Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

13th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Colorful Fijian Reef

I was snorkeling off of Naviti Island in Fiji during a study abroad program when I took this picture. We were doing a coral reef health checks measuring the overall health of the corals and the ocean life in the reef. By collecting data to help us better preserve the reef in the future, we were helping the environment as we traveled. This kind of work can help sustain the environment for future travelers, and more education can help assure that tourists are not damaging the reefs.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2015
Date Uploaded: 07.2015
Photo Location: Naviti Island, Fiji
Camera: HERO4 Silver
Copyright: © Malone Slappey