Publication of the State of the Marine Ecosystem in Tanjung Bira – 2023

We are proud to announce the publication of the State of the Marine Ecosystem in Tanjung Bira – 2023, the first large-scale scientific report from Indo Ocean Foundation and Indo Ocean Project’s Bira Chapter.

This report represents over a year of ecological monitoring across 13 dive sites in South Sulawesi, combining the efforts of our staff scientists, local partners, and a tireless team of Divemaster and Research Diver Interns. Together, they carried out a comprehensive suite of surveys to capture a true picture of Bira’s marine ecosystems:

• Roving Surveys documented reef fish, sharks, rays, and sea turtles through in-water observations, providing critical data on biomass, abundance, and species diversity.

• Benthic Surveys used photographic quadrats to measure coral, sponge, algae, and substrate composition — revealing how the reef structure underpins marine life.

• Marine Debris Monitoring was conducted both underwater and along beaches, recording the prevalence of fishing gear, plastics, and other waste that continues to threaten these fragile habitats

The result is a baseline assessment of reef health and megafauna populations, alongside documentation of the conservation challenges facing Tanjung Bira. These include destructive fishing practices, bycatch, and plastic pollution — threats that must be addressed to secure the future of both local livelihoods and biodiversity. 

Behind every data point are the interns, citizen scientists, and staff who dedicated their dives, skills, and passion to this project. Their contributions, alongside the support of dive partners, community collaborators, and international organizations, have made this milestone possible.

The publication of the State of the Marine Ecosystem in Tanjung Bira – 2023 is not only a benchmark for conservation in South Sulawesi but also the beginning of a series of annual reports from Indo Ocean Project sites across Indonesia. By sharing ecological data openly, we aim to contribute to public knowledge, support evidence-based marine management, and guide policies that balance biodiversity protection with community needs.

Access the complete findings from our 2023 ecological monitoring in Tanjung Bira. This 133-page open access report shares the data, insights, and recommendations that will help shape the future of marine management in South Sulawesi.