aquatil – Science Beneath the Surface

aquatil is a German nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing aquatic science, protecting biodiversity and making scientific knowledge accessible to society. Based in Tübingen, Germany, aquatil combines scientific expertise, professional diving, citizen science and environmental education to investigate and protect ecosystems in rivers, lakes, seas and oceans.

DugongWatch – Protecting the Gentle Giants of the Red Sea

One of aquatil's marine conservation initiatives is DugongWatch, a collaborative research project focused on dugongs along Egypt's Red Sea coast. These remarkable marine mammals depend on shallow coastal seagrass meadows for food and survival. Yet important questions remain about their population size, movements and preferred habitats. DugongWatch brings together scientists, diving centers, recreational divers and conservation partners to collect sightings and photographic observations. The project aims to use citizen science and photographic identification to improve knowledge of individual animals and identify important habitats. It also promotes responsible encounters with dugongs to reduce disturbance from boats, divers and snorkelers.

Discovering Marine Biodiversity

aquatil investigates the extraordinary diversity of fish living in the Red Sea's coral reefs. Working with scientists and recreational divers, the organization collects observations that contribute to a better understanding of species distribution, biodiversity and environmental change. Such research helps reveal how marine ecosystems respond to increasing pressures, including climate change.

ReefExplorer – Bringing Ocean Science to Everyone

Through ReefExplorer, aquatil offers a free online lecture series exploring the fascinating world of coral reefs. Scientists share their knowledge of marine organisms, ecological relationships and the challenges facing underwater ecosystems. Supported by an international network of partners, ReefExplorer helps connect marine science with divers, conservation enthusiasts and the wider public.

Citizen Science for Aquatic Conservation

Beyond the ocean, aquatil develops research and monitoring projects in freshwater environments, including studies of invasive species and aquatic biodiversity. By training and involving volunteers, the organization helps generate useful scientific observations while encouraging greater public understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

Connecting Research and Conservation

aquatil believes that scientific knowledge becomes most valuable when it leads to practical action. By combining research, professional expertise, education and citizen participation, the organization builds connections between scientists and society. Its work demonstrates how people with a passion for the underwater world can contribute directly to understanding and protecting aquatic biodiversity for future generations.

Photo Credits by: ©aquatil
https://aquatil.org/