​​​​​​By gathering detailed in-water data on turtles, we lay the foundation for informed management, impactful outreach, and the development of responsible tourism experiences. A key part of this effort is the implementation of a rigorous underwater monitoring protocol tailored to Tobago’s unique marine environment.

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At the ERIC, we implement a Standardised Underwater Turtle Visual Census Protocol aimed at monitoring sea turtle populations in the coastal waters surrounding Tobago. This method forms a critical part of our marine conservation efforts, allowing us to track long-term trends in turtle abundance, health, and habitat use. Surveys are conducted by certified dive teams, including a dive leader, scientific leader, and trained community-based field technicians, all of whom are well-versed in species identification and data collection techniques.

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Each month, teams conduct SCUBA-based surveys at eight established reef sites, selected for their accessibility, safety, and ecological significance. During each dive, divers follow a carefully coordinated formation, swimming at consistent depths and distances to maximise coverage while minimising the risk of double-counting individuals. Turtles are observed non-intrusively and, when possible, photographed to support species identification and future recapture analysis. Detailed data is recorded on each sighting, including species, estimated size and age class, sex, behaviour, location in the water column, and surrounding habitat type.

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This protocol ensures a consistent and ethical approach to in-water turtle monitoring, with procedures aligned to international best practice and adapted to local conditions. The information gathered contributes to a growing database, informing both scientific research and conservation management decisions aimed at protecting these important marine species.

 

Download the full Underwater Turtle Visual Census Protocol

For more information on our under water turtle monitoring please email info@eric-tobago.org.