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drying shark fins
Demands of the shark fin trade

Global challenges and evolving threats: A comprehensive analysis of shark fishing

The ancient group of marine predators, which first appeared in the fossil record 440 million years ago, are facing a critical juncture in their existence. Though they have been resilient to other mass extinctions, the current one is caused by decades of industrial overfishing along with the growing demands of the shark fin trade. It has put those shark and ray species accessible to fisheries at risk of extinction, with far-reaching consequences for ocean ecosystems.

Rare Phoenician wreck site in Malta

Due to its deep depth at 110m, the wreck site off Xlendi Bay at Gozo Island required innovative methods to be developed for deep-water archaeology.

During an underwater cultural heritage mapping survey in Malta in 2007, researchers noticed an unusual feature in the sonar data. This anomaly stood out due to its size, shape, and the possibility of human-made objects. Further investigation confirmed the presence of an ancient 2,700-year-old shipwreck.

Shark dorsal fin with shark still attached.

Shark conservation: A critical reassessment needed

Over the past two decades, sharks have become emblematic of the world's threatened wildlife, leading to heightened scientific, regulatory and public scrutiny. However, a recent study challenges the effectiveness of these protective measures, revealing that global shark mortality has not only persisted but increased, despite increased regulations and finning bans.

SDI introduces new scuba instructor certification

This certification aims to recognise dedicated SDI Instructors and provide new professionals with a clear milestone to strive for.

One key objective is to acknowledge the accomplishments of SDI Instructors while encouraging the growth of the next generation of diving professionals. This rating celebrates their achievements and is designed for active SDI instructors committed to producing skilled divers.

South Korea: Diving, Nature Trails & Fine Dining

Hypselodoris festiva nudibranch, or blue dorid, showing off its vivid blue colors. Photo by Drew Holder.

South Korea has a lot to offer underwater photographers, recreational divers, and technical divers, from wall dives and artificial reefs to a variety of marine life and a wide array of nudibranchs, not to mention topside attractions to enjoy between dives, from beautiful nature parks and scenic trails to cultural events and fine dining. Drew Holder gives us an inside look.

Bull shark

Reevaluating shark societies: Challenging the myth of dominance-subordination hierarchies

In 1954, Warder C. Allee and Joshua C. Dickinson conducted an experiment on the smooth dogfish aimed at establishing dominance-subordination hierarchies in Chondrichthyans. This pioneering study, which lacked subsequent testing and analysis, has laid the groundwork for a persistent belief in rigid social structures among sharks. The dominance-subordination hierarchy, which is modelled on the social structure of the chicken, was proposed without convincing evidence in the context of Chondrichthyan vertebrates.

Various types of glass, porcelain, wooden sculptures, coins, and a 17th century iron cannon are some of the hundreds of items the four men are accused of removing from the bottom of the Baltic Sea from various shipwrecks.

Baltic Sea shipwreck plunderers sentenced to prison

In a pivotal legal decision, the Court of Appeal in Sweden has revised the sentences of four men convicted in 2022 for offences against Sweden's heritage laws. These individuals were found guilty of plundering several wrecks off the coast of Öland, challenging the preservation of national heritage.

From 2013 to 2020, the convicted men retrieved a multitude of artefacts from shipwrecks near Öland, using some to adorn their homes. Dive logbook entries suggest that their activities may have begun as early as 1987.

Why Buddy Dive Resort is the best destination for the Ultimate Family Vacation

Can you imagine a dive trip with the entire family? Sharing your love for the ocean with your children or seeing them have their first scuba experience in a safe and calm environment? Family cannonballs in the pool or have the kids getting to know all the fish in the ocean? 

Let Buddy Dive Resort welcome you and your family for the perfect family vacation.

As a family business, we know exactly what you need for the entire family to have the best time. Buddy Dive offers a wide range of kid’s programs and dive courses for kids of all ages.

The kelp forests within the sanctuary provide habitat for a variety of fishes and other animals.

MPAs: Catalysts for both marine health and scuba diving

The findings from UC Santa Barbara’s Marine Science Institute provide compelling evidence of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) value to the scuba diving industry and local economies. As global leaders aim to protect 30% of land and water by 2030, understanding the diverse benefits of MPAs is crucial for informed decision-making and sustainable coastal management.