Research Summary
Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, Thailand — Thailand's coral reefs are some of the most magnificent and diverse ecosystems on Earth. Like many of the world's reef systems, Thailand's reefs are facing the pressures of destructive fishing practices, as well as the threats posed by global warming and coral diseases. Reef Check, a non-profit organization, has been monitoring and surveying coral reefs around the world to provide baseline data to management organizations since 1996. Now, Dr. Georg Heiss and Kim Obermeyer, both of Reef Check, are joining forces with Earthwatch to survey Thailand's resplendent coral reefs and monitor the effects of marine protected areas as well as recovery from the 2004 tsunami. With this information, government agencies and local communities can better manage and conserve these beautiful reefs. Reef Check also works with local communities to provide training in coral reef management and sustainability.
Meet the Scientists
Georg Heiss
Reef Check
”Reef Check Thailand needs divers and snorklers like you to help gather valuable baseline and long-term data on coral reefs in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea. We study reefs using the presence and abundance of key indicator species of fish, invertebrates, and coral. We also investigate the effectiveness of marine protected areas and the impacts and recovery from the tsunami of December 2004. Join our research to one of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth in Thailand's beautiful islands.”
Dr. Georg Heiss is the coordinator for Reef Check Europe and holds a Ph.D. in Natural Sciences. He has more than 15 years of experience in coral reef research with various international and academic agencies, most recently with the Centre for Tropical Marine Ecology in Bremen, Germany. Dr. Heiss’ past research has focused on coral reef growth and paleoclimatology as well as human impacts. He has 10 years’ experience doing Reef Check training and surveys in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. His hobbies include sailing and boating and he speaks German, English and French, plus some Arabic. He may lead training and surveys for some Earthwatch teams.
Kim Obermeyer
Reef Check
Kim Obermeyer has been the coordinator for Reef Check Thailand for the past five years and holds M.S. degrees in Conservation Biology and Environmental Management and Policy. He has developed and managed several projects and survey expeditions around Thailand and Southeast Asia related to coral reefs and marine conservation. Obermeyer has a broad background in biology, having worked as a researcher studying marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems in Asia, Europe, Alaska, and New Zealand. Being on the sea, boating, diving and surfing are his favorite hobbies. He has lived in Thailand for six years and speaks Thai well. He is the overall project coordinator and will lead training and surveys for most Earthwatch teams.