Are you a high school student curious about a career in marine biology? Join Cape RADD for a Marine Science Open Day, an immersive experience designed to give you a taste of what it’s like to be a marine scientist. We have tailored this experience for students in grades 9–12 Read more…
Recently, during an early morning dog walk at Scarborough Beach, I stumbled upon two inquisitive Cape clawless otters playfully navigating the stream. At first it was a rustle in the reeds that caught my attention. I stopped on the boardwalk, as I was passing over a small pool along the Read more…
At Cape RADD, the fusion of marine science, conservation, citizen science, education, and recreational scuba diving comes alive. Nestled in the stunning coastal town of Simon’s Town, South Africa, Cape RADD is not just a marine field station. At the Ocean hub we are trying to build a community of Read more…
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…