Peter and Sebastian from Germany have just spent 18 days with us at Two Fish and did a little more than just diving. Both from University Landau in Germany, Peter is currently working on his PhD. and Sebastian assisting him with research as an internship for his diploma in Environmental Sciences.
As part of their research, they collected samples of sediment from different depths and dive sites in both Lembeh and Bunaken, and then sifting through looking for a specific family (Turridae) of tiny Gatropods (sea snails). The aim of the study is to compare different areas in the Indo-Pacific by analyzing the diversity with in this highly diverse family.
Peter also thinks that he has found several new species – four in Lembeh and up to six in Bunaken – but he will have to wait until returning to Germany to be sure.
From here they will continue on to the Togean Islands to make a complete survey of that area as well. Good luck and keep us informed on the outcome of the new discoveries!