MANGROVE ECOLOGY

Gregg in mangrove with students


ECOSYSTEM ECOLOGY - In association with Boston University, Department of Ecology, Behavior and Evolution, the major mangrove forests of Carriacou have been surveyed and an area in Petit Carenage selected as the site of a full investigation of eco-system scale mangrove ecology. Specifically, this on-going investigation examines both existing and planted mangroves, considering interactions between plants and the soil environment, as well as the effect of bioturbation by resident crab species on soil biogeochemistry within both healthy and disturbed mangal. Because Carriacou’s mangrove resources remain largely unhindered by development and/or other destructive activities, ecological investigation of this system provides a unique opportunity to consider ‘natural’ conditions. In addition to providing a mangrove resource base for Carriacou, such an investigation is a useful tool for comparison to degraded mangrove ecosystems common on other more developed Caribbean islands aiming towards the development of restoration and wetland enhancement strategies.For more information, contact Mr. Gregg Moore, Boston University. E-mail - gmoore@bio.edu.

REEF/MARINE ECOLOGY

Elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata)


REEF ECOLOGY- A comprehensive survey of the existing reef system surrounding Carriacou has been completed to assess system health and functional values . The data collected will be utilized towards the development conservation management strategies designed to protect remaining resources for the future. The survey, conducted by faculty and university students, documented a wide variety of factors believed to be indicative of the relative health of the existing reef system. Hands-on surveys recorded the extent of both live and dead corals, noting inhabitants of these reef systems throughout the areas. The preliminary results are being reviewed to develop an action plan for future and continued research and monitoring. For more information, contact Dr. David Patriquin, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, conductor of research on the sea grasses of Carriacou and a preliminary survey on the state of the reef surrounding Sandy Island.For more information contact Dr. Stephen Price, Canadian biologist who conducted research on Carriacou's surrounding reef and coastal areas. E-mail - purnimap@uvic.ca.