Fish
and Invertebrate Identification Courses
The
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary offers two special classes
for individuals who favor the refreshingly brisk New England waters.
These programs are designed to introduce divers to the diversity
of wildlife in the Gulf of Maine.
Fish
ID
COURSE
DESCRIPTION: Learn how to distinguish between a winter and
summer flounder; learn about color variations in sea ravens; find
out how cod, haddock and pollock are similar but different. Begin
a personal life list of fish sightings - just as birders do for
avian species. The course covers 53 species found from Maine to
Connecticut, and teaches the roving survey method for participants
who want to take part in the Great Annual Fish Count and Fish
ID data collection program of the Reef Environmental Education
Foundation.
LOCATION: Courses are offered at New England dive clubs,
regional dive shows, or other venues where divers may congregate.
DATES: Check the SBNMS
Calendar for postings of upcoming classes.
COST: The course is offered free of charge
ON-LINE COURSE: A simplified version of the Fish
ID course, with special reference to sanctuary species, is
offered in the education section.
Invertebrate ID
COURSE
DESCRIPTION: If you're interested in studying marine biodiversity,
the study of invertebrates is key. A plethora of species from
numerous phyla can be found in the Gulf of Maine. The sanctuary
designed this course to give divers the opportunity to appreciate
the wildlife they see during their New England dives. The course
ranges far beyond the commonly known species of northern lobster,
sea scallop and northern red anemone, and includes a special component
on invasive species of concern. The sanctuary is working with
the scientific community to train divers to recognize these invaders
and to provide a front-line, early-warning network of underwater
eyes.
LOCATION: Courses are offered at New England dive clubs,
regional dive shows, or other venues where divers may congregate.
DATES: Check the SBNMS
Calendar for postings of upcoming classes.
COST: The course is offered free of charge
ON-LINE COURSE: A simplified version of the Invertebrate
ID course, with special reference to sanctuary species, is
offered in the education section.
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