Indonesia 2008 & 2009

     AquaTouch joined Nudibranch specialist David Behrans in 2008 for a survey of benthic marine organisms in both Manado and Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. AquaTouch representative Michael Janes followed this exploratory investigation with a more detailed survey of xeniid soft corals in Lembeh Strait during two weeks of diving in May, 2009.   

     Manado and Lembeh Strait are located about one degree north of the equator, along the Celebes Sea just south of the Philippines. This volcanic region is quite active with nine volcanoes in the North Sulawesi area alone. Marine fauna abound in the quiet protected areas with nutrient rich currents supplying a regular food source. Many unique and endemic species take up residence on the coral reefs and sand patches here.   

     The popular Banggai or High-Fin Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni Koumans, 1933) is sold in the aquarium trade. It originated from the Indonesian island of Banggai and is said to have been introduced to other Indonesian areas including Manado in the mid 1990's. Populations of the fish are now expanding, especially in areas like Lembeh where no aquarium collection of this species takes place. We noticed a significant increase in the number of individuals living in the central part of Lembeh strait over the time between our visits.

     There are a number of small commensal organisms to be found among corals and other invertebrates. Additionally, parasitic creatures such as flatworms and crustaceans (red bugs) are seen in the wild just like ones found in aquariums.  

      This part of Indonesia is also known for the recently described Mimic Octopus (Thaumoctopus mimicus Norman & Hochberg, 2005). It remains unclear if this octopus takes on the appearance of other marine animals (like a lionfish or sea snake for example) in a conscious way or if it just looks that way when divers observe it.  

     Both hard and soft coral communities are well represented on the reefs of this region. While there are few studies showing the species diversity of corals in North Sulawesi, Indonesia is still considered to be part of the great species diversity of the "Coral Triangle." 

          If You Go: 

     North Sulawesi Indonesia is a very comfortable destination for western travelers. There are weekly flights available from Singapore and other Asian cities. The Manado airport requires a US$25 entry and exit fee. Temperatures are quite warm year round with frequent rain showers. It is a good idea to take plenty of bug or mosquito repellent and use bottled water for drinking. There are many dive operators throughout the area. We recommend Lembeh divers for their outstanding guides and professional service in Lembeh Strait. For the area around Manado and Bunaken Marine Park we have had very good experience with Minahasa Lagoon Resort.