The Research Division of the California Academy of Sciences conducted an ambitious expedition to the Philippines in May and June of 2011. The goals of the expedition were the exploration, discovery, and conservation of biodiversity in this unique region of the world.
Academy and Filipino scientists took part in three primary components of the expedition: shallow-water (predominantly coral reefs), deep-sea exploration by research vessel (benthic habitats to 2000 meters in depth), and terrestrial (montane forests and lakes). Fieldwork took place in and around three islands of the northern Philippines: Luzon, Mindoro, and Lubang.
In addition, educational outreach, a media presence, and a widely attended concluding seminar at the University of the Philippines in Manila, were important and highly successful aspects of the seven week field project.
