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Season Report Between November 2000 and April 2001 EcoSwiss organized and operated five research cruises in the Myeik archipelago. We provided support for studies which have added a considerable amount of new information to the knowledge base of this region, its environment and its people. A major accomplishment and important activity was the commencing of collaboration with local scientists. A marine biologist from the Mawlamyine University (Mon state) was invited on board the Sea Nomad so that he could collect water and plankton samples. This provided him with the opportunity to take photographs of coral and other marine life for the first time. The results of the study will be compiled and published in scientific reports and with an illustrated atlas. We were pleased to work with Reefcheck, an organization for the global monitoring of coral reefs, in conducting underwater surveys. We found that in spite of over-fishing and the use of dynamite for fishing, live coral coverage still reaches nearly 75 % in certain areas. This is extremely good and welcome news for everyone. Other projects for this past season include a report by an Australian filming crew for National Geographic. The program provides coverage of the research projects and activities supported by EcoSwiss in the archipelago, particularly the wild-cat survey and a study of the effects of modern times on the traditions and life style of the Moken sea gypsies. A Japanese TV project has done work on a documentary which will provide coverage of the habits and community life of the Moken people of the region. Scientists from Oxford University are also interested in these nomadic groups and EcoSwiss was asked to collect some brushings of cells from the inside of the cheeks of the males living within the Moken communities. From these brushings DNA will be then isolated and analyzed in English laboratories. The aim of this genetic study is to determine the ancient origin of these peoples. The survey on wild cats and illegal hunting has continued this season with the collection of additional information and photographs. cruise report no. 1 | home | cruise report no. 2
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