Scuba diving investigations and training

Abstract

During the past 35 years underwater technology, engineering, bio-medicine, saturation diving and automation had developed tremendously to enable man to forge to very great depths in to the oceans and stay there for extensive periods. It was possible to experience a three dimensional space, diving with selfcontained underwater breathing apparatus(SCUBA). The CMFRI acquired modern equipments to promote this discipline of scientific work enabled the scientists to facilitated collection of useful data on the pearl oysters and chank, in the study of the ecological features of the sea bed of Tuticorin and estimation of the density of chank and oyster population in different localities investigated. One such assignment was the survey of Andamans and Nicobar Islands for assessing potentialities of these areas for mariculture purposes. Another contribution by the diving scientists team was the detailed survey of 20 islands in the Gulf of Mannar during 1978-80 and exploration of the fringing coral reefs and adjacent areas . In order to promote 'SCUBA' diving for scientific and exploratory purposes and for exploitation of marine resources the Institute conducts training programmes for scientists and technical personnel and this consists of theory classes in Snorkeling, Diving equipment, Diving ,Aqua lung, Deep dive, Skin diver and marine life, Model gadgets in diving and practical classes.