Cook Islands Ministry of Marine Resources (MMR) staff took part in a research expedition on Mangaia to monitor the island’s marine environment.

Scientists and staff completed surveys at 14 separate sites within the reef flats, along the reef crest, and on the outer reef slope, said a statement from MMR. 

It said the research would contribute to the historical data it had on the health of the marine environment.

MMR’s previous surveys on the island were carried out in 2018.

MMR, senior fisheries officer Kirby Morejohn said the work was part of normal biodiversity surveys. 

Species were also monitored which included invertebrates, all species of fish and coral health was also evaluated.

MMR staff also met with members of the Island Government, traditional leaders, and visited a school where they made a presentation to Year 9 students.

“The presentation covered the interactions between humans and the environment and how and why we monitor the environment and resource species we depend on,” Morejohn said.

“Within the Cooks, Mangaia is a leader in sustainable management of their marine resources.  

“The ra’ui system is alive and well and the island government and traditional leaders are always looking for ways to improve, reviewing the success of their current management strategies and trialing new ones.

“Mangaia should be commended for their continuous drive to ensure they’ll have food for the future and a healthy marine environment.”

The statement from MMR said the Island Council and traditional leaders will use the forthcoming report by MMR to guide decisions on ra'ui management system.

On the trip was Mangaia-based fisheries officer Tuaronga Matepi, Atiu-based fisheries officer Adrian Teiotu, fisheries officer Paul Upokokeu, project officer Fiona Pearson, marine scientist Michael Parrish and Morejohn.