Fuvahmulah Shark Lab

Fuvahmulah Shark Lab is a marine research, conservation, and education initiative run by Nature Friends of Maldives, a nonprofit organisation. Based in Fuvahmulah, the lab works to preserve the Maldives’ natural environment by connecting ocean science with local communities and supporting a better understanding of marine life. Its research includes studying resident tiger sharks, documenting their identities in a public shark catalogue, and investigating their reproductive biology through ultrasound studies. The team also contributes to coral reef and fish biodiversity surveys to establish baseline data for Fuvahmulah’s marine ecosystems.

The lab offers internships that give participants hands-on experience in marine research and conservation, working alongside its team on field projects. Its educational programs bring shark and marine science into schools through interactive sessions, real samples, and virtual reality experiences. Visitors can also take an SSI Tiger Shark speciality course to learn about tiger shark behaviour and explore the species with researchers; participants may earn the opportunity to name an individual shark.