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Noo Raajje Releases 2020 Maldives Coral Reef Assessment Report

Noo Raajje Releases 2020 Maldives Coral Reef Assessment Report
The Noo Raajje Program today released the assessment report from the survey of the coral reefs and fish populations across the Maldives.

The Noo Raajje Program today released the assessment report from the 2020 Expedition, which surveyed the coral reefs and fish populations across almost all the Maldivian islands. The most encouraging finding showed that coral reefs may be recovering after the 2016 bleaching event, caused by a prolonged spike in ocean temperatures during the summer season.

The Noo Raajje scientists write that the apparent recovery in the amount of coral may be due in part to the high levels of recruitment recorded at the sites surveyed (an average of over 14 individual new corals, or ‘recruits’, per square meter), and was likely helped by high numbers of herbivore fish found.

The assessment is based on two expeditions of the northern and central atolls, carried out in January and February 2020 by scientists from the Waitt Institute, Scripps Institute of Oceanography, University of Western Australia, Maldives Marine Research Institute, and their partners from Small Island Research Group. The survey efforts were further supported by the Environmental Protection Agency, Oceano Azul Foundation, IUCN Maldives, Maldives Coral Institute, Centre de Recherches Insulaires et Observatoire de l’Environnement, Vava’u Environmental Protection Association, University of California Santa Barbara, NEKTON, and University of Hawai’i. The scientists surveyed 127 reef sites across 15 atolls.

Sites were classified as inhabited, resort, or uninhabited, and were surveyed across multiple indicators that can help scientists understand the overall health of a reef and its many important species. The indicators surveyed were;

  • reef fish, reef shark, and large-bodied fish abundance, diversity, and biomass;
  • species composition of bottom (benthic) communities;
  • the abundance of juvenile corals
  • reef rugosity (shape and area of the reef that provides habitat and resilience);
  • the abundance and diversity of benthic macroinvertebrates (clams, sea cucumbers, and others);
  • water quality

The results of the assessment suggest that overall, Maldivian reefs have the capacity to recover following warming events, but local stressors may impact reef health at the local scale.

Although the results of the study are a cause for optimism, the scientists point out that prior to the 2016 bleaching, Maldives coral coverage was some 40%, suggesting that the recovery of the country’s coral reefs has a long way to go.

In March of 2021, the Noo Raajje Program completed a survey of the southern Maldives to finish the archipelago-wide assessment. A separate report will be compiled based on that expedition’s results.

Noo Raajje is a program led by the Government of the Maldives, including the President’s Office and the Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture, and in partnership with government agencies including the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, the Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Tourism, the Environment Protection Agency, Local Government Authority, the Maldives Marine Research Institute, and others.

International support comes from the Blue Prosperity Coalition, including the Waitt Institute, the Waitt Foundation, National Geographic Pristine Seas, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, SeaSketch, Environmental Markets Solutions Lab at UC Santa Barbara, UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, and others.

Feature image by Noo Raajje

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, located in the Maldives, proudly announces its nominations for three prestigious honors at the 2025 World Travel Awards. Specifically, the resort has earned recognition in the categories of Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2025, Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025, and Maldives’ Leading Family Resort 2025. These nominations celebrate Lily Beach for its unwavering commitment to exceptional service, top-tier luxury, and family-friendly offerings, making it one of the top destinations in the Maldives.

The Platinum Plan: A Premier All-Inclusive Experience

One of the resort’s most notable features is its renowned Platinum Plan, which stands as one of the most comprehensive all-inclusive packages in the region. This plan offers a variety of premium dining options, top-shelf beverages, exciting excursions, and a wide range of water activities. As a result, guests can enjoy a carefree and indulgent experience, with the Platinum Plan providing both variety and value. Consequently, it sets a benchmark for luxury all-inclusive offerings in the Maldives.

Family-Friendly Accommodations and Activities

For families, Lily Beach provides the ideal getaway, offering a perfect balance of togetherness and privacy. The resort features spacious multi-bedroom accommodations, such as the Beach Residence and Beach Family Villa, which allow families to stay close while still enjoying personal space. Furthermore, the Turtles Kids’ Club provides a fun-filled environment with supervised activities, while adults can unwind in adults-only spaces, such as AQVA, the overwater bar and restaurant. In addition to this, the resort offers a gym and tennis court, giving guests plenty of opportunities to stay active and enjoy family-friendly recreation.

Exquisite Dining with a View

Dining at Lily Beach is also an experience in itself. Guests can indulge in everything from international buffet selections at Lily Maa to Asian fusion cuisine at the overwater Tamarind restaurant. Not only do the diverse dining options cater to a wide range of tastes, but the spectacular ocean views and the warm hospitality of the Maldivian staff also contribute to an unforgettable culinary journey.

Wellness and Relaxation at Tamara Spa

Moreover, for those seeking rest and rejuvenation, the Tamara Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary with a variety of healing treatments. Set over the water, the spa provides an ideal setting for guests to unwind with restorative massages. Additionally, Lily Beach’s Wellness Week with Ali Young, taking place this November, offers a unique opportunity for guests to engage in a transformative wellness retreat. This seven-day program blends ancient sound healing techniques with the Maldives’ tranquil environment, helping guests rejuvenate both body and mind.

A Commitment to Excellence and Luxury

These nominations reflect Lily Beach’s consistent dedication to excellence, further cementing its reputation as a premier destination for families, couples, and luxury travelers. Whether it’s indulgence, adventure, or relaxation, the resort offers something for everyone, and these nominations only highlight its exceptional offerings.

Voting for the 2025 World Travel Awards is now open, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa invites its guests and supporters to cast their votes and help secure these well-deserved accolades. Click here to vote

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