Raja Ampat is known as the world’s marine biodiversity epicenter. It’s a stunning area in Indonesia’s archipelago with the greatest marine biodiversity in the Coral Triangle. Scientists have found over 550 coral species, 700 mollusc species, and more than 1,800 fish species here. You can also see 17 species of marine mammals, 3 types of manta rays, and numerous shark species. It’s a must-do diving location, and I have been lucky enough to experience it many times. The secret behind this richness is a large-scale phenomenon. The Indonesian Throughflow is a consistent water flow from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean. This flow boosts biodiversity in two key ways. The Indonesian Throughflow creates nutrient-rich upwellings. It raises deep-sea nutrients like nitrates and phosphorus, which are essential for coral growth and the entire food chain. These nutrients support a vibrant and sustainable reef ecosystem. The Throughflow also acts as a natural delivery system. It spreads eggs and larvae across the region, which helps to seed and replenish reefs far and wide. This process is crucial for maintaining the marine richness that makes Raja Ampat so unique. The region also has over 1,500 smaller islands, creating a huge variety of habitats, from exposed seamounts to sheltered bays. This range of habitats is Raja Ampat’s competitive advantage.
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