On Koh Tao, Thailand—a global hotspot for dive tourism—reefs are under constant strain from physical damage, pollution, and rising sea surface temperatures that cause coral bleaching. As an intern with Conservation Diver, I contributed to the reef conservation efforts of the New Heaven Reef Conservation Project, where I was involved in coral spawning and larval culturing research, daily ecological monitoring efforts, and in the building, installing, and maintaining of artificial reefs.
These artificial reefs are just a few of the many installed around Koh Tao as part of ongoing restoration efforts, many of which are the incredible work of underwater sculptor Arnold Spencer - Drowning Sculpture. His underwater sculptures are by far the coolest you'll ever discover while diving! Blending art with ecology, Drowning Sculpture reefs help reduce dive pressure on natural reefs, provide essential habitat for marine life, and support coral growth by offering stable hard substrate for attachment.
