A professor and noted expert in marine biology and biodiversity studies at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Professor Gavin Maneveldt, is advocating for Cape Agulhas to receive Marine Protected Area (MPA) status. His research indicates that this region harbours unique species not found anywhere else globally.
According to Cape Argus, Professor Maneveldt claims the coastal areas around SANParks Agulhas National Park are so rich in unique marine life that they warrant special protection.
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‘The Struisbaai-Agulhas area is unique. Some species occurring here cannot be found anywhere else in the world,’ he said.
Every year, during National Marine Week, Professor Maneveldt leaves his laboratory setting for the rugged shoreline of Stinkbaai in the Agulhas area. He collaborates with SANParks staff to champion the case for an MPA in the region.
Alongside his research students and fellow scientist Dr Martin Hendricks, Maneveldt works to educate local communities about marine ecology and the importance of sustainable resource management.
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Rain or shine, participants convene at 8am to take part in Maneveldt and his team’s educational outings. These sessions have become a staple in the community, offering learning opportunities for attendees of all ages.
‘The field lecture ends on the low shore, where we encourage participants to turn over boulders in a rock pool while always being careful to put them back exactly how they were,’ Maneveldt explained.
‘Whenever learners attend, we let them find exciting things, which always results in fascinating fact sessions. They come running with cushion stars, feather stars or rock suckers.’
Nadier Roos, a UWC graduate and teacher associated with the Overberg Eco Rangers in Bredasdorp, lauded the efforts of the UWC team.
‘Prof Maneveldt has established a good connection and relationship with our organisation. We have been attending his programme for the past three years, and we have seen a change in attitudes in our learners,’ Roos said.
‘They have developed a love for conservation; the more they understand an animal’s role, the more you would hear them encouraging their peers not to kill animals or organisms because they now understand their role in their environment. They enjoy the learning experience, and we find an appreciation of what they have in their environment.’
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Picture: Agulhas Country Lodge / Facebook