Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Launches Scientific Based Book

After two years of extensive research and studies, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is launching a ground-breaking research-based publication unveiling the rich biodiversity of the island’s renowned house reef. This is the first time a resort in the Maldives has undertaken such an extensive reef assessment and scientific research-based study.

The study, led by Australian Marine Conservation Society’s Director, Dr Selina Ward, alongside fish and coral experts, Dr Storm Martin and Dr Hannah Markham – all who have conducted extensive research work on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef – records the wide array of Kihavah’s marine life and the delicate equilibrium of the reef and the urgent need for marine conservation efforts, especially in the age of global warming.

Anantara Kihavah’s General Manager, Sjefke Jansen says: “It’s important to have the knowledge and understanding of the reef, in order to know the scale of work to be done and by conveying its beauty and fragility in our book ‘Wonders of Kihavah’, we aim to provide the groundwork for ongoing marine conservation and encourage our guests to participate in our conservation efforts.”

Raising the importance of the hospitality industry’s role, Dr Ward stresses the utmost need to reduce carbon emissions to save coral reefs for the future. “In the period until emissions reductions become effective, we can work towards enhancing reef resilience, improving water quality, addressing land use impacts, removing threats such as overfishing and destructive fishing practices, and engaging in innovative restoration techniques for priority areas, such as beloved locations around resorts and essential regions serving as sources for coral and fish larvae. There are many innovative restoration techniques now that require the use of very small volumes of existing corals and targeted use of reared coral larvae.”

Dr Ward emphasises the severity of marine heatwaves as a threat to coral reef health and survival worldwide, causing bleaching events with potentially devastating consequences. Reef recovery is possible, but the frequency of heatwaves is critical for their effectiveness. Intensified cyclones, sea level rise, and ocean acidification also damages and hinder reef growth.

Among the study’s findings is the recording of 300 fish species on Anantara Kihavah’s house reef, many of which are illustrated by vivid photography.  With such a wide range on the reef, guests can encounter different species every time they enter the water to snorkel.  The study also includes a comprehensive fish index, indicating the areas around the island where these species are found. As many as 160 of these species can be observed from the resort’s SEA Underwater Restaurant in a single day, providing non-divers with the opportunity to enjoy the fish and coral sights. With different fish species being most active at various times throughout the day, diners are treated to an ever-changing display through the restaurant’s windows.