Every inch of Timor-Leste’s coral reefs is packed to the brim with unimaginable forms of life. Bustling highways of fish crisscross overhead while anemones, starfish, and the delicate structures of nearly 400 reef-building coral species cover the seafloor. After the nation won its independence in 2002, local officials reinstated the traditional resource management practice known as tara bandu to address the blatant exploitation of its waters and forests. Under the customary law, marine and land habitats are carefully monitored with some areas designated as no-take zones and others responsibly fished or harvested to the benefit of locals. As a result, the country’s seascapes are finally regaining balance and thriving under the care of coastal communities living closely in tune with marine wildlife. It was incredible to experience one of the healthiest coral reef systems left on earth and witness firsthand our ocean’s extraordinary resilience when given the chance to recover. @SeaLegacy @Mitty @fizzyfarfaraway Andy_Mann @samkretch @kyle.roepke @ryantidman #timorleste #easttimor #coralreef #resilience