Oceanographic Data Buoy System Installed in Coiba Island, Panama
Ocean Scientific International Ltd (OSIL) has recently manufactured and installed an oceanographic data buoy system in the Central American Pacific coast, specifically in the Parque Nacional Coiba in Panama. This buoy system, the first of its kind in the region, serves as a floating laboratory platform for the Estación Científica Coiba (COIBA AIP) to aid in the study and conservation of marine diversity and monitoring climate change.
Coiba Island, part of the marine corridor of the tropical eastern Pacific, is known for hosting large congregations of migratory marine species. The newly installed buoy will continuously monitor crucial parameters related to these migratory events, providing valuable data for research and conservation efforts.
Dr. Edgardo Díaz Ferguson, executive director of Coiba AIP, emphasized the significance of this initiative on an international level. He stated, “Panama is positioned as a regional leader in the study of marine sciences. This advance strengthens our local capacities and allows decision-making based on scientific evidence, essential to face the challenges of the decade of ocean sciences established by UNESCO (2021-2030).”
The 1.2m buoy system is equipped with two multiparameter sondes, one at the surface and another at a depth of 10m, capable of measuring up to 20 environmental parameters including temperature, salinity, sound velocity, dissolved oxygen, pH, Chlorophyll a, and a current profiler. These real-time data will enable analysis of ocean-atmosphere interactions, identification of spatial and temporal patterns, and monitoring of phenomena related to climate change and oceanographic processes.
OSIL collaborated with their partners Casco Antiguo in Panamá to design and implement the buoy system, ensuring the supply, installation, and ongoing support of the instruments throughout the deployment. This joint effort aims to enhance scientific research and conservation initiatives in the region, ultimately contributing to the global understanding of marine ecosystems.
The installation of the oceanographic data buoy system in Coiba Island marks a significant milestone in marine science research and conservation efforts in the Central American Pacific coast. With its advanced monitoring capabilities and strategic positioning, the buoy system will play a crucial role in studying marine diversity, monitoring climate change, and supporting decision-making based on scientific evidence.