENNISGUICHARD
Dennis Guichard is a multi-agency qualified Scuba Instructor Trainer & a DAN ‘Master Dive Pro’ member He is a qualified Offshore Diver Medic, Saturation Life Support Technician, and an UHMS Hyperbaric Technologist.
A most incredible spectacle of nature occurs in the northern Fjords each winter Atlantic herring congregate en-masse within the relative protection of the Fjords in order to spawn And chasing those bait balls of herring to gorge for the winter feast, is one of the greatest gatherings of fin whales, humpback whales, and orca on earth
Orcas differ around the world They differ in body shape and also in what they predominantly feed on The orcas we get passing along our South African coastline are large-mammal feeders, known as Southern Ocean Type A’s They prey on our great white sharks as we well know, and will also feed on seals, whales, and other large ocean creatures at will
There’s no known incidence of an orca harming a human anywhere in the world,
but we don’t know for sure that these local orca will ignore us particularly when feeding That said, some divers have been getting in the water with them during Sardine Run expeditions and have enjoyed incredible experiences in doing so But they are very much a rare chance occurrence
The orcas that congregate off Norway are known as North Atlantic Type 1's These species specifically feed only on small fish, such as mackerel and herring They are considered quite safe to dive with, as larger mammals (like humans) do not form part of their diet Their gathering in large numbers also makes these trips worthwhile as they are almost guaranteed to be seen
Just getting to them is quite an adventure in its own right. From the sweaty tropics of Durban, it is an overnight flight to Dubai,
another long-haul to Oslo in Norway, and then a 2-hour domestic flight up north to Tromsø From there, a 4-hour drive in blizzard white-out conditions, driving a lefthand-drive hire car with snow tires, up into the Arctic Circle at 70°North to a small fishing village called Skjervøy (pronounced Shjervay)
There are several operators offering trips to dive with the orcas in northern Norway Most of them are live-aboard type experiences operating predominantly out of Alta, which is slightly east of Skjervøy and on a different part of the fjord network However, the two operators in Skjervøy offer day trips that last about 4 hours each. This works out to be more affordable, gives us a comfortable night back in the warmth of our hotel, and provides flexibility to go out looking for the Northern Lights if they happen to put on their light show. The Arctic winter days are very short, with only a few hours of daylight at best. From mid-November to midJanuary, the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon at all due to the northerly latitude of the location
I’ll be honest, I battled with the conditions here The cold is quite something, being out on the open sea in weather totally alien to us soft tropical folk We had a tough weather week when I was there, with the wind whipping up the sea, and my own courage diminishing in direct proportion The Arctic is beautiful It is utterly breathtaking But it is a tough environment
We can all catch ourselves living uninspired lives sometimes, working away at our desks amidst the dull drudgery of daily life And we can question quite what the function of being is I hope that when my days here are done, I will be able to look back with satisfaction in knowing I dared greatly We don’t have to succeed each time we dare, but we win by giving life our best regardless. It is said the real stoke of life is found when we are living on our own edge. Having the
difficult conversations that drive meaningful growth And doing the things that bring us joy, in whatever form that might have the most meaning to each of us Visiting the Arctic in winter to dive with orca is certainly walking life on its edge, by my yardstick anyway
These orcas are incredible They are matriarchal by nature, meaning they are led by the eldest female in any family What really strikes you is the utter size of them The bull male can reach over 6m in length, with its dorsal fin standing as high as a fully grown man And that they feed on something as minuscule as a herring, literally one by one, makes you wonder how on earth and how long it takes them to get a belly full.
Immersion pulmonary oedema (IPO) is a real concern when diving in cold water like this. But one always has peace of mind knowing DAN has your back wherever you might be diving in the world We freedive and snorkel in drysuits (you can’t scuba with Orca) and wear 7mm hoodies and gloves, so we do what we can to keep warm The adrenaline runs so hard that you almost don’t notice the cold anyway, almost
I have unfinished business with the Arctic I didn’t get to see the northern lights when I was there, as the blizzards were relentless And I feel I can do better by getting into the water to experience more of these incredible creatures So, I’m already booked to return for winter 2025 to try again
Life is short, and tomorrow’s not guaranteed for any of us You know those bold things you've always wanted to do? You should go do them!
Chasing Shadows In The Arctic Circle!
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Michael Clarke, Group Director, Watersport & Marine Division, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, PADI® Course Director, explains why he chooses DAN
CYERCE NUDIBRANCHS
CYERCE NUDIBRANCHS
JEWELS OF THE OCEAN
IMAGING | TEXT & IMAGES BY ADAM SOKOLSKI
Cyerce nudibranchs are among the most extraordinary and graceful creatures one can encounter underwater These tiny yet mesmerising molluscs from the family Caliphyllidae possess a near-fairytale quality as if they were plucked from another reality, woven from mist, glass, and light. Delicate and filigree-like, they’re nearly transparent, and their cerata the frilly extensions on their backs look like glass petals swaying with the rhythm of the ocean
I’ve been photographing nudibranchs for years, but Cyerce hold a special place in my heart They are beautiful, unique, and completely addictive Each encounter feels like discovering a new gem on the ocean floor
DELICACY AND CAMOUFLAGE
What fascinates me most is the contrast between their ethereal appearance and their evolved survival strategies Their cerata function is respiration, but they also serve as both adornment and defence, providing camouflage, and often containing stinging cells (borrowed from their prey like sea anemones or jellyfish) These cerata can even be shed (much like a lizard’s tail) when the nudibranch feels threatened The body of a Cyerce is often almost translucent, with subtle iridescent patterns or colourful highlights edging the cerata. Up close, they resemble glass sculptures fragile yet intricate.
TROPICAL TRAILS
These sea slugs inhabit warm, tropical waters throughout the Indo-Pacific region
You can find them on coral reefs, among algae, seagrass, or soft corals, where they feed and seek shelter They typically range from just a few millimetres to a few centimetres long, making them hard to spot without patience, a trained eye, or, more often than not, a knowledgeable local guide.
ROMBLON AND OTHER UNDERWATER MECCAS
The island of Romblon in the Philippines is considered one of the best places in the world to observe and photograph Cyerce species It’s a true paradise for macro enthusiasts and divers seeking underwater treasures I recently had the chance to visit this island with a group of underwater photographers Thanks to the excellent guides from Sunset Cove Romblon Dive Resort, who know the local reefs inside and out, we were able to find several Cyerce species and capture some truly satisfying shots
While Romblon has become my personal “Cyerce mecca,” I’ve also encountered these nudibranchs in other parts of the IndoPacific such as Tulamben in Bali, and Pemba and Zanzibar in East Africa Each location offers something unique, but they all share one thing: the incredible biodiversity of the underwater world and the opportunity to encounter these tiny yet stunning reef dwellers.
A PHOTOGRAPHIC CHALLENGE
Capturing a Cyerce on camera is not an easy task. They are small some nearly transparent and often surprisingly quick. Lighting is key:
CYERCE ELEGANS NUDIBRANCH
ELEGANS NUDIBRANCH
CYERCE ELEGANS NUDIBRANCH
CYERCE ELEGANS NUDIBRANCH
CYERCE KIKUTAROBABAI NUDIBRANCH
KIKUTAROBABAI NUDIBRANCH
CYERCE NIGRA NUDIBRANCH
CYERCE NIGRA NUDIBRANCH
the angle, the softness of the flash, and the interplay of shadows that bring out their delicate structures without overexposing the details Sometimes it takes angelic patience and dozens of attempts before that perfect moment arrives when the nudibranch strikes the ideal pose or gently unfurls its cerata
MY FAVOURITE CYERCE ENCOUNTERS
Over the course of my travels, I’ve been lucky enough to photograph several truly remarkable members of this genus:
Cyerce nigra – with a semi-transparent body and smoky dark cerata often adorned with a subtle yellow pattern. Mysterious and elegant.
Cyerce bourbonica – whose cerata resemble flower petals: semi-transparent with yellowish or orangey tones, bordered by white edges with pink highlights. A pure poem of form.
Cyerce cristallina – looks like it’s made of ice Its nearly invisible body and iridescent cerata make it one of the most delicate species I’ve seen
Cyerce elegans – a slender body with colourful, semi-transparent cerata decorated with bold, contrasting patterns Beautiful, just as the name suggests
Cyerce kikutarobabai – reminds me of a tiny underwater butterfly Its greenish body and cerata splashed with white, purple, and orange are an explosion of colour
Each species has its own unique charm and character Photographing them feels like curating a miniature art gallery made of microscopic masterpieces
IN CONCLUSION
For me, Cyerce nudibranchs aren’t just some sea slugs to check off a list they’re kind of the whole reason I love underwater photography It’s about slowing down, noticing the little things, and getting totally lost in the tiny details. In a world that’s always in a rush, these little guys are a reminder to pause, breathe, and really look around. Because sometimes, hidden in the seagrass or tucked into the coral, there’s this tiny, almost alien-like creature just hanging out and for a moment, it makes everything feel a little more magical
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM
@adam sokolski bluepix
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Windell John Regional Watersports Manager Eastern & Southern Caribbean Region, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, PADI® IDC Staff Instructor, explains why he chooses DAN.
GONIOBRANCHUS GEOMETRICUS NUDIBRANCH
GONIOBRANCHUS GEOMETRICUS NUDIBRANCH
SNOOTINUNDERWATER MACROPHOTOGRAPHY IMAGING
ADVICEFORUNDERWATERPHOTOGRAPHERS
TEXTBYADAMSOKOLSKI
@adam sokolski bluepix
ADAM SOKOLSKI AND YODA
ADAM SOKOLSKI AND YODA
Underwater macro photography is the art of capturing the details of the tiny world hidden beneath the water’s surface When diver-photographers want to highlight minuscule creatures in their natural environment, they turn to various lighting techniques One of the most creative and effective is the use of a snoot – an accessory that transforms how light reaches the subject
WHAT IS A SNOOT?
A snoot is essentially an attachment for a strobe or continuous light that narrows and concentrates the beam into a tight spotlight This allows the photographer to precisely illuminate a selected part of the scene – for example, just the eyes of a shrimp, the antennae of a nudibranch, or a single intricate detail of a coral.
Snoots come in a variety of shapes and sizes – from simple DIY tube-shaped designs to
professional models equipped with focusing lenses, fibre optics, and adjustable beam sizes
WHY USE A SNOOT UNDERWATER?
Light Control: A snoot allows you to light only a chosen part of the scene, eliminating distracting backgrounds This makes the subject clearly stand out as the hero of the frame
Theatrical Lighting Effect: The focused beam creates dramatic contrast – images become more artistic and often resemble studio shots, even though they were taken several meters underwater
Backscatter Reduction: Water is filled with microscopic particles that can reflect strobe light and ruin a shot. By narrowing the beam, a snoot minimizes this unwanted effect.
Maximizing Poor Conditions: When visibility is low, the bottom is silty, or there's a lot of suspended matter, the snoot lets you isolate just what matters Instead of fighting the entire environment, you can focus on the micro world and extract its beauty despite unfavorable conditions
CHALLENGES OF WORKING WITH A SNOOT
Precision Targeting: Shooting with a snoot is often a trial-and-error process You have to learn how to “hit” the tiny subject with your light beam – sometimes a moving one
Working with a Buddy: Using a snoot alone is tough, and having a helper is beneficial. But not every diver wants (or knows how) to be a photo assistant –especially if they have their own dive goals.
Requires Patience: Snoot photography isn’t
the easiest – especially at the beginning Properly positioning the light, setting up the camera, and patiently waiting for the right moment all take time, focus, and calm But that’s exactly why every successful photo is so rewarding
PRACTICAL TIPS
Practise on Land: Before diving, practise setting up the snoot on dry land or in a pool
Use a Strobe Aiming Light: This helps guide your snoot beam to the right spot more easily
Choose a Professional Dive Centre or Private Guide: If photo quality is your goal, look for dive operators where guides are used to working with photographers and know how to assist effectively with snoot work. Ideally, hire a private guide – then the whole dive can revolve around photography.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Sometimes it's worth breaking the rules – like backlighting your subject or shooting from below Creativity pays off
FROM THE AUTHOR
Personally, I love the black background effect and how the snoot can completely isolate the subject from its surroundings It gives the image a surreal quality – like the creature is floating in a void However, I’m not a fan of the so-called “plate” effect – the even, round light circle under the subject I much prefer when the light casts an irregular shadow, adding a sense of realism and depth to the shot
I took my first steps with a snoot from Retra – unfortunately, it turned out to be quite difficult to use, mainly because the aiming light didn’t align with the actual flash. Today,
I use the Backscatter setup – the snoot combined with the MiniFlash 2 It’s one of the most popular options on the market, and for good reason – it’s compact, userfriendly, and very intuitive to operate underwater
SUMMARY
Using a snoot in underwater macro photography opens the door to a completely new style of shooting With this small accessory, you can achieve spectacular effects that make your images stand out from the crowd While it requires patience and skill, the reward of unique shots is well worth the effort
So next time you dive with your camera, don’t forget your snoot – it might just be the key to your underwater masterpiece.
ProsChooseDAN TrustedWhenItMattersMost
Tec Clark, Associate Director, Scuba Diving Nova Southeastern University, explains why he chooses DAN
PARTING SHOT
ADAM SOKOLSKI
Equipment Used: OM System OM-1 Mark I camera with 90 mm macro lens in Nauticam housing with Backscatter MF2 strobe and snoot
Location: Anilao - Philippines
Image Description: Batwing Coral Crab
This photo shows a Carpilius corallinus megalopa, captured in Anilao, Philippines, while it was tucked among a tangle of hard corals in the tropical waters where this species is commonly found I used a snoot lighting setup to isolate the subject and highlight its unique features, bringing the focus entirely onto the crab despite the complex, textured background
The megalopa stage is a fascinating and rarely observed transitional phase in the life cycle of crustaceans at this point, the organism begins to resemble a crab but still retains a large, extended abdomen Capturing this stage in the wild provides a rare glimpse into a crucial moment of development that often goes unnoticed
REVIEW
FROM DAN MEMBER
WERNER UYS
Every year, as I prepare for the annual night dive in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, South Africa, I feel reassured knowing that DAN has my back What an incredible organisation! The testimonials, like the one shared in their latest newsletter, are truly inspiring it’s amazing to see how deeply they care for divers, the community, and the oceans we love
A heartfelt thank you to DAN for their unwavering support! I wholeheartedly encourage every diver to become part of the DAN network you won’t regret it
CALLING THE DAN HOTLINE
WHEN SHOULD I PHONE THE DAN HOTLINE?
All diving emergencies
Non-diving medical emergencies
Diving medical information, such as fitness to dive, medication, and travel medical advice and enquiries
Travel notifications and advice
Diving medical examiner contact details
International medical centres or doctors who want to confirm DAN memberships
WHAT DO I NEED TO HAVE READY?
The caller and/or patient’s name and contact number
The nature of the emergency
The patient’s DAN membership number, if applicable or known
The patient’s medical aid information, if the incident occurred within South Africa
The patient’s travel insurance information, if applicable
If the caller is not at the scene, at least one local contact number should be provided in order to reach the person that is in need of assistance, or those who are in charge of their care.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I HAVE LOGGED THE EMERGENCY?
DAN makes a conference call to one of the on-call diving medical officers (DMOs) when an emergency call is received and the nature of the event has been established. The DMO will provide specialist diving medical advice regarding how and what should be done immediately and will also make decisions concerning the further management of each case, depending on the situation
WILL I GET EVACUATION BY AIR?
Aeromedical resources, such as helicopters and air ambulances, cannot be dispatched unless authorised by the DMO. It may take longer to activate an air ambulance than it would take to mobilise emergency medical services via a ground ambulance Several factors, aside from costs, will determine aeromedical evacuation
The DAN hotline provides emergency medical assistance to injured divers. We encourage you to call early, even when you are uncertain, rather than wait until the situation has become critical as the opportunity to assist becomes more restricted
THE INJURY DIVE ESSENTIALS
IMPORTANT FACTORS TRANSPORT
THE AVAILABILITY OF TRANSPORT
Is an air ambulance or a helicopter available?
THE NATURE OF THE INJURY
How urgently does the patient need advanced life support and should they be moved to intensive care?
THE LOCATION
THE LOCATION OF THE PATIENT
What are the optimal logistical considerations for efficiently and safely moving the patient to a place where they can receive medical assessment and appropriate medical care, with appropriate medical support, during the transfer?
LANDING ZONE
VARIOUS ASPECTS REGARDING THE LANDING ZONE OR AIRPORT
Are these appropriate for a helicopter or a fixed-wing air ambulance? Are these open, particularly at night? What are the customs or immigration requirements? What are the implications of getting the patient to the landing zone or airport, or the crew to the patient?
