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1. Why Take This Speciality Course?
Take a fresh look at the ultimate guardians of the ocean. Sharks are often feared and misunderstood, yet they are essential to the health and balance of coral reefs. The SSI Shark Ecology specialty dispels common myths and reveals the fascinating biology, senses, and behaviors of these magnificent predators. By understanding how they hunt, communicate, and navigate, you will replace fear with respect and turn every shark encounter into an unforgettable highlight of your dives.
- Species Identification: Learn to recognize key shark species, including Leopard sharks, Blacktip reef sharks, and Whitetip reef sharks found in Koh Lanta.
- Sensory Adaptations: Discover their extraordinary superpowers, from detecting electrical fields to sensing movement from hundreds of meters away.
- Ecological Importance: Understand why coral reefs depend on apex predators to maintain species balance and healthy fish populations.
- Open to Everyone: Academic course accessible to scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers.
2. Course Curriculum (1 day in ocean or theory only)
The course combines interactive online learning on the MySSI app and a topic presentation at the center with your instructor (with an optional practical application during your ocean dives).
🔹 Key Topics Covered:
- Biology & Evolution: Anatomy, reproduction, and the evolutionary history of sharks over 400 million years.
- Local Species of Koh Lanta: Focus on Leopard sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum) at Koh Bida and Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus).
- Behavior & Interactions: How to read shark body language and practice responsible, safe, and respectful diving/snorkeling habits.
3. Prerequisites
No diving prerequisites required (also accessible to non-divers, freedivers, and snorkelers).
- Minimum Age: 10 years old for divers and 6 years old for non-divers.
4. Your International Certification
At the end of the course, you will earn your SSI Shark Ecology Specialty Certification.
- Recognized worldwide.
- Counts toward your Master Scuba Diver rating and can count as one of the 5 adventure dives for your SSI Advanced Open Water Diver certification (when combined with ocean dives).
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to scuba dive or snorkel for this specialty?
No, it is not mandatory! The Shark Ecology specialty can be completed entirely as a 100% dry course.
If you are a non-diver or prefer to stay out of the water, you can earn your certification by completing the interactive classroom or online sessions.
However, if you are a diver or snorkeler, adding in-water sessions is highly recommended: it’s the perfect opportunity to apply your new knowledge on the reef and practice identifying sharks in their natural habitat!
Will we get to dive or snorkel with sharks during this course?
While wild animal sightings are never guaranteed, sites around Koh Lanta—such as Koh Bida and Hin Bida—are renowned for regular encounters with Leopard sharks and Blacktip reef sharks.
Is it dangerous to dive or snorkel with sharks?
Not at all! Sharks are naturally cautious creatures. This specialty teaches you how to interact calmly and respectfully, ensuring a safe experience for both you and the sharks.
