By: Amkieltiela (Marine Science & Knowledge Management Officer, WWF-Indonesia)

The series of Ecological Impact Observation Activities in Kei Kecil Small Island Park (TPK) began with a two-day workshop. The purpose of this workshop is to refresh the data collection method and finalize the point and route of the trip

On Tuesday (29/9), the workshop was opened by Andreas Hero Ohoiulun as WWF-Indonesia's Project Leader for Inner Banda Arc, followed by an explanation of the expedition by Estradivari, WWF-Indonesia's Marine Conservation Science. The team was then divided into two groups according to their respective expertise, namely the fish group and the coral group. The Fish Group was given the first test of fish species identification and fish size estimation, while the Coral Group was given the first test of growth forms, benthic animals, and coral genus.

To ensure a common perception of the methods to be used, Estradivari provided a refresher on the coral health monitoring methods to be used. The material provided included data collection methods for reef fish and benthic animals. The team was then re-divided into two groups to discuss tips & tricks in fish and benthic species identification, as well as the use of coral finders for coral groups.

We then underwent the second test according to the group. This test not only serves as a refresher, but will also be used to determine the division of teams in the field. The survey team will be divided into two groups, each group consisting of five people with the composition of large fish experts, small fish experts, benthic experts, roll masters, and occasional observations.

This day was closed by finalizing the data collection points. We discussed the possibility of data collection at these points based on distance, administration, and interesting issues such as the establishment of sasi, dive sites, sacred locations, turtle nesting sites, and others. Before we knew it, the sun was gone and our stomachs were screaming. We ended the day with dinner together.