Aow Thai Marine Ecology Center (ATMEC) is a marine science focused initiative by Love Wildlife Foundation, aimed at providing education in marine biology and ecology to students of all ages. ATMEC also prioritises conducting original research and conservation projects, in collaboration with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), in the Gulf of Thailand. The field station is based at Koh Mun Nai, Rayong, throughout most of the calendar year.
Through ATMEC, students and researchers are given exclusive access to stay on the island which is closed to the public outside of visiting hours. Our facilities on the island are largely run off solar energy, with sustainable use of resources the focus of every daily activity. The island is under the jurisdiction of the DMCR and, as a key location for migratory birds, is also an avian research site. Our current research projects include studying coral spawning and recruitment, investigating several new species of marine invertebrates, assessing threats to coral reefs from sedimentation to discarded fishing gear, and much more.
Education efforts at the center combine theoretical classroom conditions with practical activities in the sea and in the lab. In-depth SCUBA training is provided for a variety of marine science topics via independent courses and those certified by Conservation Diver. Our research and education activities are supervised by qualified marine scientists and SCUBA professionals to maximise quality and safety.
People can get involved by applying for our marine ecology student courses, or highschool students can organise custom courses by contacting us directly. However, for those wanting the full ATMEC experience and wish to pursue their next step in a career in marine science orconservation, we offer a handful of internships every semester. Alternatively,for those wishing to support us, we are always on the lookout for more equipment and materials to improve our program. Donations can be made at the Love Wildlife website or by contacting us directly!
Within coral reefs, many animals rely on a curious yet remarkable relationship to stay alive. In this video, we check out how some nudibranchs exploit this relationship to act as tiny slimey solar panels.
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