The Aow Thai Marine Ecology Center (ATMEC) is an independent ecological initiative recently setup in the Gulf of Thailand. The goals of ATMEC are to promote and conduct independent research and conservation projects across the Gulf of Thailand, all while engaging in the education of the marine environment across all age groups. ATMEC was co-founded by Dr. Rahul Mehrotra, a Conservation Diver instructor, and Nancy Gibson, director of Love Wildlife Foundation, Thailand.
The project is based in Bangkok but all courses will be taught at the island of Koh Mun Nai, with active fieldwork being carried out throughout Rayong province, and much of the Eastern Gulf of Thailand. Research and conservation projects at present focus on coral reef and soft sediment habitats, with additional projects on sea turtle identification and the impact of discarded fishing gear on marine ecosystems.
Opportunities Available
At present, ATMEC offers three courses at specific times of the year, available between October and April. In addition, up to 4 internship positions are available for those wishing to engage in marine research projects with ATMEC. Various standalone Conservation Diver courses are available on a case-by-case basis.
Courses Available
| Title | Coral Reef Ecology | Benthic Ecology | People and the Sea |
| Description | An in-depth look into the various ways in which coral reefs influence and are influenced by the marine world. A particular focus is made on the threats to corals reefs. | Ever wanted to be a part of real-life exploration and discovery? Do you want to learn about seahorses and nudibranchs just as much as corals and sponges? This is for you. | An understanding of the marine environment is incomplete without seeing the various ways in which humans influence the marine world. For better or worse, we are the future of our oceans. |
| Duration | 3 weeks (in Oct. or Feb) | 3 weeks (in Mar. & Nov.) | 2 weeks (in Dec. & Apr.) |
| Price | 35,000 THB | 35,000 THB | 25,000 THB |
| Includes | Transport from BKK – Island Accommodation Minimum 15 dives + Equipment 3 Conservation Diver certifications Transport back to BKK | Transport from BKK – Island Accommodation Minimum 15 dives + Equipment 3 Conservation Diver certifications Transport back to BKK | Transport from BKK – Island Accommodation Minimum 10 dives + Equipment 2 Conservation Diver certifications Transport back to BKK |
Contact Info
To find out more, visit their website at www.atmec.org
Alternatively, ATMEC staff can be contacted at:
atmec@lovewildlife.org and facebook.com/atmec.org
