The Advance Ecology (MES 203) class of St. Paul Dumaguete School of Graduate Studies, as part of the Master of Environmental Science Program, recently conducted a series of field activities aimed at enhancing their understanding of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Led by their course instructor, Mrs. Irish Udtohan, five graduate students participated in the Fish Visual Census simulation activity and Riparian Field Survey on March 9, 2024.

The Fish Visual Census simulation activity was facilitated by Mr. Denzyl Divinagracia, a marine biology graduate student from Silliman University with extensive experience in fish studies. This exercise allowed students to practically apply concepts of biomass and biodiversity through a simulated survey of reef fishes. Fish Visual Census is a crucial method used by marine biologists to estimate fish population, variety, biomass, and identification in coral reef areas.

Following the simulation activity, the class proceeded to Calo, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, for their Riparian field survey. This field exercise provided students with an opportunity to apply terrestrial field methods in studying river ecosystems. The focus of the activity was on describing riparian vegetation cover and soil quality, providing valuable insights into the health of the river ecosystem.

The results of the simulation and field survey will contribute to the class's output requirements for the course. Overall, the activities proved to be a valuable learning experience for the students, allowing them to gain practical knowledge and insights into ecosystem dynamics.