Indonesia Trav-E-Log ©
More Raja Ampat
| |
| back: Raja Ampat, West Papua | Pristine coral, Friwinbonda |
Dec 1 - 4, 2015, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia Note: All photos taken with SJ Cam in underwater housing using natural lighting, while snorkeling.
Babu Bill
Question? Contact me at the Juno.com address Dancer2SEAsia.
Have a nice day!
Special Topics:
-------------------------------------------
Like most places in the world, much of the coral in Indonesia has suffered from dynamite fishing; floating garbage and in particular plastic bags; overfishing; and warming of the oceans. The very narrow reef on the west side of Friwinbonda was visited on 4 December. Much of it is under an overhang from the steep cliff face. Consequence: Sheltered from the sun half the day; not enough territory/too dangerous for the fisherman to use dynamite. End result: Pristine coral.
-------------------------------------------
Two members of a small school of mega-fish -- bumphead parrotfish, about 3 feet long! South side of Mansoear Island. 
Saw this mega school of fish while snorkeling around the docs at Airborei Island after lunch. A total wall of fish, so thick one could not see the coral. I swam right into the middle of the school, making them a little uncomfortable. They cleared out a small area around me, but soon totally surrounded me. 
I describe this as pink sponge coral. I'd be happy to properly label if someone would like to identify it. The yellow item is a heart ascidian. Friwinbonda 
Beautiful display of soft corals. Friwinbonda 
Blue starfish and heart ascidian (yellow) amongst other jewels. Friwinbonda 
Wonderfully diverse reef with no damage, a real treat. Friwinbonda 
Questions: Did you turn off the TV? Take a walk with friends? Go to a dance? Then have a fabulous day!