Oceans Research

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) play a critical role in protecting marine biodiversity, restoring ocean ecosystems, supporting sustainable fisheries, and strengthening resilience against climate change. Our infographic highlights the importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), explaining how these protected ocean zones help conserve coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and marine species while also benefiting coastal communities and sustainable ocean management. Explore the infographic to understand why MPAs are essential for healthier oceans and a more sustainable future, and read the full blog on our website.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) play a vital role in protecting marine biodiversity, restoring ocean ecosystems, supporting sustainable fisheries, and improving resilience to climate change. This blog explores the importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), their ecological and economic benefits, global conservation efforts, and how they help protect critical habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. Learn how marine conservation initiatives and research programs contribute to long-term ocean sustainability. For more insights, read the full blog on our website.

Protecting the oceans begins with simple everyday actions that can create a lasting impact on marine ecosystems. Our infographic highlights 10 powerful and practical ocean conservation tips to help reduce ocean pollution, protect marine life, and support a healthier planet — from reducing plastic use and conserving water to supporting sustainable seafood and beach cleanups. Check out the infographic and read the full blog on our website.

As global plastic production continues to rise, its impact on marine ecosystems is becoming increasingly severe. Our infographic highlights how plastic pollution affects marine life, focusing on key scientific insights such as plastic ingestion in sea turtles, internal damage in whales, and the growing threat to seabirds and other ocean species. It also presents important data trends and real-world cases that reveal the long-term biological consequences of plastic waste in the ocean. Check it out to understand the real impact, and read the full blog on our website.

Life in intertidal pools is a constant battle for survival. Our infographic breaks down the fascinating predator–prey interaction between Gilchrist’s flatworm and several snail species, revealing how mobility, detection abilities, and defensive behaviors influence which snails escape and which become prey. Check it out to see how this marine arms race unfolds, and read more in life and death in the intertidal from a flatworm’s perspective.

A calm reef encounter with a shark, highlighting the quiet balance of ocean life. Slow-moving and closely connected to reef ecosystems, these sharks play an important role in marine health. Filmed by Oceans Research Institute, South Africa. 🦈🌊

A calm reef encounter with a shark, highlighting the quiet balance of ocean life. Slow-moving and closely connected to reef ecosystems, these sharks play an important role in marine health. Filmed by Oceans Research Institute, South Africa. 🦈🌊

From sunrise intertidal studies to late-afternoon seal releases, the first week with Flinders University students at Oceans Research Institute has been nothing short of inspiring. Immersed in marine research, conservation work, and data collection, the group showed passion, teamwork, and curiosity at every step. It’s been a week that reminds us why ocean science matters — and this is only the beginning.

Contribute directly to ocean conservation through hands-on field participation. At Oceans Research Institute, we offer marine research internships in South Africa which involves monitoring, data collection, and conservation activities alongside experienced scientists. Make a meaningful contribution while gaining valuable field experience. Visit our website to learn more.

A magical moment with an endangered humpback dolphin (Sousa plumbea) in South Africa. This curious dolphin spent nearly two hours with our research boat, reminding us how rare—and fragile—these encounters truly are. With fewer than 500 individuals left locally, every sighting matters. Filmed by Oceans Research Institute, South Africa. 🌊💙

Dive into the fascinating world of marine life and support crucial conservation efforts. As a Marine Research Volunteer, you’ll assist the Oceans Research Institute in South Africa with fieldwork, data collection, and ecological monitoring. Develop practical skills, contribute to meaningful preservation efforts, and expand your understanding of ocean life alongside expert researchers. Join this impactful program today.