Scuba News-Gazette
Here, we curate the latest news, discoveries, and conservation efforts from across the web, keeping you updated on everything scuba diving. From groundbreaking research and awe-inspiring dives to essential gear reviews and travel recommendations, Scuba News is your one-stop shop for all things scuba diving. So, gear up for knowledge, and stay informed about the ever-evolving world beneath the waves!
- The 10 Best Dive Sites in the Philippines
The Philippines offers top diving destinations with reefs, whale sharks, and manta rays. The best sites are reached by liveaboard vessels for efficient exploration.
dive sites liveaboard Philippines
- Ocean Art 2023 Underwater Photography Competition is NOW Accepting Entries
The Ocean Art 2023 Underwater Photography Competition is open for entries, offering over $110,000 in prizes, attracting photographers worldwide. Various categories and prestigious prizes like liveaboard dive trips are featured. New categories include Underwater Digital Art and Underwater Fashion. Top photographers judge the competition, with a submission deadline of November 30, 2023.
Ocean Art 2023 Underwater Photography Competition
- Grading Wreck Diving Restrictions
When wreck diving, understanding the level of restrictions is vital for planning safe dives in backmount and sidemount configurations.
restrictions wreck diving
- Showa L2D Tabby Aircraft Wreck | Subic Bay
The blog post discusses the Showa L2D Tabby aircraft wreck in Subic Bay, Philippines.
Showa L2D Subic Bay Tabby aircraft wreck
- Beginner Scuba Gear – The 3 Things to Buy First
Beginner scuba divers should prioritize buying a mask, dive computer, and fins first. Investing in quality gear within your budget is crucial. Popular mask options include Cressi F1, Aqualung Reveal X1, and Fourth Element Scout. Dive computer recommendations are Mares Puck Pro, Suunto D4i Novo, and Shearwater Peregrine. For fins, options like Aqualung Storm, FE Rec, and Mares Quattro are versatile choices for beginners.
dive computer fins mask
- Episode 159 Gemma and Ian diving in the Farne Islands
Gemma and Ian explore diving and paddleboarding, announce sponsorship, share related links, and promote the BiG Scuba Podcast.
diving Farne Islands
- L2D Tabby Aircraft Wreck Photos | Subic Bay
Explore L2D Tabby Aircraft wreck photos from Subic Bay, Philippines, including cockpit shots from 45m dives.
L2D Tabby Aircraft photos Subic Bay
- News Digest – June
In June, significant measures were announced to protect shark populations. A gillnet ban in the Great Barrier Reef by 2027 and a no-take policy for all hammerhead sharks in Queensland waters aim to conserve these species. Additionally, research highlighted that major reef sharks are facing extinction risks due to overfishing, with populations declining significantly.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation reef shark The Shark Trust
- Episode #88 Scott RG – “The Mines of Scotland”
In episode #88 of Speaking Sidemount, the host reflects on five years of running the podcast and the growth it has brought, especially in diving knowledge and community recognition. The host discusses his progression from sidemount to cave diving and the challenges faced during the transition. The episode features Scott RG, a passionate diver from Scotland who excels in cave and mine diving after extensive training and dedication to the sport.
Scott RG sidemount diving Sidemount Pros - Podcast Speaking Sidemount
- Shark Senses
Sharks have complex brains that allow them to process various senses, including smell, sight, sound, touch, taste, and electroreception. They are highly skilled at detecting smells, such as blood from prey, with their sense of smell being the most developed. Sharks' ability to sense electrical currents helps them locate prey that may be hidden or buried in the sand, making them effective predators in the ocean.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean senses sharks The Shark Trust
- Shark Evolution
Sharks have existed for about 400 million years, long before dinosaurs. They evolved from small, leaf-shaped fish into two main groups: bony fish and cartilaginous fish, which includes sharks. Sharks have survived many mass extinctions, but many species are currently threatened due to human activities.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
evolution marine sharks The Shark Trust
- Shark and Ray Entanglement Network
The Shark and Ray Entanglement Network engages divers and other community members in tracking and reporting sightings of sharks and rays. By collecting this data, participants help researchers understand the distribution and health of these species. This network encourages people to be active in conservation efforts while enjoying their time in the ocean.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation rays sharks The Shark Trust
- Our Work
The Shark Trust is dedicated to improving shark conservation through a solutions-based approach. They aim to change how people understand and protect sharks globally. Their recent achievements focus on increasing awareness and promoting the welfare of sharks to prevent their extinction.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation protection shark The Shark Trust
- Survey Results: Sidemount Diving
Survey results on sidemount diving show that 84.9% of respondents were sidemount divers. Most sidemount divers use steel cylinders and choose this configuration for better valve access, passing restrictions, and trim. Many are considering sidemount rebreather diving. Non-sidemount divers interested in switching mention reasons like passing restrictions, flexibility, and ease of getting in and out of the water.
Reasons sidemount diving Survey results
- INTERNATIONAL ANGEL SHARK DAY
International Angel Shark Day is celebrated every year on June 26. The day focuses on raising awareness about the 23 species of angel sharks worldwide through social media activities, educational resources, and conservation efforts by various researchers and groups. Scuba divers and ocean enthusiasts can engage by learning more about angel sharks and supporting their preservation.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
angel sharks conservation scuba diving The Shark Trust
- CMS
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) is a treaty aimed at protecting migratory species, including sharks and rays. The CMS Sharks Memorandum of Understanding focuses on the conservation of these species and includes action plans that countries should follow to improve their status. There are two appendices for species listing based on their conservation status, with specific species categorized as endangered or in need of international agreements for better protection.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation migratory sharks The Shark Trust
- CITES
CITES, or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, is a global agreement that regulates the trade of endangered animals and plants. It includes protections for over 35,000 species, including 46 types of sharks and rays. By controlling trade, CITES aims to prevent over-exploitation and ensure that trade in these species is sustainable and legal.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
CITES endangered sharks The Shark Trust
- SPOTTED RAY (Raja montagui)
The Spotted Ray (Raja montagui) is found in the Northeast Atlantic, from Norway to Morocco, including the Mediterranean and Canary Islands. Its eggcase can be up to 12 cm long and is similar to the Undulate Ray's eggcase, though generally smaller and more common around the British coast. Many eggcases have been recorded along this coastline.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcase Northeast Atlantic Spotted Ray The Shark Trust
- CUCKOO RAY (Leucoraja naevus)
The Cuckoo Ray, found in the Northwest Atlantic, ranges from Norway to Morocco, including the North Sea and Mediterranean Sea. Its eggcase is distinctive, with a small rounded capsule and long upper horns, making it different from similar species. Underwater submissions of eggcase records are mostly from scientific surveys in deeper waters.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
cuckoo ray eggcase Northwest Atlantic The Shark Trust
- BLONDE RAY (Raja brachyura)
The Blonde Ray, or Raja brachyura, can be found in the Northeast Atlantic, from Norway to Morocco and in parts of the Mediterranean Sea. Its eggcases are larger and have unique upper horns that distinguish them from similar species like the Thornback Ray. Verified sightings of these eggcases mainly come from southwest England and surrounding areas.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
blonde ray eggcase Northeast Atlantic The Shark Trust
- SMALL-EYED RAY (Raja microocellata)
The Small-eyed Ray, or Raja microocellata, can be found in the Northeast Atlantic, especially from the British Isles to Morocco, mainly in the Bristol and English Channels. Its distinct eggcases, measuring about 15 cm in length, are often found washed up on beaches and reported during the Great Eggcase Hunt, helping to track their population.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcase Northeast Atlantic small-eyed ray The Shark Trust
- THORNBACK RAY (Raja clavata)
The Thornback Ray, also known as Raja clavata, is a fascinating fish found in the Eastern Atlantic, from Iceland to South Africa. Divers can spot its distinct eggcases along the British coastline, measuring up to 12 cm. Its eggcases can be confused with those of other rays, making them an interesting find for scuba divers exploring these waters.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcases scuba diving The Shark Trust Thornback Ray
- BLACKMOUTH CATSHARK (Galeus melastomus)
The Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) is a species found in deeper waters of the Eastern Atlantic, from Norway to Senegal, including the Mediterranean. They have eggcases that are about 5 centimeters long and are similar in shape to those of the Smallspotted Catshark. Since this species lives in deep waters, their eggcases are rarely found on shores.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Blackmouth Catshark Eastern Atlantic eggcases The Shark Trust
- NURSEHOUND CATSHARK (Scyliorhinus stellaris)
The Nursehound Catshark is a type of shark found in shallow waters of the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Divers often see this species close to rocky shores. Its eggcases are commonly found along the southwestern coast of England and Wales, highlighting its presence in these areas.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
diver ocean shark The Shark Trust
- Shark Log – The Shark Sightings Database
The Shark Sightings Database, called Shark Log, helps people worldwide record shark sightings online. It provides valuable data for researchers studying sharks, skates, and rays, which aids in their conservation efforts. Users maintain ownership of any photos submitted, ensuring they have control over how their images are used.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation shark sightings The Shark Trust
- Basking Shark Conservation
Basking Sharks are now one of the most protected shark species in UK and EU waters, after being heavily fished from 1946 to 1995. They are listed as Endangered and are protected by various laws that make it illegal to harm them. International efforts are crucial for their conservation due to their high risk of extinction.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation endangered sharks The Shark Trust
- Mobile App Terms & Conditions
The Mobile App Terms and Conditions for the Great Eggcase Hunt inform users about their responsibilities and rights while using the app. Users must provide limited personal information while the Shark Trust protects this data and uses it solely for app-related services. The app is offered for personal use and is free, but the Shark Trust can change its terms or services at any time.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Great Eggcase Hunt personal information Shark Trust The Shark Trust
- SMALLSPOTTED CATSHARK (Scyliorhinus canicula)
The Smallspotted Catshark is a common species found in the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. It is often seen by divers and snorkellers since it prefers coastal waters. Its eggcases are frequently washed ashore, making them easy to find along the British coastline.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
coastal waters eggcases Smallspotted Catshark The Shark Trust
- Mobile App Privacy Policy
The Shark Trust's mobile app, the Great Eggcase Hunt, collects personal information like your name, email, and location to help log eggcase finds. Your data is only shared with agents involved in delivering the app's services, and you consent to this by using the app. Additionally, all communications are secured by SSL encryption.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation eggcase sharks The Shark Trust
- Angling Project
The Angling Project aims to protect diverse shark species in UK and Irish waters, where over a quarter of them are threatened. Anglers are encouraged to follow best practices for catch and release, share catch records to help monitor populations, and consider the conservation status of species when fishing. This awareness can greatly aid in the recovery of shark populations, which take longer to replenish compared to bony fish.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
angling conservation sharks The Shark Trust
- How Can You Help?
You can help shark and ray conservation by joining citizen science projects. For example, participate in the Great Eggcase Hunt where you search for and record eggcases on beaches. This activity is fun for all ages and contributes valuable data to protect these species.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Citizen science conservation sharks The Shark Trust
- WHITE SKATE (Rostroraja alba)
The White Skate (Rostroraja alba) is a Critically Endangered species found in the Northeast Atlantic, ranging from the British Isles to South Africa. Though its eggcase can reach up to 28 cm in length, this species is rarely seen in British waters today. Most verified sightings of its eggcases are from southwest Ireland and South Africa.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Critically Endangered eggcase The Shark Trust White Skate
- BLUE SKATE (Dipturus batis)
The Blue Skate, formerly known as the Common Skate, is found in the Northeast Atlantic, ranging from Iceland to the southern British Isles. Its eggcases, up to 21 cm long, are often confused with those of the larger Flapper Skate. Scuba divers may encounter these eggcases in the water or on beaches in areas like Cornwall.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Blue Skate eggcase Northeast Atlantic The Shark Trust
- FLAPPER SKATE (Dipturus intermedius)
The Flapper Skate, also known as Dipturus intermedius, is a species found mainly in the Northeast Atlantic. Once widespread, its population has significantly declined, making it critically endangered in many areas. Eggcases from this species have mostly been found in Orkney, indicating their importance for conservation efforts.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcases Flapper Skate Northeast Atlantic The Shark Trust
- STARRY SKATE (Amblyraja radiata)
The Starry Skate, or Amblyraja radiata, is a ray found in the East Atlantic, ranging from Iceland and Norway to the southern North Sea. It lays unique square-shaped eggcases that can be found in the North Sea and other coastal regions. These eggcases can help divers and ocean enthusiasts recognize and contribute to conservation efforts while exploring aquatic ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcases ocean starry skate The Shark Trust
- UNDULATE RAY (Raja undulata)
The Undulate Ray is a species found in the Northeast Atlantic, from the British Isles to Senegal. It is identifiable by its unique eggcase, which can be similar in shape to that of the Spotted Ray but tends to be larger. Participation in activities like the Great Eggcase Hunt helps in the conservation of rays and sharks.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Great Eggcase Hunt Northeast Atlantic The Shark Trust Undulate Ray
- IDENTIFICATION TROUBLESHOOTER
Identifying eggcases from sharks and rays can be tricky, especially if they are damaged. Factors like broken horns, color variations, and the presence of attachments can make identification difficult. If you’re unsure, sending a photo of the eggcase can help experts verify your findings.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcases identification sharks The Shark Trust
- Eggcase Hunting
The Great Eggcase Hunt encourages people of all ages to find and document shark and ray eggcases that wash up on beaches. This project supports shark and ray conservation efforts, making it a fun and educational activity for participants. By participating, individuals can help protect these marine species and collect valuable data.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation eggcase shark The Shark Trust
- Fisheries Advisories
Fisheries Advisories provide important information about the legal status of sharks, skates, and rays in UK and EU waters. These guides help the commercial fishing industry and enforcement agencies understand regulations and best practices for handling these species. The 2024 advisories are designed for easy viewing on mobile devices and focus on regional legislation.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
rays sharks skates The Shark Trust
- EUROPEAN ELASMOBRANCH ASSOCIATION (EEA)
The European Elasmobranch Association (EEA) focuses on the welfare and protection of sharks and rays in Europe. They collaborate with groups like the Shark League and the Global Sharks & Rays Initiative to improve conservation efforts. Their work is essential for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems and ensuring these species do not become extinct.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation EEA sharks The Shark Trust
- SHARK LEAGUE FOR ATLANTIC & MEDITERRANEAN
Sharks in the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas are at serious risk due to overfishing, which is harmful to entire ecosystems. Efforts are being made to set catch limits, protect endangered species, and enforce bans on shark finning through international bodies that can enforce regulations across multiple countries. Protecting these sharks is crucial for maintaining the health of ocean environments.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation Overfishing sharks The Shark Trust
- GLOBAL SHARKS & RAYS INITIATIVE (GSRI)
The Global Sharks & Rays Initiative (GSRI) is a conservation plan launched in 2016 to improve the status of sharks and rays by 2025. This initiative involves various organizations and aims to protect endangered species, promote sustainable fisheries, ensure responsible trade, and reduce demand for unsustainable shark products. The effort focuses on creating a holistic approach to help prevent shark extinctions and improve their global conservation status.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation sharks sustainable The Shark Trust
- Research Project Collaborations
The Shark Trust collaborates with students from Plymouth University's Marine Conservation Masters program to conduct important research projects. These projects cover various topics related to sharks, including data analysis and conservation efforts. The collaboration helps students gain hands-on experience while contributing to the understanding and protection of sharks.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Marine Conservation research projects Shark Trust The Shark Trust
- Unravelling the Impact: How Your Clothing Choices Can Shape the Future of Our Oceans
Your clothing choices can significantly affect the health of our oceans. Fast fashion contributes to pollution and waste, with microplastics leaking into the water and landfills harming marine life. Adopting sustainable fashion practices can help protect marine wildlife and promote a healthier ocean environment.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
clothing marine wildlife microplastics The Shark Trust
- “Heads Up” in September 2023 with the Coral Chronicles
The Coral Chronicles in September 2023 highlights the Education Team's efforts including teacher training, a coral spawning event in Miami, and educational workshops at Zoo Miami. The team launched a teacher workshop called "Inspiring Instruction" with global reach, hosted a coral spawning awareness event, and engaged students with workshops at Zoo Miami, planning more initiatives to come.
Coral Chronicles Coral Restoration Foundation™ coral spawning Miami teacher training Zoo Miami
- A Port of Firsts – The Port of San Diego’s Maritime Clean Air Strategy
The Port of San Diego is dedicated to its Maritime Clean Air Strategy, employing technology and green initiatives. Interviews were conducted with key figures discussing the port's progress and goals.
Maritime Clean Air Strategy Ocean Science Radio podcast Port of San Diego technology
- A Newly Discovered Dive Paradise in Remote Vanuatu
A new scuba diving paradise has been discovered in Vanuatu, showcasing World War II wrecks like the SS Coolidge and Million Dollar Point. Travelers can stay sustainably at eco-accommodations and explore Little Bay Bungalow, a pristine reef site with diverse marine life and unique features. Divers must follow responsible diving guidelines to protect this untouched conservation area.
Million Dollar Point SS Coolidge Vanuatu
- Shearwater Firmware V97 For Petrel 3, Petrel 2, and NERD 2 Is Now Available
Shearwater Firmware v97 is now accessible for Petrel 3, Petrel 2, and NERD 2 dive computers, offering improvements specifically for DiveCAN controller models. Not all features are available on all models due to hardware differences.
DiveCAN hardware differences improvements NERD 2 Petrel 2 Petrel 3 Shearwater
- Diving in Malta: my top 5 dive sites all around the island
The blog discusses top dive sites in Malta with ratings on marine life, unique features, visibility, and protected areas; Dive Systems Malta and AX Palace Sliema are highlighted.
AX Palace Dive Systems Malta
- Your Business
Partnering with organizations like the Shark Trust can help businesses make a positive impact on shark conservation. Commercial supporters can donate a portion of their sales, while corporate patrons can provide stability and raise funds for long-term projects supporting marine life. Every contribution, whether cash or goods, helps protect these vital ocean animals.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
business support marine life shark conservation The Shark Trust
