A large number of reefs within the inner granitic islands of the archipelago of Seychelles could be entirely lost, unless concerted action is taken soon to control crown of thorns, warns Dr. Udo Englhardt, the expert on on the management of crown of thorns in a...
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Fears of crown of thorns Starfish outbreak in Seychelles Coral Reefs
A large number of reefs within the inner granitic islands of the archipelago of Seychelles could be entirely lost, unless concerted action is taken soon to control crown of thorns, warns Dr. Udo Englhardt, the expert on on the management of crown of thorns in a presentation of his most recent findings. Dr Udo Englhardt, believes this outbreak of the deadly starfish is due to increasing levels of human development in the Seychelles coupled with rising sea temperatures. Dr. Engelhardt has conducted this research as part of their ‘Mainstreaming Biosecurity’ project organised by the UNDP and Global Environment Facility (GEF) in conjunction with the government of Seychelles. The outbreak which was in the north western areas of Mahé two months ago, has now spread further down the western coastline as the starfish continue to spawn. The starfish can be seen on reefs between five and 25 metres deep and are not commonly found in shallow waters. It preys on strong hard coral polyps and is named crown of thorns as its upper surface is covered with thorn like spikes.
The crown of thorns starfish, one of the largest in the world, occurs at tropical and subtropical latitudes and have been found from the Red sea, across the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. This venomous starfish has been found in Seychelles as early as the 1960s in small numbers and an extensive eradication programme was conducted in 1997. During the 1998-99 El Nino coral bleaching, the crown of thorns died off too. However, they began to re-emerge in 2001-2003 and have now bounced back in alarming numbers. This April, a coral reef survey by Dr Engelhardt found that numbers of Crown of thorns in the reefs were 20 to 30 times greater than sustainable levels. He also found that there were at least three generations present, including a substantial number of juveniles in the under reef strata – a good predictor of future outbreaks reports the Seychelles news agency.
10 Reasons to Visit the Seychelles
There is no doubt that Seychelles should be given priority on everyone’s list of dream vacations. This archipelago nation is beautifully located in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles is composed of 155 islands, filled with beautiful sights, exciting adventures and activities, as well as plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Whether you are searching for a secluded vacation or a romantic getaway with a loved one, Seychelles has something to offer to everyone.
If you still need more reasons to be convinced, consider these 10 reasons why you should visit the Seychelles:
#1: The Attractive Beaches
The number one reason why a lot of people travel to the Praslin Island is to take advantage of its sandy beaches and sparkling blue water. On top of that, you also have the chance to enjoy the waves, the sun, the scenery, as well as a whole bunch of beach activity options. This beautiful island is home to many of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. You will certainly feel relaxation here.
#2: Seclusion
While it is true that there are a lot of beautiful beaches in the world, Seychelles is still very special because of the seclusion that it offers. If you want to simply getaway from the hustles and bustles of the city life, this is your best option.
#3: The Wonderful Culture
One of the most wonderful things about this paradise is the wonderful culture that it offers. The culture is an interesting mix of Asian, African, and European cultures.
#4: Unique Cuisine
The local food is one good reason why you should visit this paradise.
#5: Amazing Dive Spots
Snorkelling and scuba diving are some of the most famous activities that most tourists enjoy when visiting La Digue.
#6: Flora and Fauna
When talking about sea life, the waters surrounding the area are home to tropical fishes, which are also completely diversified.
#7: Opportunities for Hiking
Perhaps your concept of a perfect vacation means exploration. You will certainly enjoy Morne Seychellois National Park. You may also visit the World Heritage Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve for another option.
#8: Island Hopping Opportunities
There are 155 islands in the nation, and none of them are exactly alike. Therefore, you can experience something different when you do island hopping.
#9: Parasailing Activities
From the top, you can have an amazing view on the beaches, as well as the amazing rock formations surrounding the area.
#10: Good Weather
Because you are in a tropical area, you can expect a warm weather all year round. Therefore, it can be considered as a perfect destination on your next travel adventure.
Now that you have added ten more reasons on why you should visit Seychelles, why not start planning your itinerary now and have that dream vacation you have always wanted.
Come to Seychelles for the SUBIOS 2014
Vacation destinations are definitely becoming the means by which people and their families are starting to spend their holidays. And if you’ve ever wanted to travel to Seychelles, then now is the perfect time to do so. With the SUBIOS 2014 festival, there will be even more events and activities for people to become involved in.
The Seychelles Festival of the Sea is an annual film and image festival that is entirely focused on being underwater. It has a rich history, having been held for the past twenty-five years and has been showing no signs of stopping. The entirety of the day is involved with snorkelling events and diving activities that are fun for the whole family. Underwater activities typically take place throughout the day, and also include free programmes and slide shows that are presented by some of the most renowned guest speakers from all over the world.
This marine-based event even comes complete with film and photograph contests that many of our locals and foreign guests have taken part in. There are many prizes to be won in a variety of categories, including “Best Image”, “Best Video”, “Best Local Video”, and “Best Image of Seychelles”, just to name a few. These events and activities not only speak of the importance of the marine world and the part it plays in the environment of Seychelles, but it also helps to spread that message to the rest of the world.
The Seychelles Festival of the Sea is much more than a film and image festival, but there’s also the celebration of the wonderful dishes that are created from the marine-based environment. With fresh cuisine that has been harvested fresh from underwater sources, chefs battle it out to see who can create the most unique seafood dish that brings together all of the rich flavours that the sea has to provide. Awards are presented at the end of this cooking competition, with the winner getting bragging rights as well to carry with him for the rest of the year. It isn’t a real vacation at Seychelles until you’ve had a taste for their flavourful cuisine and dishes.
The SUBIOS 2014 is slated to be one of the biggest tourism events of the year, so it’s important that you don’t miss out on this annual event. SUBIOS 2104 is slated to be held at the Eden Blue Hotel on Eden Island on November 21, but the activities will be spread across the island and will be held by other hotels as well, including the Four Seasons Resort and the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa. Come and explore the depths of Seychelles’ seas and become involved in the underwater environment and how much it enriches the lives of the people that live here.
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