So what's it all about?

I am raising money in order to complete some scientific research for my Masters dissertation. This will look at the feeding patterns of herbivorous fish when faced with predatory pressure. Herbivorous fish play an extremely important role in helping to keep coral reefs healthy by eating algae that threatens to compete for space. Predators of these fish can affect how herbivores act and their feeding patterns, directly impacting their important contribution to reef ecosystems. This research aims to look into the complex relationship between predator and prey, and how this is impacts our coral reefs at a time where coral reefs are under a huge amount of stress.

About me

I am currently completing a Masters degree in Tropical Marine Biology at Essex.

After spending a lot of time diving and witnessing the damage that corals are suffering, I realised I wanted to try and contribute something to protecting these unique ecosystems! Therefore, I began a journey into marine biology, to help protect the reefs and marine environment for future generations.

What is my project?

To complete my research I will be travelling to Indonesia, and diving in some of the most diverse waters in the world. I will use a decoy predator underwater to monitor the herbivores feeding patterns when this 'predator' is present.

This research is important as it is relatively new and will tell us a great deal about the relationship between predators and prey and how this affects coral reefs today.

But why?

Coral reefs are home to more than 25% of all marine fish species and have existed for over 500 million years! Nearly 75% of all remaining coral reefs are threatened, and many have already been lost. With this in mind, completing new research on factors affecting coral reefs has never been more important.

Where will the money go?

This project is estimated to cost £6000 and I have already secured £2800 through grants and fundraising. I am now hoping to crowdfund the rest with myself making up any final shortfall. The total breakdown of costs is as follows:

if the minimum is reached

If I reach my minimum target of £2200, the funds will go towards the project fee (£1600), all research equipment and general equipment. I will then fund the remaining expenses myself.

If the minimum is exceeded

Any extra money raised will go towards the final portion of the project fee and any contingencies (back-up equipment and spares). If this goal is exceeded any further, I will use this money to upgrade equipment in order to get better results, images and rewards for donors.

Rewards

To thank my donors, I have a list of rewards, check them out!

Help me to succeed!!

By donating you will be contributing to a piece of research which will help us to protect our coral reefs for the future. Without clear understanding of ecosystem relationships, we have no chance of saving them

Any kind of donation is appreciated, however if you cannot donate please help to spread the word by sharing my page.

Also please feel free to follow me on social media;

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martyn.pollard.3

Instagram: martynjakins

Twitter: @martynjakins