While diving, what is a recommended action regarding resting on the bottom?

Avoiding resting on the bottom during a dive is critical for several reasons. First, resting on the seabed can disturb the marine environment, damaging sensitive ecosystems such as coral reefs or sediment structures, which can take years to recover from such disturbances. Additionally, resting on the bottom may increase the risk of entanglement or injury from sharp objects or hazardous materials that might be present on the ocean floor.

Furthermore, resting can lead to issues with buoyancy control, making it difficult to maintain a safe ascent rate during the dive. This is particularly important, as improper ascent rates can lead to decompression sickness, a serious condition that divers must avoid. Staying properly buoyant and maintaining an appropriate position in the water column helps ensure safety and minimizes risk.

Many diving organizations advocate for active buoyancy management while diving. This often includes hovering while remaining alert and aware of surroundings, allowing divers to observe marine life without putting themselves or the environment at risk. Therefore, avoiding resting on the bottom supports the health of both the diver and marine ecosystems.