Bunaken

Bunaken refers to an island and a national park located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. It lies off the coast of Manado, about eight to ten kilometers north of the city. The term Bunaken National Park covers the waters around Bunaken Island and several neighboring islands, including Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage, and Naen. The park protects a range of marine habitats, from shallow reefs to deep walls, and encompasses a substantial area of sea.

The marine environment of Bunaken is notable for its biodiversity and reef complexity. The area features extensive coral reef systems and steep submarine walls that support a diverse assemblage of reef fishes, invertebrates, and other marine life. The combination of varied habitats and strong currents makes the park a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, particularly for wall diving and encounters with large schools of fish and macro species.

History and governance: Bunaken National Park was established in 1991 to conserve marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. It is administered by the Indonesian government in partnership with local communities, researchers, and non-governmental organizations. The park operates under management plans that include zoning, visitor regulations, and efforts to regulate fishing and souvenir operations.

Tourism and conservation: Tourism is a major activity, drawing divers and snorkelers to Bunaken and the surrounding islands. While tourism supports local economies, it also poses environmental pressures. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, sustainable tourism practices, community engagement, and scientific monitoring to balance conservation with livelihoods.