Area of Study: Reefs

Camila Calderón Quirgas collaborated with the Ilhas Do Río project, focusing on protecting juvenile green turtles in Rio de Janeiro’s Cagarras Islands. Located just off the coast of the bustling metropolis, these islands form a vital marine protected area recognized as a “Hope Spot” by Mission Blue. The proximity to Rio de Janeiro highlights the urgent need to safeguard these vulnerable ecosystems from the pressures of urbanization. One of the key challenges addressed is the invasive coral species threatening marine life, which requires specialized expeditions to remove. Beyond conservation, the Ilhas Do Río initiative emphasizes education and community engagement. The project includes a children’s television series, exhibitions, and educational materials designed to raise awareness about marine conservation. Through these efforts, Ilhas Do Río seeks to strengthen the relationship between Rio’s residents and their coastal environment, promoting a deeper understanding of the need to protect the marine biodiversity in the region. Camila’s passion for marine conservation is reflected not only in her academic background but also in her dedication to science communication. As a veterinarian and oceanography master’s candidate, she has worked extensively with marine bioacoustics and whale research. A National Geographic Explorer, Camila is co-founder of the Centro de Estudios de Mastozoología Marina in Chile. Her work also extends to children’s publishing, where she has authored books about marine science to inspire young minds.