Information about Oceans Research

Ryan Johnson is the research co-ordinator for Oceans Research. His time is split between identifying and overseeing Oceans Research projects and hosting marine wildlife documentaries for the National Geographic channel.

Enrico Gennari's research focus is on the thermal eco-physiology of the white shark at Mossel Bay Marine Lab, aimed at obtaining holistic insights into this apex predator's thermal niche and thermal physiological abilities, using advanced telemetry methods and anatomical dissections.

Yara Tibiriçá is conducting her doctor research on the status of diving tourism in Mozambique. Yara now heads up Oceans Research Manta Ray project, where she is determining the impact of divers on the integrity of Manta ray Cleaning stations and pristine reefs at Zavora Marine Lab, Mozambique.

Justin Blake is conducting his doctoral research on the habitat use and behaviour of the bull (Zambezi) shark at Ponta Region, Mozambique. His research aims to establish critical habitat requirements, essential for the survival of the local bull shark population.

Ryan Daly´s doctoral research is centered on modelling the energetic energy flow within the Ponta Region region, Mozambique. Through stable isotope analysis of the bull sharks and potential prey species, he aims to describe tropic level relationships in this unique ecosystem

Dr. Elwen conducted his masters and doctoral research on cetaceans in the Western Cape, South Africa. His current research is assessing the impact of dolphin tourism on the behaviour of dolphins in the Walvis Bay region.

Ecology of marine mega-vertebrates (cetaceans, seals & basking sharks) & static acoustic monitoring of odontocetes. Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies, Right Whale Aerial Survey Program

Toby Keswick, a founding member of Oceans Research, has conducted white shark research in Southern Africa since 2001. His current research focus is on tortoise ecology in central Namibia. In 2010 he will be spearheading Oceans Research preliminary project on turtles.

Dr. Lindseys´s expertise is centered on the conservation of Africa´s terrestrial fauna. Through balancing the needs of indigenous communities and conservation, he has made major developments in the management of uniquely african protected areas. Hi expertise is now being used to promote marine conservation in Southern Africa.

Nico has worked as an aquarist at the Shark Lab since 2007. His work consists in the management of the aquarium's curio shop (Carcharias) and general aquarium operations.

David Edwards´ passion and desire to be actively involved with marine wildlife led to contributing to Oceans Research, with a view to developing multimedia and software dedicated to organisations involved with research, conservation and ecotourism.

Lezanne works as the administrative manager for Oceans Research, and is completing her undergraduate study in zoology at UNISA.

Florence April is the domestic cleaner and cook for the Mossel Bay Marine Lab.

Thesis title: Development and assessment of shark detection devices for coastal occurring sharks.

Thesis title: Impact of intensive fish farming activity on the behaviour of white sharks at Mossel Bay, South Africa.

Thesis title: Predator prey games between the white shark and Cape fur seal at Mossel Bay, South Africa.

Thesis title: Investigation of the diurnal movements, behaviour and habitat use of coastal delphinids in Mossel Bay: top predator sympatry and anthropogenic impacts.

Thesis title: Population composition and abundance of the white shark at Mossel Bay, South Africa

Thesis title: Effectiveness of dorsal fin identification techniques using natural markings on great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias).

Prof. Bester is one of Africa´s foremost marine mammal scientists. He has acted as academic supervisor and mentor to Ryan Johnson for the past 10 years. He is also supervising postgraduate students: Justin Blake, Storm van Tonder, Thomas Mufanadzo and Oliver Jewell.

Dr. Paul Cowley is one of Africa´s foremost marine scientists using acoustic telemetry to investigate life histories of marine fish species. He is supervising Oceans Research scientist Enrico Gennari.

Dr. Sheldon Dudley is a senior scientist at the Natal Shark Board investigating the population status of numerous shark species in South Africa. Sheldon is Ryan Johnson´s academic supervisor.

Dr. Smale is one of Africa´s most renowned elasmobranch scientists. His research focus is on species such as the spotted ragged toothed shark, tiger shark and whale shark. He is currently working on Oceans Research "Project Bull shark" and acting as academic supervisor to Ryan Daly.

Professor Froneman´s research interests include investigating the Southern Oceans off Africa´s South Coast and Estuarine research. As one of Africa´s foremost specialist on stable isotope research, he is supervising Ryan Daly´s research into ecological energetic modelling.