Cape RADD’s Snorkel for Science trips have been a big hit, with the number of participants and trips increasing by the year. As we explore the Great African Sea Forest, all participants have contributed to our data collection of sharks as well as funding conservation efforts. These important actions increase Read more…
Kelp refers to large brown seaweeds found along South Africa’s west and south coasts, with two main species: Sea Bamboo (Ecklonia maxima) and Split Fan (Laminaria pallida). These underwater forests support diverse marine life and provide valuable bioproducts for industry, e.g. Biofuel, alginates, fertilizers, Bioplastics, Pharmaceuticals etc. Let’s explore how Read more…
At Cape RADD, we offer a SCUBA for Science program, where any SCUBA certified diver can assist us with collecting data in the Great African Sea Forest. Become a Citizen Marine Scientist for the day, learn about the amazing marine life, explore the underwater world and contribute to conservation. All Read more…
Cape urchins are integral to the kelp forest ecosystem. These spiny creatures graze on the kelp and other algae, keeping the growth in check and help maintain the balance of the Great African Sea Forests. This helps thin the thick dense canopy allowing sunlight to reach the lower levels of Read more…
The African penguin is a popular species for tourists and locals to admire. However, due to past and present human activities, their populations are rapidly declining. As a result, various conservation institutions have established the #Not On Our Watch (#NOOW) public movement to raise awareness and increase public action. To Read more…
Marine Little 5 is a new term, so before we get into it, let’s look at the history of this idea. South Africa has coined the term Big 5. It relates to our beautiful, game, land animals. The Big 5 includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo, and elephant. The Big Read more…
Let’s learn about the Dark shyshark (Haploblepharus pictus) a shyshark in the family Scyliorhinidae. This shark is indigenous to the South African coastline preferring temperate waters. It features dark brown to black colouration, blending into rocky reefs and sandy bottom habitats. This species measures around 60 – 70 cm, with a Read more…
Citizen science is a tool that uses the collective efforts of ordinary people to contribute to scientific data collection. Although a new term, people have been contributing to science for a long time. Cape RADD utilizes citizen science to collect data while fostering a love for our ocean. One of Read more…
The 1st of August was Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day, a day to celebrate marine reserves across the planet. Cape RADD, along with many other organisations, had events that educated citizens on the role these areas play in conservation. We offered five free snorkelling sessions inside the Table Mountain Nation Read more…
Let’s learn about the Puffadder shyshark (Haploblepharus edwardsii), a shyshark in the family Scyliorhinidae. This shark is endemic to the South African coastline preferring temperate waters. You can often find them in rocky reefs or sandy bottoms inshore. Ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of up to 130 meters. Read more…