Aquatic Ecosystem Services was contracted by Diamond Coast Abalone (DCA) to undertake the baseline environmental survey for their abalone ranching pilot project situated on the Northern Cape Coast, South Africa. The assessment required a dive survey of sub-tidal nearshore habitats to assess macro-benthic composition and abundance of key indicator species.

Subsequently AES have been contracted to undertake the bi-annual monitoring programme as required by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). These biannual monitoring trips involve assessing transects in selected seeding sites. The dive assessments are undertaken using SCUBA gear and in compliance with South African diving regulations.