The Science Projects

The science projects included surveys and/or studies of Seram’s soils, ferns, orchids, butterflies, moths, herbivorous insects, general insects, reptiles, birds, bats, general mammals and use of bio-resources by the Island’s indigenous inhabitants. There was also an ecological study of local species of ‘Nautilus’, a marine creature related to octopus, squid and cuttlefish.

The collective results of the Earth, biological, zoological, marine and human research projects were designed to contribute to:

  1. A study of the altitudinal zonation of plant and animal life in Manusela National Park (MNP) from sea level to the summit of Mt Binaia.
  2. A greater understanding of the biological and geological history of the south-east Asian Region.
  3. MNP management activity development by the Forest Service of the Indonesian Government.

Read more about the science projects …

British entomologist Caroline with Japanese venturer Miwa identifying butterflies at base camp A.
Entomologist Jeremy Holloway collects tiny insects with a 'pooter'.
Lorna checks a box trap for small mammals.
A fruit bat in a mist net.
Botanist George Ardent pressing plant specimens at Base Camp C.
Caroline led the butterfly project.
Marguerite and Benny studied the bats.
The birdos.
The orchid team.
The reptile guys with a python. Ron Lilley on the right.
Lorna and Marguerite with a fruit bat.
Benny photographs a fruit bat being fed.