Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) has opened the Nekton Maldives Expedition Taxonomic Workshop at Maniyafushi Research and Training Station to evaluate the specimens.
Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan inaugurated the five-day workshop on taxonomic identification at a special ceremony. He highlighted the importance of the Nekton Maldives Mission, as it collected data on the country’s ocean territory, which is crucial to the national economy.
MMRI stated that it has received many requests to join the workshop, which include individuals in the fisheries sectors, marine researchers, and teachers. It stated that participants will be given the opportunity to evaluate the specimens during the workshop. An international team of experienced scientists will be providing information on the specimens.
The Nekton Maldives Mission began the survey in September 2022. The survey used videos to look closely at the presence of life at different depths of the sea and its surroundings. It also examined the formation of the seabed, what species live in different areas, and why they live in those areas. The survey showed the richness of marine life at a depth of 500m. The specimens collected during the expedition will be evaluated with participation from the government, private sector, and interested individuals.