Science

#BIOTscience

The rich biodiversity and near-pristine environment of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) makes it a unique location for scientific study. Scientific expeditions from a wide range of disciplines and operating in both the terrestrial and marine environments, have visited the Territory. These expeditions have contributed towards the development of BIOT as an “observatory for undisturbed ecosystems”.

Applications for scientific expeditions are welcome. All applicants wishing to visit the Territory for scientific purposes require a permit before entry to BIOT as well as approval for the expedition. We have issued new guidance and application procedures, available to download here:

BIOT Scientific Expedition Guidance

Any application must be submitted to the British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA) no later than:

• Three months before the scientific expedition arrives in BIOT, if access is independent of the island of Diego Garcia.
• Six months before the scientific expedition arrives in BIOT, if access involves entry by any person within 3 nautical miles of the island of Diego Garcia.

Applications for scientific expeditions which contribute to the priority areas of BIOTA’s conservation priorities are particularly encouraged.