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  • Three New Marine Species Discovered 2022

    Three New Marine Species Discovered 2022

    Giant Isopod

    This year divers have been able to get out more than usual. While there have been frequent discoveries of marine species, our oceans have been allowed to refresh, and animals have emerged from places we never imagined. The SCUBA community has been fortunate enough to participate in these recent discoveries of aquatic species. Wait till you hear the things emerging out of the ocean. Read about these three new marine species discovered in 2022. 

    Anti-Freeze Fish

    Can you imagine fish that perform the same way a radiator does? Glowing fish in the arctic produce their anti-freeze. Found off the coast of Greenland in 2019, these fish produce bioluminescence. Scientists were unaware of this anti-freeze property until now. After sifting through the RNA of the snailfish, scientists saw these anti-freeze proteins are in other animals in the arctic, including evasive reptile species. Ghulam Din Arctic fish is the official name of this cutting-edge scientific discovery. 

    A New Species of Comb Jelly 

    Duobrachium sparksae is the newly discovered species of comb jelly floating off the coast of Puerto Rico. NOAA classifies this as a species of comb jelly. Transparent and small, duobrachium sparksae resembles the comb jelly. Note that comb jellies are not related to jellyfish; (their phylum classifications are different.) This little floating wonder resembles a hot air balloon and walnut. They are not as dangerous to humans as jellyfish. The Smithsonian offers public access to high-definition videos of this finely detailed creature. Currently, scientists are uncertain of the role of the comb jelly in our ecosystem. 

    “Alien” Isopod

    Ready for a creature that will make your skin crawl? The alien isopod or “face-hugger” lives in the Gulf of Mexico. The official name is bathynomus yucatanensis; bathynomus yucatanensis is a different species from other isopods. This isopod tops other isopods at a foot in size. Scientists believe the immense size of this isopod derives from its existence on the ocean floor. Other crustaceans and mollusks(such as giant squids) found on the ocean floor outgrow their peers who live closer to the surface. This phenomenon is known as gigantism, and scientists believe it is an evolutionary process that occurs deep down. 

    Teeming With Life

    Scientists are constantly discovering new forms of life in our oceans. There is no end to the possibilities of species we will find in the years to come. Protecting our biodiversity is vital to the continuing survival of our oceans. Follow organizations such as NOAA and Scripps Institution of Oceanography to stay up to date with environmental advocacy. Learning about our oceans will help you to become more familiar with different ecosystems. For more information on involvement as a PADI diver, contact www.volunteerhq.org. Head to your local PADI instruction company to find out if they know of any excursions to explore a new life. By the Shore, SCUBA Instruction is a PADI instruction company in Raleigh, NC. We stay updated on new oceanic discoveries and chart dive excursions to different locations.

    Sources–New species of giant deep-sea isopod found in the Gulf of Mexico (usatoday.com)

    4 Recently Discovered Ocean Species – Ocean Conservancy

    Fish ‘chock-full’ of antifreeze protein found in iceberg habitats off Greenland | NSF – National Science Foundation

    Environmental Scuba Diving Volunteer Project in Lisbon | IVHQ (volunteerhq.org)

    What Are Jellies? Cnidarians and Ctenophores | AMNH

    Tiny new species of sea blob hovers ‘like a hot air balloon’ over the seabed | Live Science

     

  • Why You Need a Perdix 2 Dive Computer from Shearwater

    Why You Need a Perdix 2 Dive Computer from Shearwater

    The Perdix 2 dive computer, a cutting-edge computer with attachable components, sleek design, and reliable strength, is a must for the serious diver. The diving community trusts Shearwater products because of their numerous awards and certifications, such as their Teric lithium Battery certification and their Eurotek 2014 award for innovation. The dive watch company has gained notoriety among marine biologists. The safety certifications are not the only appealing factors to the Perdix 2. Its pristine appearance, which includes reliable titanium framing, adds to its distinction. If you have $1400, you can invest in a reliable, cutting-edge dive watch (one that will see you through a professional-level deep water dive); look no further. Here is why you need a Perdix 2 dive computer from Shearwater.

    Materials

    What makes the Perdix 2 sturdy, reliable, and resilient are the materials used to make it. With titanium, the armored casing surrounds the bezel. This strength enables the bezel to stay intact and give accurate oxygen readings. The piezo touch buttons are titanium which protects the integrity of the electrical makeup of the computer. The screen is made from aluminosilicate, meaning its high alkali for strength. Aluminosilicate glass can withstand temperatures of 375°C (707°F), making this an intensely reliable watch. 

    Multiple Diving Modes

    The multiple diving modes of the Perdix 2 mean that you don’t have to upload or change software, buy a special attachment, or purchase another watch. The diving modes included are a gas nitrox mode, an OC technical dive mode, closed circuit/bailout, and gauge modes. The nitrox gas mode allows optimization between these three modes: air, nitrox, and three gas nx. The OC technical mode allows the air to integrate optionally. Closed circuit and bailout modes keep PO2 at a constant, which lowers your risk of hypoxia, but the bailout gas mode allows the free flow of oxygen in case your body craves more oxygen. The gauge modes display the pressure of your tanks, depth, and time, and this mode offers a complete diving log. Ask your dive instructor which mode selection works best for you. 

    Additional Information

    Along with its multiple diving modes and state-of-the-art materials, the Perdix 2 gives off warning vibrations to alert you to potential dangers and changes in your air system. It has Bluetooth wireless technology and Cloud control available in 13 different languages. Cloud control lets you download and display dive logs quickly onto any device. The Perdix 2 offers more than most dive computers. Change modes with care. Consulting an experienced PADI instructor will ensure that you safely program your watch for the best oxygen optimization. By The Shore SCUBA Instruction offers PADI instruction certification and Nitrox courses. If you purchase a Perdix 2, meet with our instructor Kevin Alexander to learn how to use it safely. We can also help you service other Shearwater equipment.*

    *Disclaimer- By the Shore SCUBA Instruction does not guarantee your safety while using a Perdix 2. SCUBA lessons and speaking with a PADI instructor are the best way to ensure your safety. By the Shore SCUBA Instruction cannot guarantee your safety on any dive since all dives come with some reasonable risk. 

    Sources-Shearwater PERDIX 2 – Toughest, most reliable full-size computer yet!

    Constant PO2: What Is It, and How Is It Different than Nitrox? – International Training – SDI | TDI | ERDI | PFI (tdisdi.com)

    ALUMINOSILICATE (auer-lighting.com)

    Shearwater Teric Dive Computer Review by a Marine Biologist — Nature Tripper – The Insider’s Guide to Wildlife Travel

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  • How to Find the Correct SCUBA Dive Watch

    How to Find the Correct SCUBA Dive Watch

    closeup watch for diver with orange dial

    Diving watches can range in price from $100,000 range to $25. This huge price difference leaves new PADI divers wondering how much they need to invest in a diving watch. Ratings on Amazon are not a determining factor since many people who purchase dive watches are not necessarily divers. For fashion purposes, highly rated, low-priced dive watches are worth buying. You cannot depend on ratings unless you read reviews from individuals who used the watch for SCUBA diving. Here is how to find the correct dive watch for SCUBA diving. 

    How to find the Correct Dive Watch

    Diver watches like Invicta watches under one hundred dollars claim to be pro diver watches. While Invicta watches have proven to withstand water pressures 200 meters below, wear and tear throughout time can lead to the watch malfunctioning. SCUBA diving watches should be ISO certified for open water deep sea dives. 

    • Entry level ISO certified watches start at about $200 and hike upward. For open water dives, watches, such as Citizen ProMaster, work for SCUBA divers and last on one charge for six months. This watch is low maintenance and offers basic features. For most water sports, 200-meter dive watches are very effective, but buffer watches with 300-meter dive depts allow for more strain over time. 
    • Even though most dives occur above 200 meters, dive watches can stay underwater for long periods. Most divers select watches marketed as exceeding the 300-meter mark. For dives deeper than 200 meters, you will need to invest a bit more into your ISO-certified dive watch. Most SCUBA dives never exceed 200 meters, but occasionally experienced divers will need to dive deeper than 200 meters. Technical divers need a dive watch that will sink below the 200-meter mark. Extended-time divers will find little complication if they select a dive watch that exceeds the 200-meter pressure limit. For a reliable dive watch exceeding the 200-meter mark, you will probably spend $1500 and exceed $5000, depending on the brand. Reliable dive watches that exceed 200 meters and are below the $5000 price range are Seiko Prosmax MarineMaster, Oris ProDiver, and Mido Oceanstar Diver.  
    • Deep-sea professional SCUBA divers need a watch that exceeds 500 meters. The most effective dive watches for deep sea SCUBA divers are 1000-meter pressure gauged watches. These watches easily exceed $2,600 and soar up to the $10,000 price range. Finding a reliable used deep sea watch is ideal for those looking for a reasonable price range, but have your PADI instructor check to see if it works. Repairing it may indicate you need to invest in a SCUBA dive watch of your own. It will be rare for you to find a reliable 1000-meter dive watch lower than $5000. Here are some reliable, reasonably-priced dive watches that meet the 1000-meter underwater pressure gauge: MWC Depthmaster, Pantor Seahorse, Zelos Abyss 3, Oceanx Sharkmaster, and Deep Blue Pro Sea Diver. 

    Before purchasing an expensive dive watch, conduct the following:

    •  Read reviews on the dive watch of your choice from experienced SCUBA divers.
    • Speak with your PADI team leader or instructor.
    • Investigate the internet for used watches that exceed your water resistance requirements.

    If you are taking a casual dive or a beginner course, consider an INVICTA in the lower price range of $200 or less. Asking experienced PADI divers will give you a more accurate picture of what you need in a dive watch. By the Shore, SCUBA Instruction is a leading dive instruction school headed by Kevin Alexander. Check out our merchandise on By the Shore SCUBA Instruction’s website for quality diving gear. If you don’t see something on our website, feel free to request different SCUBA gear on our website. If you have questions concerning dive watches, we would be happy to answer any specific concerns.

    Sources–

  • Surviving a Shark Attack While Cage Diving

    Surviving a Shark Attack While Cage Diving

    Great White shark while coming to you on deep blue ocean background

    Have you ever dared to cage dive with the Great White off the coast of South Africa or even in the Bahamas with the Caribbean Reef Shark? Most divers have never been on a cage dive with sharks, but the few who have looked death in the face. Sometimes the sharks are a little aggressive. Sometimes they seek blood. Do they seek to attack cage divers? There has never been a death by cage diving with sharks ever recorded, but this doesn’t mean sharks have never attacked cage divers. A conflict arose when a great white plowed into a cage with Mark Currie during a cage dive off the coast of South Africa in 2005. The boating company tried to launch a lawsuit against the British tourist when they said he damaged their equipment. In addition, they held a lawsuit against local media outlets for exaggerating the news story. You would think that Mark would have sued the company, but he described the incident as the most exciting experience of his life. Was Mark merely trying to receive fifteen minutes of fame, or was his near-death experience so exhilarating he had to share it with the world? We may never know. We do know that sharks have attacked cages before, and sharks have attacked divers in the open ocean. Those two facts together are enough to place any cage diver on edge.

    Precautions to Take when Cage Diving

    Most of us would not be thrilled if a shark plowed into our cage. So how do you survive or prevent a shark attack? Some cage diving companies consider safety, while others use chum to lure sharks in. There have even been ethical debates concerning cage diving. Read these precautions to take when cage diving and decide for yourself. 

    • Chart a cage diving company that does not use chum to lure sharks towards the boat. The best cage diving tour guides know where the sharks are. Using chum to draw the sharks in takes away their fear of humans. 
    • If the conditions are murky in the water, it’s best to steer clear of these areas. Avoid areas with chum in the water. (See above.)
    • There is strength in numbers. Take a dive buddy with you.
    • Ensure your lines and tubes are correctly tied and gathered to avoid a shark taking hold of you. 
    • Keep one hand on the cage as you climb down inside. This practice ensures you can quickly pull yourself inside if a shark approaches.
    • Use the controlled seated technique to get inside the cage. Your cage dive team should demonstrate it. You use both hands to pull yourself down into a seated position. 
    • If you want to take photos, climb into the cage first. Then have someone hand you your camera. Otherwise, you cannot hold onto the cage bars as you descend. 
    • Avoid a collision with your dive buddy. 
    • Never extend cameras or limbs outside the cage, which the shark considers bait.*
    • Remain calm at all times. Movement can disturb the shark. 
    • Take a diving knife in case you become stuck or trapped by your equipment.

    These tips are helpful to prevent a shark from noticing you, but what if they can’t resist plowing into your cage. If you find yourself close to the abyss of a shark’s jaws, you can still escape if you act fast and follow the tips below.

    • Keep your eyes on the sharks at all times. They are less likely to approach if they know you are watching them. 
    • If a shark pushes into a cage, sinking below or above them is your best chance of survival. Sharks cannot swim backward, which means they will be thrashing around with you inside the cage.
    • Most cages have an exit hatch in case of a shark attack. Ask the charter to show you how to operate the escape hatch before diving.
    • Once you exit the cage, be mindful of other sharks lurking nearby.
    • If you need to exit the cage from deep levels, open the cage and exit quickly with your dive buddy. Inflate your BCD and swim to the top with your dive body. 

    While there is no guarantee that you will survive a shark attack, your chances of survival are greater if you follow the tips above. The best way to prevent death by cage diving is to speak with your SCUBA instructor; they may be able to offer you a course in cage diving. If you have any questions about cage diving, contact By The Shore SCUBA Instruction.

    *This statement above is based on accuracy but is inserted for dramatization.

    By the Shore SCUBA Instruction is not certified to offer advice concerning marine animal behavior. The advice above is not guaranteed to stop injury or death from occurring. We write this article based on the experience of individuals, divers, cage dive charters, and others who work directly with sharks. You attempt cage diving at your own risk to life and limb. 

    Sources- 

    Shark Cage Diving Safety Tips – Shark Bookings

    Extreme Great White Shark Cage Attack | World’s Scariest Animal Attacks – YouTube

    Tourist who escaped shark attack faces legal action | The Independent | The Independent

    Shark experts set to sue media | News24

    Is it Ethical to Dive and Swim with Sharks? (worldnomads.com)

    Equipment For Scuba Diving: An Illustrated Guide For Beginners (diverbliss.com)

    The Best Way to Escape a Shark When You’re ’47 Meters Down’ (inverse.com)