Watercolours Dive Centre Blog

Very well done Bjørn and Trine for completing the Reef Check Eco-Diver course and passing all sections! The Reef Check course is not as easy as you might think… but Bjørn and Trine passed with flying colours and now look at the reef with new eyes. Previously, we have received both charity donations (Kota Budaya Lions) and had companies (e.g. Sime Darby) adopt reefs and send their staff to survey them. Bjørn and Trine are the first tourists on the islands to undertake the Eco-Diver course and we give them hearty congratulations! Well done guys. Who’s next?

Pictured is Dr L. Lee Grismer of La Sierra University, USA (left) and Chan Kin Onn from the Universiti Kebargsaan, Malaysia (right). Both have just visited the Perhentian Islands in order to study the islands unique reptile and amphibian population. Little is known about the Perhentian Islands fauna and the guys are keen to reveal some of its secrets.

Watercolours was proud to play host and Anke (centre) and I were their nocturnal jungle guides. We had a great time finding geckos and frogs! Both Lee and Chan will return soon to continue their exploration of the Perhentian archipelago, including the Susu Dara islands with Jesse and J.R. (University of Louisiana, USA).

Lee has just informed us that his trip last year revealed FIVE new species, which he is currently in the process of describing. These species are probably only found on the Perhentian Islands. Dr Grismer points out that these species could be impacted by over-development of the islands due to the Perhentian’s small size.

Guys, we really look forward to seeing you again later in the year. We hope your work revealing our unique fauna will help ensure future construction being very carefully planned in order to protect the island’s natural beauty.