DIVE LOG AUSTRALASIA ISSUE 413 AUGUST 25

W hat makes Triton Bay in West Papua so special? THOMAS HAIDER analyses the peculiar set of circumstances that make the area both a joy and a challenge for underwater photographers. Triton Bay Divers Species overload in wonderland text and photos by Thomas Haider

As an underwater photographer, natural scientist and naturalist my biggest challenge is always to capture the essence of the area into images. Therefore, the first step is to find out what makes an area so special, outstanding, distinct and unique. Regarding Triton Bay area, the most impressive dive sites are located around karstic rocks in the Iris Strait, a passage between Aiduma Island and the main land of West Papua with high rising mountains. In this funnel shaped passage around these karstic rocks divers are always exposed to strong currents but on the other hand these sites are often quite sheltered from wind and waves. During these conditions the calm sea surface is additionally flattened by the strong currents. But this quiet surface impressions are rather misleading because under the surface tremendous action takes place! The protected position and the strong currents enable the growth of delicate coral reefs just under the ocean surface. The normally sparse populated surf zones under these

karstic rocks are full of life. Almost any little place is covered with marine live in all colours and shapes, competing for nutrients, space and light. Gigantic schools of anchovies and fusiliers are streaming over extensive gardens of rainbow-coloured soft corals and black coral bushes with white polyps. These clouds of fish are under permanent pressure of the hunting Jacks and constantly shifting around, blocking the ambient light. Obviously, this frenetic action is quite infectious. Groupers, normally shy in the presence of divers, are moving all around in midwater and lurking on top of the black coral bushes waiting to catch some fish, when the action is accelerating. Due to the proximity to the mainland the seawater is also influenced by the nutrient rich river water coming from the mountains. This leads to a reduced visibility and also to a shift from blueish to greenish coloured sea water with all

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Dive Log Australasia #413 AUGUST’25

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