EST. 1997 · SEYCHELLES

About MCSS

ABOUT US

Protecting Seychelles' Marine Heritage

29+

Years active

50+

Research Projects

500+

Volunteers hosted

500+

Wahle Shark identified

The Marine Conservation Society Seychelles, incorporating the Shark Research Institute Seychelles, is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of Seychelles’ marine and coastal ecosystems. Founded in 1997, it brings together scientists, conservation practitioners, community partners, and government agencies to improve the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems through management, scientific research, training, and educational programmes.

For three decades, the organisation has been at the forefront of marine conservation in the Western Indian Ocean, pioneering long-term monitoring programmes, habitat restoration initiatives, and community-based stewardship models. Its work spans coral reef rehabilitation, sea turtle conservation, elasmobranch research, marine protected area management, and environmental education. Through science-driven action and strong partnerships, it aims to ensure that Seychelles’ unique biodiversity thrives for generations to come.

Long-term nature conservation in Seychelles is supported through three thematic areas of intervention:

Marine Mega-Fauna

Research and conservation focused on species such as sea turtles, whale sharks, and other marine mega-fauna in Seychelles’ waters.

Marine & Coastal Ecosystems

Monitoring, restoration, and sustainable management of coral reefs, coastal wetlands, and other vital marine and coastal habitats.

Advocacy and Outreach

Engagement with communities, schools, and partners to build awareness, inspire stewardship, and strengthen conservation action.

Field teams collect high-quality ecological data that inform national policy, guide sustainable development, and support international conservation commitments. From tracking nesting sea turtles to restoring degraded coral reefs and monitoring coastal wetlands, this research provides the foundation for effective management and long-term resilience.

The organisation also plays a key role in community engagement and environmental education. It works closely with schools, youth groups, local residents, and tourism operators to build awareness, inspire stewardship, and empower people to take part in conservation. Its programmes emphasise hands-on learning, citizen science, and inclusive participation, ensuring that conservation benefits and responsibilities are shared across society.

A small full-time team is responsible for the implementation of long-term monitoring programmes and grant-funded projects, assisted by volunteers and students carrying out research projects. Collaboration is central to everything the organisation does. Partnerships with the Government of Seychelles, international NGOs, academic institutions, private sector organisations, and global conservation networks help deliver impactful, scalable solutions. These partnerships have enabled major national achievements, including the discovery of new fish species, the designation of Seasonal Protected Areas for sea turtles, and the development of whale shark eco-tourism based on long-term monitoring data.

As Seychelles faces growing pressures from climate change, coastal development, and biodiversity loss, the organisation remains committed to leading with integrity, scientific excellence, and a long-term vision.