The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) is a research charity and a Maldivian NGO who work with a focus on not only research but also conservation and outreach initiatives. What initially began as an exploratory expedition in 2006 has evolved to become the Maldives’ only long term research entity dedicated solely to the iconic, endangered whale shark.

MWSRP’s Achievements
Key achievements include assisting the government with the designation of South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa) as a marine protected area. This designation remains significant as this whale shark aggregation is composed largely of juvenile males who are highly resident to the atoll. From the data collected we know that SAMPa hosts a one of a kind year round aggregation. It also has a high site fidelity rate. Aided by the help of citizen scientists, MWSRP are able to obtain deeper insight into the lives and movements of these gentle giants.

Citizen Science
Citizen science is a key component of MWSRP’s work. Citizens, including local guides, marine biologists and tourists, can contribute to the research and conservation by submitting their encounter notes and photos of the whale shark. With a photo of the pectoral side, MWSRP can identify individual whale sharks as each animal has their own unique spot pattern. By determining individuals, with the aid of pattern recognition software, it is possible to map population distribution across the country. In the year 2022, for example, 90% of encounter data came from citizen scientists.

In Baa atoll citizen science is absolutely key. This region sees whale shark and manta ray aggregations for feeding opportunities in the South West monsoon season. MWSRP have observed connectivity across both study sites. Some individuals journey between atolls at certain times of the year to partake in the planktonic feeding opportunities. Until the year 2022, MWSRP were not able to be physically present within the atoll. They were solely reliant on citizen science data. This year MWSRP will be present in the atoll. MWSRP will work in conjunction with Kihaa Maldives, Ocean Dimensions and the local island of Dhonfanu throughout the months of August and September.

Collaboration
For the month of September 2024 Kihaa Maldives and Ocean Dimensions are hosting lead in field Coordinator Chloe and MWSRP interns Ziyan and Zim from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme. Throughout the month MWSRP will host weekly informative presentations for Kihaa Maldives guests on the big screen on the beach. And of course they will conduct their research surveys in the area. Research methods include photo ID, baseline data collection, drone surveys, environmental data collection and opportunistic fecal sampling. Whale shark measurement via use of a non-invasive stereo video rig and plankton sampling for an ecotoxicology study specific to aggregation sites across the Indian Ocean are also part of the research.

The aim of MWSRP is to advance the field of whale shark science and knowledge. And at the same time advocate for sound conservation policy in the Maldives, and we are happy to contribute.