Understand & Manage the Hidden Threats Affecting Coral Reefs

Marine conservation instructor teaching about Acanthaster spp. distribution during the Coral Predators course at Black Turtle Conservation in Koh Tao.
Conservation student conducting a field survey and recording data on a Crown-of-Thorns sea star (Acanthaster planci) during underwater training in Koh Tao.
Coral colony showing fresh tissue loss and bleaching caused by corallivorous predators, documented during coral health monitoring in Koh Tao.
Instructor presenting the Coral Predators theory session focused on identification and ecology of Acanthaster planci in Koh Tao.

Coral predators such as Crown-of-Thorns starfish and Drupella snails can devastate entire reef systems when their populations grow unchecked.

This 1-day specialty course trains you to identify, monitor, and assess coral predator populations, understand their ecological role, and take part in our ongoing research project tracking COTs outbreaks around Koh Tao.

Coral reefs face many challenges — warming waters, pollution, and storms — but one of the most destructive threats comes from coral predators.

Species like Crown-of-Thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) and Drupella snails feed on live corals, and when their populations spike, they can strip a reef bare.

Our Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course teaches you how to identify these species, assess population density, and detect early signs of outbreaks. You’ll also contribute directly to our island-wide COTs monitoring project, helping protect Koh Tao’s reefs through real research and conservation action.

What you’ll learn:

  • Identify coral predator species (Crown-of-Thorns starfish, Drupella snails, etc.)
  • Assess COTs population density and detect early outbreak indicators
  • Understand natural population controls vs. human-driven imbalances
  • Monitor predator impacts on coral cover and reef health
  • Contribute data to Koh Tao’s ongoing Crown-of-Thorns research program

This course is ideal if you want to:

  • Support reef protection by participating in real monitoring projects
  • Build skills essential for conservation research and management
  • Prepare for advanced specialties like Coral Disease, Advanced Taxonomy, or

Artificial Reefs

  • Take meaningful conservation action through scientific diving
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WHY THIS COURSE MATTERS

Coral predators naturally belong in the reef ecosystem — but when populations become unbalanced, they can cause catastrophic coral loss.

This course focuses on understanding when coral predators are part of a healthy ecosystem… and when they become a sign of ecological imbalance.

Through this course, you will:

  • Learn the ecological role of coral predators in reef ecosystems
  • Recognize signs of coral stress and predation
  • Detect early indicators of population spikes or outbreaks
  • Contribute real data to an ongoing Crown-of-Thorns population monitoring program
  • Strengthen your skills as a scientific diver and conservationist

This specialty builds on your Ecological Monitoring Program skills and supports more advanced conservation courses.

price

6,000 THB

DURATION

1 day

classes

1 class

DIVES

2 training dives

CERTIFICATION

Conservation Diver

LEVEL REQUIRED

Advanced Open Water* Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
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* Not a diver yet? No problem! You can start your journey by learning to dive with us.
Our PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water courses are the perfect first step before joining our marine conservation programs.

START WITH A DIVING COURSE

COURSE STRUCTURE

The Coral Predators course combines targeted theory with hands-on underwater population monitoring.

Day 1
Morning 09:00 Coral Predators Lecture
Lunch
Afternoon 12:00 Coral Predators Dive
15:00 Coral Predators Dive
Evening 17:00 Debrief

* Please note that the following schedule is indicative and may vary.
* Exact times for each session and dive will be confirmed before the course begins.

Morning — Theory Session: Coral Predators & Outbreak Ecology

You’ll start the day with a detailed presentation covering:

  • Biology and ecology of Crown-of-Thorns starfish, Drupella snails and other coral predators
  • Natural vs. outbreak population levels
  • Predation signs and coral damage patterns
  • Population assessment & monitoring techniques
  • Introduction to Koh Tao’s COTs Research & Monitoring Project
  • Safety procedures and ethical handling protocols

You’ll learn to identify predators both visually and through predation scars, equipping you with the skills to detect early outbreak indicators.

Afternoon — 2 Training Dives

Dive 1: Coral Predator Identification & Survey Dive

You’ll conduct a guided predator search along the reef, practicing identification, counting, and damage assessment techniques.

Your instructor will help you interpret feeding scars and evaluate whether the site shows early signs of imbalance.

Dive 2: Monitoring & Management Data Collection Dive

You’ll repeat the survey method independently, collecting data for the Crown-of-Thorns monitoring project currently underway in Koh Tao.

Your survey results become part of the long-term database tracking predator populations and coral recovery.

After the dives, you’ll debrief your observations, review photos, and compare your data with seasonal trends.

By the end of the day, you’ll be able to:
  • Identify coral predators with confidence
  • Assess reef areas for early signs of imbalance or outbreaks
  • Contribute to Koh Tao’s research and conservation strategies
  • Apply predator monitoring skills to real scientific projects around the world
Contact us
Price:
6,000 ฿
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Includes:
  • Conservation Diver E-Learning
  • 1 class
  • 2 guided conservation dives
  • Conservation Diver Certification
  • Diving equipment & dive computer
  • Dive insurance
  • Refreshments & fruit on the boat
Prerequisites:
  • Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
  • Completion of the Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)

Testimonials

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Chee yen Wong
1 days ago
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+1
This dive shop is highly recommended! The diving guide Isbella is very professional, enthusiastic and patient in explaining everything.
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matthias p
1 days ago
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Ich war jetzt bereits zum wiederholten Male tauchen bei Black Turtle Dive und bin begeistert. Der Service, die Hilfsbereitschaft & Professionalität sind überragend! Vor allem meine Fun Dives mit den Dive Master Nils und Hailey waren perfekt. Danke für diese tolle Erfahrung!!
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Amy Burnett
2 days ago
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If you’re looking to complete your PADI open water course, I could not recommend Black Turtle Dive more. We completed the 3 day course. Learnt so much about the ocean and the safety behind diving, that we can take forward to any future dives. Our instructors Jaa and Arisa were so encouraging and patient when it came to learning new skills. As well as the incredible dive locations they take you too.
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Zoe Clark
2 days ago
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If I could give more than 5 stars I would. The staff were so friendly and welcoming as soon as we stepped through the door. Our instructors were more than perfect Jaa and arisa. Could not recommend them more. Hope to dive with them again sometime. Highly recommend
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Alya F
3 days ago
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Ich durfte meinen Open Water Diver hier absolvieren und war wirklich sehr zufrieden. Meine Tauchlehrerin war Nadine, sie ist wirklich mega super! Ich habe mich in der Ausbildung immer sehr wohl und verstanden gefühlt. Sie hat mich immer mit viel Geduld und Passion in meinem Lernprozess begleitet, VIELEN DANK Nadine! Ich schätze generell bei Black Turtle die Professionalität und Hilfsbereitschaft sehr! Man merkt das sie viel Leidenschaft im Tauchen leben (das ganze Team) und ihnen Sicherheit beim Tauchen sehr wichtig ist. Ich habe mich vom Empfang bis zur letzen Ausbildungseinheit gut betreut und beraten gefühlt. Komme gerne wieder 🤟🏼
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Federico Bertorello
4 days ago
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Hice el curso de open water, la atención de las chicas 10! Mi instructora Rhi excelente!
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Toby
4 days ago
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If your looking for low cost, high quality dive school to do your scuba open waters and/or more through, black turtle is the place to go. Ask around for an instructor named Naim and a soon-to-be instructor named Annie. They were great company and even better instructors. Strongly recommend.
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Miriam schlenker
4 days ago
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Michael Clarke
4 days ago
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Chae was awesome. Super patient and helpful with the refresher course we did together. I had some serious trouble equalising and he kept me calm, was really understanding, and managed to get me down for two great experiences. Totally recommend him and the whole staff.
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Mats Lory
5 days ago
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Amazing dive center, super professional and chill people!
Diver collecting data on coral predators during a Coral Predators monitoring dive with Black Turtle Conservation in Koh Tao.

Keep Learning

Continue your conservation journey with complementary specialty courses:

Coral Disease & Compromised Health – Recognize disease patterns & stress indicators
Coral Restoration – Learn methods to support damaged reefs
Artificial Reefs – Study how engineered structures support biodiversity
Advanced Coral Taxonomy – Identify rare and complex coral genera
Advanced EMP – Master advanced survey methodology

Each course builds on your Coral Predators training, strengthening your ability to support real research and conservation projects.

ECOLOGICAL MONITORING PROGRAM

Prerequisites: AOW

The Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP) introduces reef survey methods and scientific diving techniques. You’ll learn to assess fish, invertebrates, substrate, and coral health, and report your findings to an international database.

Coral Taxonomy & Identification

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP

Learn to identify coral species based on skeletal and anatomical characteristics, both on land and underwater.

This course builds essential skills for research, restoration, and monitoring projects.

NUDIBRANCH & SEA SLUG ECOLOGY

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP

Dive into the world of nudibranchs and sea slugs, key indicators of reef biodiversity and water quality. You’ll explore their taxonomy and ecology while participating in an ongoing research project at Black Turtle Conservation.

CORAL RESTORATION THEORY & TECHNIQUES

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP

Explore the science behind coral restoration.

You'll learn about restoration strategies, site selection, coral health assessment, and attachment methods.

ARTIFICIAL REEF THEORY & TECHNIQUES

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP + Coral Restoration

Artificial reefs help restore damaged habitats and provide alternative dive sites. You’ll explore the science behind their design and even create your own reef project as a classroom exercise.

CORAL PREDATORS: POPULATION MANAGEMENT & MONITORING

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP

Identify and monitor coral predators such as crown-of-thorns starfish and Drupella snails, and understand their impact on reef health.

This course teaches practical techniques for population control and long-term reef protection.

ADVANCED CORAL TAXONOMY

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP + Coral Taxonomy

Expand your coral identification skills by learning to recognize more challenging and rare genera.

This course deepens your knowledge of skeletal and anatomical traits, strengthening your abilities for advanced research and monitoring.

CORAL DISEASES & COMPROMISED HEALTH

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP + Coral Taxonomy

Discover how to identify and record common coral diseases and signs of stress in reef ecosystems.

This course equips you with the skills to assess reef health and contribute valuable data to monitoring efforts.

ADVANCED EMP

Prerequisites: AOW + EMP + Coral Taxonomy + Coral Disease + 3 Monitoring Courses

Gain experience using additional monitoring techniques, including quadrants, transects, and advanced survey methods. This course enhances your ability to collect accurate data and analyze long-term changes in reef ecosystems.

SEA TURTLE ECOLOGY & MONITORING

Learn about the ecology, behavior and threats facing sea turtles, all of which are endangered. Develop skills in turtle ID and data collection, allowing you to contribute to real conservation initiatives by recording sightings to support ongoing monitoring efforts in Koh Tao and internationally.

SHARK ECOLOGY & POPULATION STUDIES

Sharks play a crucial role as apex predators, yet many species are now critically endangered. Explore their evolution, anatomy, and ecological role. Learn population monitoring techniques and how to contribute to local and global shark databases to aid conservation efforts.

CORAL WATCH SPECIALITY

Learn how to assess coral health and contribute to a global monitoring effort using a powerful method developed by CoralWatch and supported by PADI AWARE. Gain insight into coral biology, bleaching, and climate change, while participating in real reef surveys.

PLASTIC POLLUTION: MONITORING & ASSESSMENT

Learn about the scale and impact of plastic pollution in the ocean. Gain hands-on experience monitoring microplastics and help protect reef ecosystems by removing macroplastics.

3 DAY PADI OPEN WATER DIVER

PADI ADVANCED OPEN WATER DIVER

PADI RESCUE DIVER + EMERGENCY FIRST RESPONSE (EFR)

Contact us

Grow Your Skills with Our Conservation Programs

All our marine conservation programs begin with the Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP), providing a solid foundation in scientific diving and hands-on conservation.

From there, you can continue learning through our carefully designed programs, which follow a progression we’ve developed to maximize learning and practical experience. Each course builds on the last, helping you
develop your skills step by step while contributing to meaningful conservation projects.

Whether your goal is to specialize in coral restoration, turtle research, or broader reef monitoring, our programs guide you along a clear path, so you can grow as a marine conservationist while enjoying every step of the journey.

CONSERVATION SPECIALIST

  • EMP
  • Coral Taxonomy
  • Sea turtles
  • BTD Sea slugs

REEF SPECIALIST

  • Coral Restoration
  • Artificial Reefs
  • Coral Taxonomy III
  • BTC Marine Pollution

MASTER CONSERVATIONIST

  • Giant Clams
  • BTD Cleaning Stations
  • BTD Coral Predators
  • Sharks

SCIENTIFIC DIVER

  • Image J
  • Coral Disease
  • Advanced EMP

Learning Pathway

← Scroll horizontally to see full pathway →

courses

ANY LEVEL

Open to Divers & Non-Divers
  • Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring
  • Coral Watch Speciality
  • Shark Ecology & Population Studies
  • Plastic Pollution: Monitoring & Assessment

ADVANCED DIVERS

AOW Required
Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
  • Coral Taxonomy & Identification
    • Advanced Coral Taxonomy
    • Coral Disease Monitoring
  • Nudibranch & Sea Slug Ecology
  • Coral Restoration Theory & Techniques
    • Artificial Reefs Theory
  • Coral Predators Monitoring & Mgmt
Advanced
EMP

programs

ANY LEVEL

Open to Divers & Non-Divers
3 days

CITIZEN SCIENCE

  • Coral Watch Speciality
  • Citizen Science Initiatives
  • Marine Ecology

This infographic shows the progression of the different marine conservation courses and programs we offer at Black Turtle Conservation.

Developed in collaboration with Conservation Diver, PADI AWARE, and our own in-house certifications, these courses and programs provide hands-on opportunities to learn, dive, and actively contribute to real conservation and research efforts.

ADVANCED DIVERS

AOW Required
1 week

CORE CONSERVATIONIST

  • EMP
  • Coral Taxonomy I
2 weeks

CONSERVATION SPECIALIST

  • EMP
  • Coral Taxonomy I & II
  • Sea Turtles
  • BTD Sea Slugs
+ 2 weeks

REEF SPECIALIST

  • Coral Restoration
  • Artificial Reefs
  • Coral Taxonomy III
  • BTD Marine Pollution
+ 2 weeks

MASTER CONSERVATIONIST

  • Giant Clams
  • BTD Cleaning Stations
  • BTD Coral Predators
  • Sharks
+ 2 weeks

SCIENTIFIC DIVER

  • Image J
  • Coral Disease
  • Advanced EMP

pro

PROFESSIONAL LEVEL

Dive Master Required

RESEARCH
ASSISTANT

INSTRUCTOR
DEVELOPMENT
COURSE (IDC)

EMP
INSTRUCTOR

EMP

SPECIALITY
INSTRUCTOR

EMP + ≥5 courses

MASTER
INSTRUCTOR

EMP + ≥10 courses

INSTRUCTOR
TRAINER

← Scroll horizontally to see full pathway →
Contact us

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course in Koh Tao?

The Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course is a 1-day marine conservation training focused on identifying, monitoring, and assessing coral predators such as Crown-of-Thorns starfish (COTs) and Drupella snails. Through a class and two scientific dives, you’ll learn how these predators affect coral reefs and how to collect real data to support conservation projects in Koh Tao.

Why is monitoring coral predators important for coral reef conservation in Koh Tao?

Monitoring coral predators is essential because species like Crown-of-Thorns starfish can cause severe coral loss when populations spike. This course teaches you how to detect early signs of outbreaks, assess reef damage, and contribute to ongoing research that helps protect Koh Tao’s coral reefs.

Do I need to be a certified diver to join the Coral Predators course?

Yes. To join the Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course in Koh Tao, you must be at least an Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent) and have completed the Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP). These prerequisites ensure you have the buoyancy skills and ecological foundation needed for scientific predator surveys.

What will I learn during the Coral Predators course on Koh Tao?

You’ll learn to identify coral predators such as Crown-of-Thorns starfish and Drupella snails, assess predation scars, evaluate population levels, detect early outbreak indicators, and conduct underwater surveys used in real marine research projects.

You’ll also understand how predator imbalances affect coral reef ecosystems in Thailand

Will I participate in real conservation research during the Coral Predators course?

Yes. All students contribute data to Koh Tao’s ongoing Crown-of-Thorns Monitoring Project, a long-term research initiative tracking COTs populations across the island. Your observations and data collection help identify outbreak risks and support reef management strategies.

How long is the Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course and what is included?

The course takes 1 day and includes: 1 classroom session, 2 predator survey dives, a Conservation Diver certification, Diving equipment & computer, E-learning materials, Insurance and boat snacks. Price: 6,000 THB

Where does the Coral Predators course take place in Koh Tao?

We select the dive sites for the Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management course based on current monitoring zones and predator activity. Each site is chosen according to the number of coral predators observed — such as Crown of Thorns starfish or Drupella snails — and its ecological importance for reef health assessments.

This approach ensures students work where real data collection is needed, contributing directly to our ongoing coral predator monitoring and outbreak prevention projects around Koh Tao.

Can I combine the Coral Predators course with other marine conservation training?

Absolutely. Many students pair Coral Predators with courses like Coral Taxonomy, Coral Disease, Coral Restoration, or Advanced EMP. If you’re completing the Master Conservationist program, Coral Predators is already included as part of the curriculum.

What certification do I receive after completing the Coral Predators course?

You will receive an official Conservation Diver Coral Predators: Monitoring & Management Certification, recognized at conservation centers across Thailand and internationally. This certification qualifies you to participate in predator surveys and monitoring projects worldwide.

Why take the Coral Predators course with Black Turtle Conservation in Koh Tao?

At Black Turtle Conservation, you don’t just learn about coral predators — you become part of the real effort to protect Koh Tao’s reefs.

Our team of marine biologists and Conservation Diver Instructor Trainers combines scientific expertise with years of hands-on field experience to deliver one of the most comprehensive coral predator monitoring courses in Thailand.

You’ll train directly on reefs currently under observation, collect real data for ongoing research, and learn practical techniques used to prevent outbreaks of Crown of Thorns starfish and other coral predators.

This isn’t just a course — it’s your chance to make a measurable impact on reef conservation while learning from the professionals leading the work.

Still have questions?

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