We first learned of Mapia Atoll from legendary Indonesian dive guide Larry Smith; Larry used to visit the atoll regularly with the liveaboard Cehili back in the early 90’s, and he raved about the huge fish schools, abundant sharks and generally beautiful crystal clear visibility. Sadly, the Taiwanese live reef food fish vessels reached the remote atoll (located about 100 nautical miles north... Read More →

We are very excited to announce that Dr. Richard Smith’s book is now available.  Not only is Richard a very frequent traveler to the BHS, he is also a frequent contributor to the website.  Many of you will recognize his name as the author of his ongoing “Bird’s Head-Natural History Notes” series. Most of what we know about pygmy seahorses is thanks to Richard.  His PhD... Read More →

The more mantas we know, the more we will know about mantas! Help the BHS Mantas and win the trip of a lifetime aboard one of Indonesia’s premiere liveaboards. In commemoration of the BHS Manta ID Database’s 1000thentry, the BHS has decided to run a contest.  The grand prize will go to the person who submits the most distinct manta ID images. Additionally the grand prize winner, along with... Read More →