The Port Newsletter - Fifth Edition

THE P RT FIFTH EDITION

PUBLISHED BY THE CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

CFTDI

ACCIDENTAL TRAVELLERS

BIODIVERSITY BEYOND NATIONAL JURISDICTION

THE ECMA AN ENIGMA THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 1

CONTENTS 04

THE NEW BIODIVERSITY BEYOND NATIONAL JURISDICTION (BBNJ) TREATY

06

WETLANDS NOT A WASTELAND

08

CC4 FISH SAFETY AT SEA TRAINING FOR SMALL-SCALE FISHERS

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ACCIDENTAL TRAVELLERS

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STUDENT CORNER: FISH PROCESSING

18

MEET THE TEAM: MICHAEL BULL

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? RENEE JODHAN

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SEAFOOD RECIPES

26

THE ECMA - AN ENIGMA?

28

BIOSECURITY IN AN AQUACULTURE FACILITY

32

CRAB FACTS

34

INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA

37

EDITOR CORNER

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

28 10 12 CAPTAIN’S BULLETIN We at Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institute are proud to be publishing the fifth edition of our Newsletter, The Port. This edition features articles such as ‘The new Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty’ by Professor Judith Gobin, ‘Accidental Travels’ by Ms. Rosemarie Kishore, ‘Wetlands not a Wasteland’ by Mr. Attish Kanhai and ‘The ECMA - An Enigma’ by Mr. Gregory de Souza. Special thanks go out to all our authors and contributors who gave of their time and expertise to produce these articles. To our readers and staff, we do hope that you enjoy the newsletter as much as we enjoyed producing it.

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 3

THE NEW BIODIVERSITY BEYOND NATIONAL JURISDICTION (BBNJ) TREATY Written by: Professor Judith Gobin

Deep-water (approx. 3000m) Eelpouts, shrimps and mussels, Trinidad and Tobago Photo credit: Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) 2019

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

BRINGING HOPE TO THE CARIBBEAN REGION! The Caribbean community (CARICOM) negotiators met very recently in New York (8th to 20th March 2022) to continue contributions and interventions on this new legally binding instrument.

The Treaty is being developed under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ); also commonly known as the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) agreement.

Let us not forget that 71% of our planet is covered by ocean and 64% of that is considered as ABNJ; that is, lying outside of the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of countries. ABNJ belongs truly to “no one”, but yet to “everyone”! Four critical areas being addressed by the Treaty are: (i) Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs), (ii) Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs) including marine protected areas (MPAs), (iii) Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and (iv) Capacity Building and Transfer of Marine Technology (CBTT). They are of importance to us as small island de ve loping state s (SIDs) territories and we must appreciate their relevance to us. SIDs are especially dependent on ocean ecosystems eg. the fisheries and tourism sectors. ABNJ are almost entirely comprised of global deep ocean where there is significant biodiversity; much of which is still unknown.

An estimation of 2 million marine species and 500 billion different types of microorganisms inhabit the deep seas. Critical ecosystem services of the deep sea include climate regulation, nutrient cycling and detoxification, all keeping our planet healthy. The deep sea environment of the Caribbean is even less Deep-water (approx. 3000m) juvenile mussels, shrimps and crab Photo credit: Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) 2019

known. However, in 2018 and 2019, the exploration vessel EV Nautilus with Dr. Judi Gobin and Dr. Diva Amon on-board (see photos), revealed for the very first time- some of Trinidad and Tobago’s amazing deep ocean ecosystems and biodiversity (including over 190 species new to science).

The deep sea has tremendous potential to be of benefit to mankind, especially as a source of genetic materials that can be used for new drugs and antibiotics (MGRs).

The deep oceans are the next frontier for discovery and we are already fishing deeper than ever with approximately 40% of fish now being caught, are in waters deeper than 200m. Developed countries are well-equipped to explore and exploit the deep sea environments while territories such as ours often lack the resources and skills. At the same time, many activities (eg. oil and gas exploration, mining, overfishing) negatively impact and/or destroy these deep sea environments.

We must (i) consider impacts cumulatively and (ii) take precautionary and ecosystem based management measures -to conserve our marine biodiversity and prevent loss of these critical ecosystem services. The BBNJ Treaty requires just such ecosystem-based action that conforms to internationally accepted principles.

Many of the inherent arrangements must be integrated across sectors and levels of ocean governance (local, regional and global), to be effective. Effective ocean governance is essential for sustaining our oceans for present and future generations of SIDs and Caribbean peoples. The BBNJ Treaty provides just such hope for us!

Extensive mussel beds amidst deep-water methane hydrate system, Trinidad and Tobago Photo credit: Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) 2019

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 5

A tall mangrove stand located close to the mouth of the Blue River

WETLANDS NOT A WASTELAND Written by: Attish Kanhai

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and protection against flooding and storm surges.

They also help fight climate change and prevent soil erosion. Wetlands also act as carbon stores, and form one of the most important sinks for greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide.

Wetlands provide a range of ecosystem services such as in water security, nurturing complex ecosystems

Wetlands also form the basis of many fish populations acting as nurseries for spawning and growth of juvenile fish. For example mangrove roots and seagrass leaves provide food and protection for juvenile fish against predators. The dead leaves of plants break down into smaller particles of organic material forming detritus, which is a major food source for small aquatic invertebrates, shellfish and forage fish with are food for larger predatory fish.

These larger fish are then consumed by people.

etlands are areas where “water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year, including during the growing season”, as per the definition of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Examples include both natural and man-made sites including lakes, swamps, marshes, mangroves, salt pans, tidal flats and reservoirs. The theme for 2022 world wetlands day is “Wetlands Action for People and Nature” which is aimed at drawing attention to the sustainable use of wetlands and the need for conservation efforts.

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

While these services are gaining traction globally, what happens on the ground is far removed from this narrative. Wetlands can often be hotbeds for nefarious activities, indiscriminate pollution, and can be seen as a hindrance for coastal development. Often times in the competition for coastal resources and space, wetlands are removed for urban development. Coastlines are prized for their scenic views giving rise to expensive waterfront properties. The accessibility of coastlines also makes them ideal for the shipping and transportation sector.

Competition for space is far from the only challenge faced by wetlands.

Red mangroves Rhizophora mangle where Scarlet Ibis roost

It is common to see the ubiquitous plastic pollution among these sensitive ecosystems. They are also at the mercy of upstream activities and land based sources of pollution. The conservation of wetland ecosystems requires more than just creating nature reserves in the immediate area that house these sensitive environmental species. It is about managing upstream activities, accessibility and wise use of its resources, and managing the coastline for surrounding competing activities. One such method of management is known as the ridge to reef (R2R) concept. This concept involves managing all activities upstream of the coast (ridge), in order to mitigate the consequences past the coast (reef). For example sedimentation, nutrient pollution and plastic waste are all land based activities that have major consequences for freshwater, marine and wetland ecosystems, making their conservation essential.

Wetlands are more than just areas for indiscriminate dumping of garbage and other pollutants. Wetlands are more than a wasteland but an invaluable part of nature providing innumerable and irreplaceable ecosystem services.

Mangrove trees forming a canopy over the Blue River

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 7

CC4 FISH SAFETY AT SEA TRAINING FOR SMALLSCALE FISHERS

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he Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institute (CFTDI) conducted Safety at Sea Training for Small-Scale Fishers in four (4) communities throughout Trinidad. This training was organized in collaboration with the Climate Change Adaptation in the Eastern Caribbean Fisheries Sector (CC4FISH) Project in Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (Fisheries Division) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO/UN), with financial support being provided by the FAO’s CC4FISH Project.

Student holding lit flare

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Written by: Dereck Archer

Improving fisher’s safety at sea has become increasingly important due to the lack of implemented safety systems by local fisherfolk. During training thirty-seven (37) fisherfolk benefited from four (4), five-day training sessions in Trinidad focusing on Safety-at-Sea for Small Scale Fishers. Workshops which were held at four (4) different locations in Trinidad: Maracas Bay Community Centre from 18th-22nd October 2021, Orange Valley Community Centre from 25th-29th October 2021, Toco Regional Complex from 8th-12th November 2021 and Macaulay Community Centre from 6th-10th December 2021.

Student tossing activated smoke flare into the ocean

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

The participants had the opportunity to use the different types of distress flares, (smoke, handheld, and rocket) and got the chance to use a VHF Marine Radio. After the practical session, there was a closing ceremony where the training attendees received participation certificates.

The feedback received from the fisherfolk all indicated that the Safety at Sea for Small Scale Fishers training program was a resounding success.

Student releasing rocket flare

IMPROVING FISHER’S SAFETY AT SEA HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT

The participants who attended the training we re from the fishing communities of Maracas Bay, Las Cuevas, La Fillette, Blanchisseuse, Cacandee, Brickfield, Orange Valley, Balandra, Toco, Grande Riviere, Matelot, Claxton Bay, Jumbie Bay and San Fernando.

During each five (5) day training session there were different modules daily, beginning with General Safety, Personal Safety, Vessel Stability and Survival at Sea on day one. Day two focused on Rules of the Road. The timetable for day three comprised Emergency Preparations, Safety Risk Management and Boat Handling. The topics of discussion scheduled for day four were Basic First Aid, Communication, and a hands-on practical session on Outboard Engine.

The focus on day five was the practical training and the morning session was spent at sea onboard two vessels with the emphasis being on survival at sea.

Participants of the CC4Fish Training on their final day, after receipt of certificates

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 9

ACCIDENTAL TR Written by: Rosemarie Kishore

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aritime shipping is fundamental to world trade and commerce; it is used to transport food, fuel, equipment, medicines, household items and much more. For Trinidad and Tobago, 90% of goods brought into the country is by ships. The conveyors of much needed goods also transport other things, which are not always wanted. A multitude of marine organisms is transported across oceans including bacteria, invertebrates, microbes, and eggs, cysts and larvae of a plethora of marine species. Some of these species when introduced into new environments beyond their native range, once established, spread and become invasive causing some type of harm thereby putting ecosystems, economies, and human health at risk.

While shipping is the pathway, which facilitates this introduction, ballast water, as well as the ship’s hull, and other cavities that are exposed to seawater, are the vectors by which these potentially marine invasive alien species (IAS) are transported into new environments. The exchange of ballast water used for safe and efficient shipping operations during loading and offloading of cargo is the mechanism by which marine IAS are introduced. Similarly, the outer surfaces of the hulls and internal cavities of ships provide good habitats for encrusting marine organisms such as bryozoans, sponges, barnacles and mussels, a term called biofouling. When these organisms come into new environments, the scraping of hulls or through spawning by the organisms, can release either the organisms or

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their gametes, leading to the establishment of new introduced populations.

The re are hundre ds of docume nte d bioinvasions around the world. In Trinidad and Tobago, there are five known marine species introduction, the green or green-lipped mussel, Perna viridis, the Lionfish Pterois volitans, the barnacle Megabalanus zebra and the Indo-Pacific damselfish (Regal Demoiselle), Neopomacentrus cyanomos. In addition, the Asian tiger prawn Penaeus monodon is increasing found among commercial catches on all the coasts of Trinidad.

Though not seen as yet in TT waters but found elsewhere in the Caribbean, stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) caused most likely by a bacteria, is another such bio-invasion that is of concern.

The Indo-Pacific green mussel is thought to have been introduced either by ballast water or ship hull fouling in 1990, whereas the barnacle was found on the hulls of recreational foreign yachts berthed in marinas in Trinidad in 2008. The Lionfish first seen in 2012 in Tobago is presumed to be from natural drift of invading populations elsewhere in the Atlantic and where it is thought that its initial introduction was in Florida, USA with confirmed sightings in 1985 and in 1992.

The presence of the Regal Demoiselle in Trinidad in 2019 has been postulated to be similar to its first introduction in the Gulf of Mexico in 2013 via offshore petroleum infrastructure (such as rigs) moved in water from its native range.

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

RAVELLERS

(E) Lionfish, Pterois volitans.

Photo Source – D. Buddo

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 11

Figure 1. Vessel ports calls to port facilities in Trinidad and Tobago by vessel type for 2011 based on the EPAN database (Kishore 2013). Noted since this assessment, some of these port facilities such as Arcelor Mittal may have changed ownership.

The Asian tiger prawn in the Atlantic region have been suggested to be due to either discharged ballast water from its native range, transport of larvae from established non-native populations in the Caribbean or South America via ocean currents; or escape from active aquaculture facilities in the western Atlantic. It has been suggested that one of the main causes of the spread of the stony coral tissue loss disease has been due to improper ballast water exchanges.

observed in 1990, within three years, it had quickly spread along the west coast of Trinidad (Agard et al. 1992). It then expanded its Atlantic distribution from Trinidad to Venezuela (1996), Jamaica (1998), Florida (1999), Cuba (2005) and Columbia (2009). In Trinidad, the main impact of the green mussel has been an economic one, clogging intakes of seawater cooling systems of industrial plants in the Point Lisas area.

It has been estimated that at the time of this problem, the total annual cost of Two of the five marine introduced species, controlling this marine IAS along in with the green mussel and the Lionfish have other fouling organisms was $US 1.13 been described as invasive, while for million (Chase 2016). Not all economic the other three species, more research impacts were negative as they were is needed to identify and quantify collected by traditional oyster collectors their impacts. If we were to look at the and sold to households and commercially invasion of the green mussel closer, after to restaurants as late as the early 2000s the introduction of the green mussel in (Kishore 2013, Guppy 2001). Ecological the Point Lisas region where it was first impacts have not been extensively 12 |

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

(B) Green mussels collected from mangrove prop root in the Caroni Swamp.

Circa 1990. Photo Source – J. Agard

studied, however, it has been observed crowding out other native species from mangrove prop roots in the Caroni Swamp during its early phase of invasion (Figure 1 B).

2018). Genetic analysis of the green mussel from the Atlantic region by US researchers indicated that the source of the spread in the Atlantic region was from Trinidad (Benson et.al. 2001, Gilg et al. 2012). The countries in the Atlantic region where In a study by the Institute of Marine the green mussel was found are trading Affairs as part of a larger regional UNEP- partners with Trinidad and Tobago, with funded project on IAS, it was found that ships making port calls in these countries. after 27 years since its introduction, A ballast water status assessment by the distribution of the green mussel Kishore in 2013, noted that there are has remained relatively unchanged. It eight (8) major ports included in thirty is mainly present on the west coast of (30) International Ship and Port Facility Trinidad with a small recent intrusion on Security (ISPS) compliant port facilities in its northwest coast, but still absent from Trinidad and Tobago. With the exception the east and south coasts of Trinidad of two port facilities in Tobago, 26 of the and from Tobago. Populations are much remaining 28 are located along the west reduced and the species can best be coast of Trinidad. Most of the sites where described as naturalised (Kishore et al. the green mussel are still found today in Trinidad are predominately at port and port facilities, and as such, it remains an opportunity for the introduction and further expansion of the geographic spread of P. viridis via ballast water or hull fouling from commercial shipping.

To elaborate further on this and in the absence of information on ballast water volume exchange, Kishore (2013) used vessel traffic and the frequency of vessel movements by vessel type (~ tonnage) coming in from foreign ports to the local ports, to indirectly indicate potential ballast water volume exchanges and probable sources of marine IAS introductions. In terms of vessel traffic, the main ports are at Point Lisas, Chaguaramas, Port of Spain, Point a Pierre and Point Fortin, Figure 1. As expected, the larger vessels are those exporting crude oil and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 13

Using data for 2011 from the Electronic Pre- Arrival Notification (EPAN) database from the Coast Guard (which tracks the entry of vessels into the country), 64 countries traded with Trinidad and Tobago, with ships from 16 of these countries making ≥ 20 port of calls. These countries share similar environmental conditions in that the trading countries either share the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea making Trinidad and to a lesser extent (= less trade) Tobago, much more susceptible to introductions of marine IAS from these countries.

out in a following article what national initiatives are being developed by the maritime sector to reduce the threat from these accidental travellers.

Ballast water management along with strategies to reduce the threat from biofouling are therefore essential to reducing the introduction of marine IAS into Trinidad and Tobago and the potential threat to economies, ecosystems and human health. Find

(C) Asian tiger prawn collected on the north coast, Trinidad in 2020.

Photo Source – F. Solomon

(A) Green mussels collected from Alcoa Jetty, Carenage in 2012. Photo Source – R. Kishore

(D) Barnacle, Megabalanus zebra.

Photo Source – A. Jute

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

(A) Green mussels collected from Alcoa Jetty, Carenage in 2012. Photo Source – R. Kishore

References Agard, J., Kishore, R. and B. Bayne. 1992. Perna viridis (Linnaeus, 1758): first records of the Indo-Pacific green mussel (Mollusca: Bivalvia) in the Caribbean. Caribb. Mar. Stud. 3:59–60.

Benson, A.J, Marelli, D.C, Frischer, M.E., Danforth, J.M., and Williams, J.D. 2001. Establishment of the Green Mussel, Perna viridis (Linnaeus 1758) Mollusca: Mytilidae) on the West coast of Florida. Journal of shellfish Research, Vol.20, No.1, 21-29.

Chase, C. 2016. Economic Assessment of Fouling Organisms with a Focus on the Marine Invasive Perna viridis. A Research Project submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement of the Degree of Masters of Science in Marketing and Agribusiness.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Production, St Augustine Campus, University of the West Indies. 94pp.

Gilg, M.R, Johnson, E.G, Gobin, J, Bright, B.M and Ortolaza, A.I. 2012. Population genetics of introduced and native populations of the green mussel, Perna viridis: determining patterns of introduction. Biol Invasions DOI 10.1007/s10530-012-0301-2.

Guppy, M. 2001. Chemical Investigations on the Green Lipped Mussel (Perna viridis) in the Gulf of Paria, Trinidad. UWI Thesis.

Kishore, R. 2013. Ballast Water Status Assessment – The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Report prepared for the Regional Activity Centre/Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Information and Training Centre (RAC-REMPEITC).

Kishore, R, Jute. A. and Phillip, K. 2018. Ecological assessment of the marine invasive alien species (IAS) Perna viridis in Trinidad and Tobago. Institute of Marine Affairs Research Report. 60pp

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 15

a b

c

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

e

STUDENT CORNER: FISH PROCESSING Fish Processing at CFTDI demonstrates best practices in producing safe wholesome chilled and frozen Finfish products. Consequently, instruction and skills training will focus on the technology pertaining to Fish Handling and Processing including, Chilling, Freezing, preparation of various market forms, packaging and Quality Control techniques.

f

a. Demonstration of fish fillet b. Students processing fish c. Students doing fish evaluation d. Student processing e. Students brining fish f. Demonstration of a fish fillet cut g. Student holding a finished fish fillet

g

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 17 THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 17

MEET THE TEAM MICHAEL BULL

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r Michael Bull joined the CFTDI family in 2003 and has retained his position as an instructor for 18 years. At CFTDI, he is responsible for delivering training in Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting geared toward the marine industry. Mr Bull was an officer in the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service (TTFS) for 33 years be fore re tire me nt in 2011. He was drawn to the Marine aspe ct of Fire Fighting in 1996 after salvaging a sinking shrimp trawler vessel. Since then he has utilized the training from

the TTFS along with certification in Occupational Safety and Health Hazards for the Marine Industry-Longshore, Incident Command Systems and Shipboard Fire Fighting for Shorebase Firefighters to enhance his knowledge and capabilities. The most important piece of advice that Mr Bull would give when dealing with marine fires is, “Never be anxious to get to work especially with marine fires, you must size up the situation by identifying the class of fire, the method of approach and the resources at hand”.

Demonstrating the use of a Fire Extinguisher

Michael Bull CFTDI Instructor

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

Guiding students to enter a Fire House

ENROLL NOW

RATINGS FORMING PART OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH The course covers the theoretical aspect of coastal navigation that needs to be acquired before practical chartwork can be undertaken. It provides the fundamental knowledge required and teaches the principles of Navigation. Some of the topics covered include but are not limited to use of magnetic and gyro-compasses, helm orders, responsibilities of a look-out, communication, emergency duties, alarm signals along with distress calls, EPIRBs and SARTs. This certification allows for the operation of seagoing ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.

Telephone: 1(868)-634-4528/1635 Ext: 204, 205 and 206 THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 19 cftdi.registrydepartment@gmail.com

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? RENEE JODHAN Written by: Kerri Griffith

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s Renee Jodhan is well known locally as Trinidad and Tobago’s first female Tugboat Captain/Master, a title which she has held for eight ye ars. She is also the younge st female captain within local waters.

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Renee initially pursued a career in Law,however, curiosity drew her toward the Maritime Industry. Ms Jodhan entered the industry as a Captain at the age of 23 after pursuing courses at CFTDI such as Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Medical First Aid and Boatmaster

along with additional courses at the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

Local companies were originally sceptical in hiring females, but Renee’s breakthrough came with Caribbean Crewing and Manning Services Limited. Renee has also worked

Renee Jodhan at drydock

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE in Suriname

Renee Jodhan standing next to a vessel in Point Lisas

Renee Jodhan on board the Svitzer Karak in the Kingdom of Bahrain

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO’S FIRST FEMALE TUGBOAT CAPTAIN/MASTER for Coloured Fin Limited and she is currently employed at ARC Towage Limited. According to Ms Jodhan, it is still a male-dominated industry and women working at sea is especially hard to find more so female Captains.

It was only recently brought to Ms Jodhan’s attention that she is the first female Tugboat Captain and she is proud to know that she was able in her words to, “Break this glass ceiling”.

As a Tugboat Captain Renee is responsible for the overall management of the crew aboard the vessel. She is also responsible

for managing and promoting safety culture while ensuring the smooth operation of the vessel. Renee also acts as a bridge that communicates the needs of crew members abroad the vessel to management and vice versa. With her current employer, ARC Towage Limited, Renee is currently in charge of managing tugboats that are used to escort Liquefied Natural Gas Tankers.

When asked about the difficulties faced within the industry the main drawback identified by Ms Jodhan was that of being away from one’s family and friends for extended periods.

She typically works two weeks shifts on board a vessel; however, there have be e n occasions whe re he r time on board was extended to six weeks. Renee however went on to state that although it is difficult, she is very happy with her career and she has developed great camaraderie amongst her co-workers.

Renee Jodhan standing next to a vessel in Point Lisas

She also then went on to emphasise that she has always worked amongst very respectful persons, who are always willing to share the ir knowledge.

When asked what advise she would give to young persons entering this industry Ms Jodhan advised not to let fear of a decline in the industry deter you. She also went onto state, that you should be prepared to be away from home. However, she emphasised that her career and the maritime industry is very rewarding and that there is always room for growth.

Ms Jodhan is currently pursuing her Masters in Operational Maritime Management at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. After which she intends to explore the study area of Naval Architecture as it is one of her main interests. Renee currently remains undecided about her specific career path, however; she is entirely sure that whatever it is that it will be within the Maritime Industry.

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 21

CARIBBEAN CRAB CAK Serves 4

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

KES

INGREDIENTS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

225g (1/2lb) white crab meat 1 potato, peeled and cut into chunks 1/8 tsp salt 4 scallions, chopped 1 clove of garlic, chopped 15g (1tbsp) fresh thyme, chopped 15g (1tbsp) fresh basil, chopped 15g (1tbsp) fresh cilantro, chopped 2.5g (1/2 tsp) mustard 1/2 fresh green chili seeded and finely chopped 1 egg, lightly beaten All-purpose flour, for dusting sunflower oil, for pan frying lime wedges, to garnish cherry tomatoes, chopped (to serve)

DIRECTIONS

1. Place potatoes and salt in a pan, then cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until softened.

2. Drain well; mash potatoes until smooth.

3. Pound scallions, thyme basil and cilantro until mashed together.

4. Add the herb paste to the potato. Add the crabmeat, mustard, chili, egg and pepper.

5. Mix well and cover. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

6. Sprinkle flour onto a flat plate. Shape a spoonful of the crabmeat mixture into small balls. Flatten slightly and dust with flour, then shake off any excess flour.

7. Heat oil in a skillet over a high heat, then add the crab cakes. Cook in batches for 2-3 minutes.

8. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Set aside and allow to cool to room temperature.

9. Arrange crab cakes on a serving dish and garnish with lime wedges.Serve with a bowl of cherry tomatoes.

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 23

www.gritsandpinecones.com

INGREDIENTS

• 336g (3/4 lb) jumbo shrimp, shelled and deveined • ½ fresh pineapple, peeled and chopped or 1 can pineapple, drained • 50ml (1/4 cup) coconut cream • 30g (2 tbsp) Thai fish sauce or regular fish sauce • 5g (2 tsp) sugar • 30g (2 tbsp) fresh cilantro, chopped • 45ml (3 tbsp) oil DIRECTIONS

1. Mix together 2 tablespoons of coconut cream, curry and sugar to form a paste 2. Heat oil in a large skillet, add curry paste mixture stirring until bubbling 3. Add shrimp and cilantro and stir frequently for one minute. Add the remaining coconut cream and stir.

4. Simmer for 2 minutes, taste and add salt if necessary. Add the pineapple, simmer until shrimp is cooked. Serve Immediately.

5. Serve with steamed jasmine rice.

Note: Coconut Cream and coconut milk are sometimes used interchangeably, but coconut cream is the pure cream skimmed off the coconut milk.

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

CURRIED PINEAPPLE & SHRIMP

Serves 4

www.myheartbeets.com THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 25

THE ECMA – AN ENIGMA? “MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS?

HAS THE

OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY AND ITS ATTENDANT REGULATIONS HAD ANY EFFECT ON THE FISHERIES OFF THE EAST COAST OF TRINIDAD? OTHER THAN THOSE TANGIBLE BENEFITS PROVIDED

BY THE BIG INDUSTRY PLAYERS TO THE COASTAL COMMUNITIES SUCH AS INFRASTRUCTURE, TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AND SCHOLARSHIPS, HAVE THERE ALSO BEEN NOT-TOO-OBVIOUS CONTRIBUTIONS? THE FOLLOWING BRIEF DISCUSSION IS INTENDED TO PROVIDE SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT.”

T

he East Coast Marine Area (ECMA) was so designated by those that managed the production of hydrocarbon resources of Trinidad and Tobago. It is part of the wider Atlantic Ocean and is defined as that area of Trinidad and Tobago’s Exclusive Economic Zone off the East Coast of Trinidad. The area has traditionally been exploited for its living resources from pre-Columbine times, as evidenced by artifacts from Amerindian middens, and for many decades for its non-living resources of oil and gas, the source of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic windfall of the 1970s.

conduits for delivering the produced resources to land.

As is well documented (see Suggested Readings), such offshore infrastructure act as Fish Aggregation Devices or FADs, offering substrates for sessile organisms, shelter from large predators, and sources of nutrients in the form of discarded food from manned installations, an ideal setting for thriving marine communities.

Such a scenario, coupled with the restriction on fishing methods within the ECMA, has indirectly benefitted the fisheries resource of the area. One such restriction relates It is proposed that the very presence of marine-based to the ban on trawling within the ECMA, for reasons of safety oil and gas infrastructure, and management strategies and reducing risk of damage to the sub-sea infrastructure designed to protect them and manage risk of upset and upset incidents. Demersal trawling has been incidents within the industry, have had some positive considered to be unsustainable because of its disturbance impacts on the sustainability of the living resources. Such and destruction of benthic habitats, along with wastage infrastructure includes numerous platforms, both manned through incidental bycatch of juveniles of commercially and unmanned, and an intricate network of pipelines, important fish species. umbilical connections and other elements that provide 26 |

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

energynow.tt

Image of offshore manned installation courtesy BPTT

There are other regulations and activities associated with the offshore hydrocarbon industry that may indirectly impact the fisheries. These include regulations related to the safety zones around platforms, into which fishing vessels are not allowed, thus reducing the fishing effort in such areas. Fishing restrictions also extend to temporary exclusion from areas in which seismic surveys are being conducted. There is much contention as to whether such surveys have long-lasting negative effects on the fisheries of such areas.

Suggested reading: 1. Slabbekoorn H. et al (2019).

Population-level Consequences of Seismic Surveys on Fisheries: An Interdisciplinary Challenge. In: Fish and Fisheries 20 (4) pp 653-685.

2. Shepherd S., Brophy D. and Reid D. G. (2010). Can Bottom Trawling Indirectly Diminish Carrying Capacity in a Marine Ecosystem? In: Marine Biology 157 (11) pp 2375-2381.

3. Buckley R. M., Itano D. G. and Buckley T. W. (1989).

In the final analysis, a pertinent question arises – Are the Fish Aggregation Device (FAD) Enhancement of Offshore perceived benefits to the fishery resource in the ECMA Fisheries in American Samoa. In: Bulletin of Marine Science arising from the Oil and Gas Industry regulations really 44 (2) pp 942-949 sustainable? What happens at the end of life of the ageing seabed infrastructure? Will they be decommissioned in an environmentally safe manner? Or will they be allowed to be the source of pollution that may spell dire consequences on Written by: Gregory de Souza the same living resources they provided benefits to during their useful life?

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 27

BIOSECURITY IN AN AQUACULTURE FACILITY Written by: Fazeel Mohammed

B

iosecurity refers to the concept of protecting culture animals from contamination of disease causing organisms and preventing the spread of diseases both within a facility and infectious agents leaving a facility. Examining specific points in production where pathogens (disease-causing parasites, bacteria, viruses and fungi) may be introduced or diseases may develop.

This will assist pro¬ducers with establishing precautionary measures.

The ease in which a pathogen can enter a facility, spread from one system to the next, and cause disease is determined by the following factors: 1. The cultured fish's species, immune status, condition, life stage, and strain susceptibility; 2. Major environmental factors such as water quality, water chemistry, and husbandry practices; 3. Pathogen characteristics such as biology and life cycle, potential reservoirs (carriers, other animals) and survival on inanimate objects (equipment).

4. Employee’s knowledge of biosecurity principles and adherence to biosecurity Goals of biosecurity There are three main goals to achieve effective biosecurity: 1. Animal management—obtaining healthy stocks and optimizing their health and immunity through good husbandry 2. Pathogen management—preventing, reducing or eliminating pathogens 3. People management—educating and managing staff and visitors

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1. Animal management • Get healthy animals (eggs, fry, fingerlings and broodstocks) from a reputable supplier.

• Obtain as much information on the health of the animal before purchase.

• Avoid stressing animals i.e. unnecessary and inappropriate handling.

• Maintaining good water quality and nutrition is critical to fish health and the control of pathogens.

• Observe for abnormal appearance (e.g. colour change) and behaviour (e.g. poor feeding response).

• Quarantine all new animals coming into a facility, animals moving from one area or system to another within the facility and resident fish that becomes diseased.

• All quarantine items, equipment and water should be separated from that of the main farm.

• Know the common and important infectious and non-infectious diseases of the animal you cultivate and which life stages may be affected.

• Treat fish with appropriate medication.

Consult with a fish health professional.

2. Pathogen management It's crucial to understand pathogen biology in order to control its survival and spread. Pathogens can live and grow in a variety of environments, including water, system components, equipment, floors, walls, feed, the cultured animal itself, other animals (such as frogs and rodents), and plants. They can enter a facility through aerosol (e.g. small water droplets), equipment, cars, and people, and they can be disseminated by other animals living in or

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

near ponds or tanks. They differ, however, in their ability to infect and spread disease. This can be mitigated by taking a few simple steps: •

• •

Remove all uneaten foods and other organic matter from within the system as they favour pathogen survival and spread.

Some infectious disease are easily controlled by good sanitation and disinfection.

Some pathogens cannot be treated effectively or easily, therefore good preventative practices are the best option.

3. People management.

Only if farm management, personnel, and visitors understand and implement the necessary procedures will biosecurity be successful. Only authorized personnel should have access to critical areas. Visitors who arrive at your facility after visiting another facility pose a severe threat.

An example of a foot bath, hand-washing station and restrictive access signage into an aquaculture production facility

It is mandatory to employ disinfection stations, particularly at entrances and along the system for people and equipment.

For example: • Footbaths • Hand-washing stations with antibacterial soap • Net disinfection station • Showers • Vehicle disinfection station • 70% alcohol sprays.

Net disinfection station

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 29

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

The applicant must have working knowledge of English and Basic Literacy Skills. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and in good health which is to be supported by a valid Medical Certificate.

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

COURSE SCHEDULE APRIL

Basic Training: 4th - 13th Basic Training Revalidation: 19th - 21st Advanced Fire Fighting: 25th - 29th Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch: 19th - 2nd Outboard Engine Maintenance & Repairs: 4th - 8th

MAY

Basic Training: 9th - 18th Basic Training Revalidation: 4th - 6th Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch: 9th 30th

JUNE

Basic Training: 6th - 15th Basic Training Revalidation: 1st - 3rd Proficiency in Survival Craft (Rev): 6th - 10th

CONTACT INFO Telephone: 1(868)-634-4528/1635 Training Administration - ext: 204, 205 and 206

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 31

BLUE LAND CRAB Physical Description

The Blue land crab or Cardisoma guanhumi is of the family Gecarcinidae. It has an eggshaped carapace or outer shell that typically grows up to a maximum width of approximately 5 inches in males and 4 inches in females. They tend to weigh approximately 500 grams. The Blue land crab has five pairs of legs, two of which are chelipeds or crab arms that end in chelae which are known as pincers, one large and one small. Juveniles tend to be dark brown in colour while adults are blue-grey with dirty chelipeds. Females during reproduction tend to be white or grey.

(Cardisoma guanhumi)

Habitat and Distribution

Blue land crabs are terrestrial with burrows up to 1.5 meters deep typically in firm muddy areas. They are commonly found in mangroves, along canals, ditches and debris, open fields, margins of rivers and forests. They have an extensive distribution throughout the Caribbean to Brazil and also in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida and Texas.

Reproduction

Reproduction is seasonal and depends upon lunar cycles.

Eggs are fertilized internally and are carried externally in the abdomen for approximately two weeks. Approximately 300,000 to 700,000 eggs are carried before being released in the ocean during spawning. They are then released as larvae. Blue land crabs reach sexual maturity at 4 years

Diet

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Blue land crabs are omnivores although they mainly feast on leaves, flowers, berries, grass and decaying plant material. They occasionally eat insects and their young.

CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE txmarspecies.tamug.edu

HAIRY LAND CRAB (Ucides cordatus) Habitat and Distribution

They are true mangrove crabs that live in swamp conditions. They prefer very soft mud in open ground or under vegetation in areas that are flooded by tidal surges such as near river mouths and brackish water. They also tend to stay in burrows created by other crabs. They are distributed throughout the Caribbean and the Western Atlantic from Florida to the Gulf of Mexico.

They can also be found in Central and South America.

Physical Description

The Mangrove Crab or Hairy land crab with the scientific name Ucides cordatus is of the Family Ocypodidae and it is the largest of mangrove crabs. It is also the most sluggish of land crabs. It has a similarly shaped carapace to that of the blue crab with a maximum carapace width of 4 inches. The carapace is usually bluish and yellow with deep dark coloured grooves They also have five pairs of legs with two pincers.

Reproduction

The Mangrove crab also has seasonal spawning which begins at the start of the rainy season. It is also controlled by lunar cycles - searching for a mate occurs one or two days after the full or new moon. Eggs are carried on their abdomen as well once fertilized. The incubation period for the Mangrove Crab is 3.5 to 4 weeks.

Eggs are released along with spring tides that flood the mangroves.

Sexual maturity at around 3 years old.

Diet

The mangrove crab are mainly herbivores that rely on mangrove litter, roots and bark.

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 33 sta.uwi.edu

COLREGS - INTERNATI FOR PREVENTING C

In this article we will look at Rule 13 Overtaking; Rule 14 Head-on situation; Rule 15 Cros Responsibilities between vessels; Rule 19

RULE 13 OVERTAKING Any vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.

A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with another vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft her beam, that is, in such a position with reference to the vessel she is overtaking, that at night she would be able to see only the sternlight of that vessel but neither of her sidelights.

When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether she is overtaking another, she shall assume that this is the case and act accordingly.

Any subsequent alteration of the bearing between the two vessels shall not make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel within the meaning of these Rules or relieve her of the duty of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until she is finally past and clear.

RULE 14 HEAD-ON SITUATION When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall alter her course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.

Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other ahead or nearly ahead and by night she could see the masthead lights of the other in a line or nearly in a line and/or both sidelights and by day she observes the corresponding aspect of the other vessel.

When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

TIONAL REGULATIONS COLLISIONS AT SEA

ssing situation; Rule 16 Action by give-way vessel; Rule 17 Action by stand-on vessel; Rule 18 Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility.

RULE 15 CROSSING SITUATION When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.

RULE 16 ACTION BY GIVE-WAY VESSEL Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear

RULE 17 ACTION BY STAND-ON VESSEL Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way, the other shall keep her course and speed.

The latter vessel may, however, take action to avoid collision by her maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in compliance with these Rules.

When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course and speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to avoid collision.

A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing situation to avoid collision with THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 35 another power-driven vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, not alter course to port for a vessel on her own port side.

RULE 18 RESPONSIBILITIES BETWEEN VESSELS A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of: • a vessel not under command; • a vessel constrained by her draft; • a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuver • a vessel engaged in fishing; • a sailing vessel; A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of: • a vessel not under command; • a vessel constrained by her draft; • a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver; • a vessel engaged in fishing.

•

•

A vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, keep out of the way of: • a vessel not under command; a vessel constrained by her draft; a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.

A vessel other than a vessel not under command or a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid impeding the safe passage of a vessel constrained by her draft

RULE 19 CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility.

Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power driven vessel shall have her engines ready for immediate maneuver.

Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility If a vessel detects another vessel by radar alone, it shall: • Determine if a close quarters situation is developing and/or a risk of collision exists • Take avoiding action early The following should be AVOIDED • an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken; an alteration of course toward a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.

If a vessel hears a fog signal of another vessel forward of her beam or a vessel cannot avoid a close quarters situation with another vessel forward of the beam, it shall: • Reduce her speed to bare steerageway • If necessary take all way off | CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE 36 • Navigate with extreme caution until the risk of collision has passed

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Professor Judith Gobin

Attish Kanhai

Dereck Archer

Rosemarie Kishore

Georgry de Souza

Fazeel Mohammed

Professor of Marine Biology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus and expert advisor to CARICOM

Senior Research Officer Fisheries & Aquaculture Research Programme Institute of Marine Affairs

Research Officer, Benthic Ecology, Institute of Marine Affairs

Fisheries and Aquaculture Researcher

Safety Officer, Caribbean Fisheries Training & Development Institute

Facilities Maintenance Officer, Caribbean Fisheries Training & Development Institute

Kerri Griffith

Project Assistant Caribbean Fisheries Training & Development Institute

THE PORT NEWSLETTER | 37

THE PORT NEWSLETTER 1st Avenue South, Western Main Road, Chaguaramas, Port of Spain, Telephone: (868) 634-4276/1635,

NEWSLETTER TEAM Fazeel Mohammed, Emile Jobity, Kerri Griffith, Jeremy Williams, Zozrina Edghill.

Front Cover: Emile Jobity

Back Cover: Kerri Griffith

Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institute is an Agency of

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CARIBBEAN FISHERIES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries