2023 was a fruitful year of research and innovation at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), and we continue to see momentum as we progress into 2024. We hope this impact report gives you insight into the work that our dedicated teams have done over the past year.
CEI is the hub for research and innovation at The Island School located on Cape Eleuthera, with a mandate to find new ways to better manage our natural resources and to live sustainably. We engage students of all ages in this work, connecting them to the environment while developing a new generation of change-makers. Ultimately, our work is about effecting change to move us towards a more livable future – for our communities, The Bahamas, and the wider world. This puts an emphasis on tackling realworld problems that I hope shines through in the following pages.
The past year has brought a sobering focus to the urgency of tackling climate change, with global and ocean temperatures breaking record high temperatures. This has real consequences, which our coral research team’s work can show. As humanity collectively wrestles with the challenge of minimising the impact of climate change, I hope that the work you see on the following pages can provide hope and inspiration that a brighter future is possible. Thank you for your continued support!
DR. NICK HIGGS Director of Research & Innovation
THE BAHAMAS CORAL INNOVATION HUB
BY NATALIA HURTADO AND SILIA WOODSIDE
Coral reefs provide habitat to many organisms, while protecting shorelines and contributing to sustainability of livelihoods. Unfortunately, these valuable ecosystems are exposed to multiple stressors that are significantly reducing coral populations faster than they can reproduce and recover. To assist in the rehabilitation of reefs on a local scale, active coral restoration has been implemented in The Bahamas and throughout the Caribbean. Since 2018, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), and Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) have been working together using their unique scientific expertise and connections to develop and disseminate innovative coral restoration through The Bahamas Coral Innovation Hub (BCIH) project, based at The Island School on Cape Eleuthera, The Bahamas. The overall goal of coral restoration is to rebuild the ecological function of coral reefs and has been shown to be successful on local scales. The purpose of BCIH project is to undertake scientific research to improve current coral restoration techniques, while serving as a research facility that hosts a network of integrative people. The project is led by Natalia Hurtado with the assistance of Silia Woodside, and their research is centered around three main objectives to improve the way people apply coral restoration on Bahamian reefs. 1) Implement and progress restoration efforts using a multi-technique approach, 2) design and execute long-term monitoring of restoration work in South Eleuthera, and 3) Include local and abroad students in coral reef restoration and provide opportunities for Bahamians and young scientists.
ONGOING PROJECTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Reef Rescue Network
Ocean-based nurseries
The BCIH project is part of the Reef Rescue Network, which aims to rehabilitate coral reefs by restoring coral populations. Coral population abundance has been increased by propagating coral fragments asexually. First, coral fragments grow in coral nurseries (ocean/ land-based) and, once they reach a certain size, are transplanted to degraded reefs. In South Eleuthera, 21 mid-water structures with coral tree design were installed and populated with coral fragments from 31 source colonies and three Critically Endangered coral species (Acropora cervicornis, A. palmata and A. prolifera, commonly known as Staghorn, Elkhorn and fused Staghorn, respectively) at a dive site called Tunnel Rock. Genetic diversity is key to ensure resilience—our
team has been measuring growth, outplant success and long-term survival, while growing corals from distinctive thermal zones around The Bahamas (Bimini, Exuma, New Providence, Cat Island, and Eleuthera), which has been key to improving diversity and coral restoration efforts. The holding capacity of the ocean-based nursery was increased five times its original size, becoming the largest in situ nursery in The Bahamas, with more than 1,400 fragments.
In 2023, with the need to have replicates of existing genotypes, a second nursery site was established in Harbour Rocks, where three new coral nursery trees were installed with 600 fragments from 12 source colonies, and growth comparisons were collected monthly through pictures and measurements. Corals bigger than 30 cm were outplanted on several sites using two techniques.
The most common within The Bahamas and the Caribbean uses marine epoxy. However, several Caribbean islands have tested the use of rebars that keep the fragments safe from predators. More than 400 coral fragments were moved from the nursery to three locations in Eleuthera (Bamboo, John Millar’s Blue Hole, and Harbour Rocks), where the coral species used to grow before they were affected by mass mortalities. A control out-planting site was also established where the coral trees are currently located.
Coral Health
Bleaching - Ocean heatwave
Coral reefs in the Caribbean were exposed to high seawater temperatures at the end of July 2023, and bleaching was reported in several locations, especially in shallow areas of The Bahamas. Unfortunately, in mid-August the water temperature reached 33°C at several depths around Eleuthera, and corals that bleached in early August started to die. Extensive coral bleaching was also observed at the ocean-based nurseries—fragments from Elkhorn and Fused Staghorn coral died in less than two months. Healthy, pale, and bleached coral fragments were collected and moved to the land-based facilities at CEI, as a contingency plan to not lose all the genetic diversity from the nursery. The Hub’s wet lab water quality has been optimized and conditions are stable for coral growth. Fragments from Bimini, New Providence, Exuma and Eleuthera are currently growing in our land-based facility.
Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD)
SCTLD is a new disease that is quickly infecting and killing stony corals (corals that build hard skeletons). The new disease is one of the biggest threats to coral reefs because it is highly lethal and progresses rapidly, spreading through basic water circulation. Capable of killing a coral in a matter of weeks, SCTLD is highly contagious and affects over 20 different coral species throughout the Caribbean, including 4 endangered species. Since the disease started to spread in The Bahamas, our BCIH team has been checking the presence of the disease in Eleuthera and has been following the progression on specific species. As a mitigation strategy, the use of antibiotics has been implemented by our BCIH team, and, to date, they have treated 250 corals in South Eleuthera. After monitoring,
our team was able to observe the effectiveness of the treatment, as the disease stopped in treated corals and recovery began.
Growth after eight months of the same fragments from Acroporid species (staghorn, fused staghorn and elkhorn) at ocean-based nursery in South Eleuthera
Healthy staghorn corals (Acropora cervicornis) moved to land-based nursery
Sequence of photos of the same brain coral over the span of two months (top). Brain coral infected with SCTLD (bottom left) and treated with antibiotics (bottom right).
name
name
Staghorn coral
Acropora cervicornis
Fused staghorn coral
Acropora prolifera
Elkhorn coral
Acropora palmata
Growth after eight months
Monitoring - Outplanting sites and coral health status
In order to evaluate coral health, success of coral restoration efforts, and impact of diseases on restoration sites, monitoring is key. The use of tools like photomosaics allow reefs to be analyzed at different scales through high resolution maps made with photographs. Our BCIH team has been applying techniques developed by PIMS (led by Will Greene) and compiled in the Large Area Imaging (LAI) for Time-Series Coral Reef Monitoring Manual. On each restoration site, around 2,700 pictures have been taken and analyzed on a computer to extract relevant information, such as coral cover and, most importantly, coral health.
Coral Spawning
The Hub has been compiling coral spawning predictions for The Bahamas since 2020 based on previous and current observations. The predictions have identified peak dates for mass spawning. In early 2023, a booklet was made with examples of key Caribbean coral species spawning to help divers train their eyes to these stunning events.
Using larval propogation to restore resilient reefs
Coral reef decline has negatively impacted the ability of corals to produce viable offspring. The main goal of this project is to identify and breed heat-resistant corals that can survive climate change conditions. Sexually produced corals could improve resilience and connectivity, leading to positive impacts on long-term survival. Strategic research conducted through this project will lead to better understanding and identifying resilient corals that will thrive on reefs. In 2023, in the wake of the summer heat wave, gametes (coral eggs and sperm) from twelve bleached and pale colonies of Lobed Star Coral (Orbicella annularis) and Mountainous Star Coral (Orbicella faveolata) were collected, and their larvae were subsequently exposed to heat stress treatments in order to identify their resiliency. Coral larvae from the golf ball coral (Favia fragum) were collected in the lab and were also exposed to heat treatments.
NEW PROJECTS
Rearing long spined sea urchins as a step towards ecological restoration
Keystone species that helped healthy reefs thrive across the Caribbean were once abundant, but today their long-term survival is threatened unless successful active restoration is applied by assisting their recovery. The grazer long spined sea urchin (Diadema antillarum) is a critical herbivore, keeping algal growth manageable on reefs. However, this important species suffered a massive die-off in the early 1980s and the recovered population had another die-off in 2022. Our main goal will be to collect post-larval individuals (post-larvae), rear them in controlled conditions at land-based facilities, and release them onto local reefs once they become juveniles. Rearing long-spined sea urchins could alleviate the pressures wild populations face to reproduce and maintain healthy densities, and therefore influence a transition from current macroalgae-dominated local reefs back to the historically stony coral-dominated environment.
A number of materials have been identified as successful for use in creating collectors for post larval settlers i.e., aquarium egg crate dividers, bio balls, and frayed polyester rope. These materials have proven successful for collecting post larval D.antillarum settlers from previous studies. The collectors were deployed at three locations within close proximity to CEI, characterized by a high density of adult individuals. The collectors will be checked every month for post larval urchins and any settlers found will be brought back to the lab facilities at CEI.
UPCOMING PROJECTS
Improving outplanting techniques with sustainable materials
Successful coral restoration efforts utilize a nursery phase and, subsequently, an outplanting phase, where corals are returned to reefs in the hopes that they will continue to grow and eventually sexually reproduce. However, traditionally, this outplanting phase has used materials such as rebar, zip ties, and nails which in the longer term can prove to be unsustainable. One of the goals of the BCIH is to use sustainable materials, such as materials otherwise considered as waste that would otherwise be discarded, in order to improve outplanting techniques of staghorn coral. The objectives of this project are then: to identify sustainable materials and determine their effectiveness as alternative outplanting material and to identify the benthic succession on these materials to better understand their viability as outplanting materials.
Coral Reef in South Eleuthera seen at different scales
Bleached Lobed star coral releasing gamete bundles (top left), experimental setup to collect larvae from golf ball corals (top right), researcher Silia Woodside photographing coral juveniles in the coral lab at CEIS (bottom)
Long-spined
SHARKS OF THE BAHAMAS: A YEAR OF RESEARCH, CONSERVATION, AND EDUCATION
BY NATASCHA WOSNICK
On a global scale, the commercial fishing industry poses the most significant threat to elasmobranchs (sharks and rays). This industry has led to a substantial reduction in shark populations and a loss of genetic diversity, hastening the path to extinction. As a result, elasmobranchs are among the most threatened groups of vertebrates in the world. Currently, there are seventeen designated shark sanctuaries distributed worldwide. These sanctuaries serve as vital refugees where targeted or incidental shark fishing is strictly prohibited. This proactive measure helps alleviate the pressures that threaten these animals and provides them with a chance to recover. One noteworthy example is The Bahamas, which established itself as a Shark Sanctuary in 2011. Additional conservation measures, such as bans on longline fishing dating back to 1993,
have also played a pivotal role in shark conservation and maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem in this region. In places like The Bahamas, where sharks are afforded significant protection from fishing and its detrimental effects, promising opportunities arise for behavioral studies and investigations into other human-induced stressors.
In this context, The Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute resumed its Shark Research and Conservation Program in 2023, encompassing two overarching projects. These projects are dedicated to studying the behavioral and physiological aspects of coastal species inhabiting South Eleuthera. One of our current research projects is centered on gaining a comprehensive understanding of nurse shark behavior, with a focus on
two vital aspects. First, we investigate the behavior of adult nurse sharks in the context of intraspecific competition for food resources (Figure 1). By observing how these sharks interact and compete for sustenance in their natural environment, we aim to unravel the intricacies of their social dynamics, foraging strategies, and the impact of these interactions on individual fitness.
In our ongoing research project focused on nurse shark behaviors, we have uncovered several noteworthy findings. First and foremost, we have observed a distinct overall lack of competition among nurse sharks. More specifically, where there are fewer sharks and a more balanced sex ratio, the nurse sharks exhibit a more harmonious coexistence. However, an interesting sexbased pattern emerges, with increased competition observed among the males of the species, contrasted by lower competition among the females. Furthermore, we have documented intriguing behavior among younger nurse sharks, where they tend to stay closer to the ocean floor to avoid competition with larger sharks for food resources. This avoidance strategy, however, is not without exceptions, as some younger sharks occasionally display boldness by attempting to secure food for themselves.
Another critical facet of our research delves into the social behavior of juvenile nurse sharks. We seek to determine whether they exhibit social tendencies, such as forming connections with peers, and whether they demonstrate tolerance for physical proximity and large aggregations during their early stages of life. This investigation helps us elucidate whether these social behaviors are innate or develop as they grow, shedding light on the developmental aspects of nurse shark sociality.
Our findings suggest that social behaviors tied to aggregations do extend to neonate (or newborn) and juvenile nurse sharks as well. Remarkably, social preferences appear to be driven by affinities that transcend mere biological characteristics, particularly in scenarios where there is no age/size structure (Figure 2). An intriguing aspect is that young nurse sharks modify their social interactions when introduced to peers of similar age. This adjustment can lead them to form connections with unfamiliar sharks, potentially displacing the bonds they share with their familiar cohabitants. Significantly, during this life stage, nurse sharks exhibit a central social behavior known as “topping.” This behavior involves multiple sharks congregating in stacks, sustaining these formations for varying durations - ranging from brief episodes to more extended gatherings (Figure 3).
A critical element of effective conservation planning is unraveling the spatial dynamics that pertain to threatened species, with nurse sharks serving as an exemplary case. This involves understanding behaviors related to habitat utilization or avoidance, as well as the intricate interplay of individual choices and social dynamics that lead to the formation of aggregations. Notably, the formation of sizable shark aggregations can significantly influence the vulnerability of these species to various human-induced impacts, including targeted or incidental fishing, pollution, and habitat degradation. Thus, insights gained from these studies are essential for developing strategies that safeguard these species and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Figure 7. CEI intern Tuba Hamid taking body measurements from an adult nurse shark.
Figure 2. Social interactions between juvenile nurse sharks kept under human care.
Figure 3. Topping, one of the social behaviors that are being monitored in our study.
Figure 1. Dr. Natascha Wosnick working up a nurse shark in the field.
Another ongoing project aims to assess how pollution is affecting the health of sharks in Bahamian waters. Despite being safeguarded from commercial and recreational fisheries, sharks are not immune to the pervasive effects of pollution. Contaminants know no geographical or political boundaries, making these animals susceptible to chronic stressors, even when direct threats like fishing are absent. Chronic stressors encompass habitat degradation and marine pollution, which can silently afflict individuals. Our research is dedicated to assessing the repercussions of metals traditionally evaluated (for example, arsenic, cadmium, copper, and lead) and also technology-critical elements, such as titanium and rubidium in the blood samples of various shark species in South Eleuthera (Figure 4 and 5). These samples offer insights into recent exposure to potentially harmful elements. We will also examine markers related to organ function and overall health to determine any correlations between circulating contaminants and health issues in the exposed individuals. Additionally, we will investigate how circulating contaminants and health markers relate to factors such as species, life habits, body size, sex, and age (Figure 5).
In both of our projects, the CEI Shark Research and Conservation Program was fortunate to receive invaluable support from ten interns, with a notable mention of four who actively contributed to data collection and analysis: Kenneth McArtor, Meghan Oliver, Sophie Friesen, and Meg Langlais. Additionally, we benefited from the assistance of three Research Assistants, Alexa Hoffman and Alexis Saunders. A substantial 75% of our team members identify as women, emphasizing our dedication to empowering women in the world of shark conservation.
As we reflect on our accomplishments, we are truly humbled and grateful for the privilege of studying sharks
This project also represents the first partnership between CEI and one of the most important research centers in Latin America, the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz). Through a partnership with Dr. Rachel Ann HauserDavis, toxicological analyzes on shark blood samples will be carried out next year. To date, we have collected over 40 blood samples and body measurements of Atlantic nurse sharks, lemon sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and blacktip sharks (Figure 6 and 7). The significance of this study is multifaceted. Firstly, toxicology research aids in the conservation of threatened marine species by identifying the impact of pollutants and enabling the protection of their habitats. Secondly, it informs the development of conservation strategies by pinpointing pollution sources. Thirdly, it contributes to the establishment of monitoring programs and regulations, which protect marine animals and ecosystems. Fourthly, it raises public awareness about pollution’s effects and promotes conservation. Finally, it fosters international cooperation in marine animal protection through data sharing and coordinated strategies.
in The Bahamas, a place where these magnificent creatures are both essential to the marine ecosystem and a source of fascination for students and aspiring scientists alike. Our work extends beyond research; it’s about imparting the profound importance of shark conservation to the next generation. By educating and inspiring students, we are nurturing a future where these incredible animals continue to be cherished and studied. We remain deeply thankful for the opportunity to be stewards of this invaluable knowledge and to cultivate a passion for marine science among our students and interns who we hope will become the scientists and advocates our world needs to safeguard the future of sharks and our oceans.
Figure 4. A blood sample being taken from a juvenile lemon shark.
Figure 5. Following blood collection, the sample is promptly placed on ice and subsequently transported to the laboratory, where it undergoes centrifugation to separate the serum, which is then reserved for future toxicological and physiological analysis.
Throughout the year, our interns and research assistants were an integral part of our work. We are grateful for their dedication and appreciate their support on our projects!
BUILDING SPINY LOBSTER AQUACULTURE IN THE BAHAMAS
BY NICK HIGGS AND DENEÉ RANKINE
In recent years, spiny lobster farming has become established in Southeast Asia. Still, few such operations currently exist in the Caribbean. Spiny lobsters are an ideal aquaculture species because they naturally like to live in dense aggregations, don’t have complex dietary requirements, and are a high-value commodity. However, they have proved notoriously difficult to rear from eggs because of their complex larval cycle. In the past year, with the support of The Builders Initiative, we have dived into spiny lobster aquaculture at CEI. We are working on a successful approach to bypass the larval cycle and ensure we can cultivate lobsters at a young stage in order to establish an aquaculture model for the country.
Our approach has been to collect very early-stage lobsters, about the size of a thumbnail, from the wild and then grow them in our wet-lab facility. These
young lobsters suffer staggering levels of predation in the wild. It is estimated that only 3% (at best) survive the first year of their life! So, even if we took a few thousand from the wild for rearing in the safety of our lab, it is unlikely to have any impact on recruitment of young lobsters to the wild populations. We also plan to release a portion of the lobsters that we raise back into the wild to restock local reefs.
This work started with a collaboration between CEI and the University of Exeter in the UK, where former employee Michael Bowleg is undertaking his PhD in lobster aquaculture. Michael previously oversaw our aquaponics system and returned to CEI from 2021 to 22 as a visiting scientist for his doctoral research on spiny lobster aquaculture. The project gained prestigious support as one of only 11 projects funded globally through the United Nations Development
Program’s Ocean Innovation Challenge. This funding has allowed us to develop new genetic tools to analyze lobster populations across the Caribbean region that inform local fisheries management, while also working with local fishers to develop the potential for spiny lobster aquaculture as part of the ‘blue economy’ in The Bahamas.
These early efforts were furthered in 2023 with support from The Builders Initiative, which is the philanthropic arm of Builders Vision, an impact platform established by Lukas and Samantha Walton. They have funded a project to build new seed-stock collectors using locally sourced materials that eliminate plastic from our gear. These artificial ‘lobster-collectors’ are used to obtain tiny lobsters from the wild, but they are typically made with lots of plastic fibers. Instead, we are working with local artisans to source sisal fibers from agave plants and then pay them to build the collectors for us. We will then distribute the collectors to local fishers and pay them for the seed stock that they bring in. In this way, we hope to develop a local supply chain and new income stream for fishers and artisans in the community, while rapidly expanding the number of lobster stock we receive into our nursery facility.
The new support also provided funding to hire an additional full-time research scientist on the project. It was a pleasure to welcome Deneé Rankine back to The Island School in this role. Deneé is an Eleuthera native and Island School Semester alumna from Spring 2015. After her experience as a Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholar (BESS), she went on to study marine science at The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute. Following a brief period working in the private sector, Deneé is now spearheading this work alongside Dr. Nick Higgs. Together with Michael Bowleg and collaborators, the team has the first cohort of 40 lobsters growing in our nursery. These will be used to test a new design of sea cages to grow out the juveniles into 2024, all working to share this work with partners across The Bahamas.
THE BAHAMIAN STONE CRAB FISHERY
Throughout 2023, our stone crab fishery research, led by Dr. Eric Schneider, has been expanding through diverse efforts in the lab, in the field, and in the wider fishing community. We are excited to welcome back Research Scientist Erin Parker, who recently completed her Masters at the University of Aberdeen and helped run this work.
A critical aspect of fisheries management is collecting data on fishing effort, catch rates, and bycatch, and these data are needed to ensure that fishing regulations adequately balance fishery productivity with environmental protection. This data has not previously been collected for the Bahamian stone crab fishery, and through a new collaboration with Chris Symonette of No Stress Fishing Company in Eleuthera, we aim to begin to understand the scope and impact of this fishery. Chris runs a commercial stone crab boat, and through the 2023 fishing season we have ‘inventoried’ the catch from over 1,000 traps and tagged over 500 stone crabs to understand the survival and movement of harvested crabs, along with trap composition and any bycatch.
The stone crab fishery is unique in that it is a claw-only fishery, meaning fishers take only the claws and release the crab after harvest, rather than retaining the whole animal. This means there are a unique set of challenges for understanding the full impact of the fishery, and many of the potential indirect impacts have received little scientific attention. It is widely assumed that harvested crabs are more vulnerable to predation, but this has
not been previously studied. CEI’s wet lab is currently host to an experiment aimed at determining how claw loss affects stone crabs’ behavioral response to predators. The results of this study should give a clearer indication of whether crabs are more likely to be predated upon as a result of the fishery activity, which will help managers understand the effectiveness of current regulations and practices.
In collaboration with project co-lead Candice Brittain from the Perry Institute for Marine Science, the team has created various communication tools and hosted several fisher workshops around The Bahamas to disseminate findings and gather fisher input on an emerging stone crab claw removal technique. The new method, formally called induced autotomy, takes advantage of the crabs’ ability to drop (or autotomize) its own claw when injured. In a lab study at CEI, this increased survival rates of harvested crabs by nearly 30% over the traditional method of cracking or “clipping” the claw off. If implemented widely, induced autotomy could greatly improve the sustainability of the fishery. In collaboration with local fishers, the “Don’t clip the biter, stick it!” campaign was launched to encourage adoption of the new method.
FISH PHYSIOLOGY RESEARCH AT CEI: THE TMEP-LAB
Climate change is a global phenomenon that is having significant negative impacts on various marine species, populations, and ecosystems, and is threatening the health and productivity of marine environments and the livelihoods of those who depend on harvesting fish and invertebrates from the sea. However, we only have a limited understanding of the impact of climate change on tropical marine systems and animals (including species endemic to The Bahamas), as compared to those from temperate and polar regions, and how to protect and ensure the sustainability of these ecosystems.
This was the motivation for establishing the ‘Tropical Marine Ecophysiology Laboratory’ (TMEP-Lab) at The Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), which is being developed and funded as a collaborative effort between CEI and Memorial University of Newfoundland. Through significant enhancements, the labs now have the capacity to control environmental conditions (e.g., temperature and water oxygen levels) precisely to match those in the natural environment and are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment for monitoring the marine environment and conducting experiments on marine species.
In the past year, in addition to establishing the TMEP-lab, a significant amount of research has been conducted to understand variations in coastal ocean temperatures and oxygen levels and how important fish species respond to these changes.
1Using data loggers, we recorded diurnal (daily) and seasonal changes in water temperature at coastal patch reefs and in mangrove creeks and found that daily changes in oxygen (O2) levels track those in temperature due to high photosynthetic activity and respiration during the day and night, respectively. In fact, oxygen levels in local mangrove creeks were approx. 40% above normal levels during the heat of the day, and fell to only approx. 40% of normal values at night. Such changes in oxygen and temperature can have considerable effects on the physiology of marine fish species.
2
To our surprise, these high water oxygen levels did not improve the schoolmaster snapper’s heart function, metabolism, or upper thermal tolerance. These fish can already tolerate a mean water temperature of 40.3°C(F) at rest at normal water oxygen levels, and this temperature is only reduced by 1.4°C(F) (to 38.9°C) when they are forced to exercise maximally. These temperatures are above what this species is currently experiencing in the mangrove creeks, which suggests that they would not be impacted greatly by near-term climate change-related increases in temperature.
3
We have also measured the swimming and metabolic capacity of the Nassau grouper at 30°C(F) and 22°C(F); temperatures that represent the maximum and minimum temperatures that are observed at patch reefs in the vicinity of Cape Eleuthera. Overall, the maximum swimming capacity of the grouper is quite low/poor. This is not surprising given that it is a solitary ambush predator that lives in close proximity to patch reefs. However, it does migrate long distances in the winter to spawn, and its particularly poor swimming ability at cool temperatures means that this journey is a challenging one for The species. This research has just been accepted for publication in the journal Conservation Physiology.
Memorial University Ph.D. student Emma Porter has been a visiting scientist at CEI for the past year, and has instructed 3 Semester research classes on topics related to climate change and fish physiology using the TMEP-Lab facilities. These classes have given students a greater appreciation of scientific research and communication, the environmental challenges faced by tropical fishes, and aspects of physiology that determine their ability to survive and perform ecologically relevant functions.
A number of Memorial University graduate students and staff, as well as Island School staff and CEI scientists, have contributed greatly to what we have accomplished over the past year. We thank them for their efforts and look forward to many more enjoyable, and productive, years working at CEI at The Island School.
Emma performs cardiovascular surgery on a schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus).
The temperature (℃) and dissolved oxygen saturation (%) profiles recorded by five miniDOT ClearⓇ loggers deployed in Page Creek from October 6-11, 2022.
Nassau grouper (Epinephelus striatus) in a swim-tunnel respirometer to measure their cardiorespiratory physiology and maximum swimming capacity.
Island School Semester students from Fall 2022 that were involved in the Fish Physiology research class.
ISLAND SCHOOL’S AQUAPONICS TEAM ADVANCES SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE
In 2023, the aquaponics team at The Island School achieved significant milestones through innovative research and practical application, furthering the school’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and aquaculture practices. Alongside impressive production statistics, the team spearheaded two groundbreaking research projects that promise to revolutionize aquaponics systems and address relevant challenges in the Caribbean region.
The Spring Semester’s research focused on enhancing the aeration system of the aquaponics raceways to optimize plant growth. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, the team observed significant improvements in productivity. Building on these findings, modifications were made to all raceways within the system, resulting in enhanced overall productivity and efficiency.
However, the Fall Semester’s research truly captured attention and acclaim. Motivated by the need for sustainable aquaculture feed in the Caribbean, the team embarked on a quest to develop a locally sourced diet for tilapia. This ambitious undertaking
aimed to reduce dependence on imported feed and utilize readily available resources within the region.
Led by primary researcher Mia Avril and Research Assistant Megan Poulton, the team studied the utility of local ingredients for aquafeed formulation. Their findings were presented at the prestigious 34th West Indies Agricultural Economics Conference held in Nassau in June 2023, and garnered widespread interest and recognition.
The project reached new heights with the invaluable guidance of Dr. Juli Anne Russo from the Caribbean Aquaculture Network. Dr. Russo, a renowned specialist in fish health and nutrition, shared her expertise during her month-long collaboration with the team.
Together, the researchers and students successfully formulated a feed using a variety of locally-sourced waste streams, including fishery discards, brewery waste, and agricultural byproducts. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough not only for The Island School but also for the entire Caribbean region.
The implications of this milestone are profound, offering a sustainable solution to a pressing regional challenge while promoting circular economy principles and reducing environmental impact. Plans are already underway to further explore local inputs and refine the aquafeed formulation process, with the aim of maximizing sustainability and self-sufficiency in aquaculture practices.
The Island School’s aquaponics team models innovation and sustainable agriculture, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on research, and community engagement. Their efforts serve as a beacon of hope for a more resilient and sustainable future in the Caribbean and beyond.
Commercial aquafeed on the left and homemade feed on the right
Locally sourced aquafeed ingredients after being processed into a meal
Dr Russo teaching fish nutrition
MYCOMATERIALS INNOVATION IN 2023
In 2023, the Cape Eleuthera Institute’s Sustainable Materials Lab, under the research direction of Dorlan Curtis Jr., endeavored to establish a sustainable production system for compostable foodware and edible oyster mushrooms, while concurrently developing innovative mycelium-based biocomposites which utilizes waste cardboard as the primary substrate. Urban areas and Small Island Developing States (SIDS,) such as The Bahamas, experience challenges in waste management and low-to-declining agricultural productivity which directly contributes to its local food insecurity and sustainable development.
As the kingdom of fungi are considered primary decomposers that recycle organic waste into nutrients to sustain natural food webs, edible fungi (mushroom) cultivation has the potential to provide a direct food solution as they can be cultivated in low-tech conditions on readily available waste substrates such as cardboard available at The Island School. With this evolutionary trait of fungi, the byproducts of mushroom cultivation (mycelium-based biocomposites) presented the opportunity for our lab to co-create with nature to produce new bio-materials. This was achieved using principles of Growing Design and Material Driven Design (MDD) in which our research team grew novel materials from living fungi to design and create compostable consumer products. In the wake of the 2020 Plastic Ban in The Bahamas, there exists an emerging need for alternative materials to traditional forms of Styrofoam and plastic. From conducting preliminary material tests on these novel mycelium-based biocomposites, we discovered they possess similar and superior performance characteristics to Styrofoam—they are flame resistant, biodegradable and relatively strong. Our hope is that, by examining such materials, we can manipulate the natural evolution of fungi to explore the intersections of waste management, sustainable design, and food security as a model system for a green economy in The Bahamas.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2023 INCLUDE:
EDIBLE OYSTER MUSHROOM PRODUCTION
• Successfully developed and implemented a controlled cultivation process for edible oyster mushrooms using waste cardboard, generated at The Island School, as a substrate.
• Achieved a consistent weekly yield of 15 pounds of edible white oyster mushrooms as a non-meat protein source for The Island School’s dining hall.
• Conducted optimization experiments to enhance production efficiency and minimize environmental impact of food production
BIOCOMPOSITES
FROM MYCELIUM
• Pioneered the development of bio-composites using mycelium as a binding agent, derived from sustainable sources.
• Produced prototypes of mycelium-based biocomposites with desirable properties for various applications
• Conducted material testing to assess the strength, durability, and eco-friendliness of the biocomposites in comparison to traditional materials such as pressure treated wood, styrofoam and PET plastic.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY IMPACT
• Demonstrated the feasibility of utilizing waste cardboard as a valuable resource for mushroom cultivation and compostable foodware, thereby diverting significant amounts of paper waste from our compost system to a value-added system of food and materials
• Established a closed-loop system where the byproducts of mushroom cultivation were integrated into the production of bio-composites, contributing to a circular design which can be further modeled for local sustainable development and Green Economy
COMPOSTABLE FOODWARE
• Established a design and production system for handmade paper plates produced at The Island School for compostable foodware options at The Island School’s dining hall
• Created and developed experiential learning opportunities for the art and science of papermaking as a sustainable approach to integrated waste management
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
• Contributed to the academic and scientific community by publishing research findings and methodologies related to sustainable mushroom cultivation and mycelium-based biocomposites.
• Collaborated with industry partners, fostering innovation in sustainable materials and contributing to the lab’s reputation as a leader in the field.
• Addressed challenges faced during the implementation of the project, including finetuning cultivation parameters, optimizing resource utilization, and exploring additional waste streams for potential integration.
• Provided recommendations for future research and development to further enhance production efficiency, explore new applications for the sustainable materials, and scale the project for broader impact.
The CEI Sustainable Materials Lab has made significant strides in achieving its goal of producing 15 pounds of edible oyster mushrooms weekly from waste cardboard, while concurrently developing innovative myceliumbased bio-composites. The success of this project highlights the lab’s commitment to sustainability, circular economy principles, and pioneering advancements in eco-friendly materials. The outcomes of this initiative contribute to a more sustainable future by demonstrating the practical application of sustainable practices in materials science.
FOOD PRODUCTION STATS
Food security is an important part of our work at CEI. As a model community, we not only teach about sustainable food production, but use our facilities to produce food for the community.
AQUAPONICS PRODUCTION 2023
LETTUCE PRODUCTION
TILAPIA PRODUCTION
CROP PRODUCTION
CEI FARM PRODUCTION 2023
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN THE COMMUNITY
Research, Innovation, and Education are central to The Island School. Through research and innovation, CEI aids The Island School in understanding how to live well in a place and how we can live more sustainably and conserve our natural resources. Education allows us to share our research and innovation, helping students and adults connect with the environment, connect with one another, and inspire positive changes in our communities and the world.
HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2023:
Provided 2 SUMMER APPRENTICESHIPS to LOCAL HIGHSCHOOL STUDENTS in agriculture and shark research.
Provided RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS to 20 EARLY CAREER SCIENTISTS, over half of which received scholarships, including 2 Bahamian students.
Our scientists led 14 RESEARCH CLASS PROJECTS , engaging OVER 100 HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS in our Semester Program, conducting hands-on real world research.
Students from 33 VISITING SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES participated in research and conservation activities with our scientists, including 3 Bahamian schools.
Provided 3 WEEKS OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING to MORE THAN 45 LOCAL STUDENTS at the Deep Creek Middle School through our SCHOOL WITHOUT WALLS PROGRAM .
Worked with fishers to IMPROVE STONE CRAB HARVEST METHODS in The Bahamas, training 35 FISHERS and 15 GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS during 5 WORKSHOPS across 4 Bahamian Islands.
Engaged LOCAL STUDENTS
participating in the SOUTH ELEUTHERA KIDS CAMP and the GIRL RISING programs.
Taught the AWARE CORAL REEF CONSERVATION COURSE to 12 BAHAMIAN STUDENTS and CERTIFIED 17 STUDENTS AS REEF RESCUE DIVERS , including 8 Bahamians.
Spoke with OVER 30 COMMUNITY MEMBERS in Eleuthera and Nassau to document the importance of fisheries for communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Undertook education workshops with community groups and schools in Eleuthera about the POTENTIAL OF AQUACULTURE in The Bahamas, as well as TRAINING 3 FISHERS TO TRIAL NEW TECHNIQUES.
OUR STAFF
None of the work presented here would happen without the hard work of our scientists, engineers, research assistants, technicians and interns. Working in project teams to deliver our mission, often going above and beyond, they are the engines of innovation at The Island School. Thank you to everyone who worked with us in 2023.
RESEARCH ASSISTANTS & TECHNICIANS INTERNS & APPRENTICES
Amy Brooks
Hayden Goldspink
Alexa Hoffman
David Iyileh
Julia Kichorowsky
Peter Malorey
Nick Nonnenmacher
Megan Poulton
Alexis Saunders
Lucia Yannuzzi
Emma
Kurt Gamperl, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Juli Natti, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Michael Bowleg, University of Exeter
Rob Ellis, University of Exeter
Aniek Kroezen, Wageningen University & Research
Imogen Napper, University of Plymouth
Kristen Bakkegard, Samford University
Meghan Oliver
Sophia Friesen
Phoebe Seely
Xinya Calhouon
Lauren Dungan
Madeira Lowe
Kenneth McArtor
Victoria Campbell
Antonia Ferguson
Julia Beitel
Caitlyn Reid
Tuba Hamid
Jerry Valeeriahd
Breonna Accius
Aqilah Ali
Leighton Graham
Lulu Blau
Taylor Cargill
Sydney Saunders
Meg Langlais
Dr. Nick Higgs, PhD Director of Research & Innovation
RESEARCH & INNOVATION STAFF
Dorlan Curtis Asst. Director of Research & Innovation
Eric Schneider, PhD Senior Research Scientist & Lab Manager
Patricia Thompson Farm & Landscape Manager
Mia Avril Systems EngineerAquaponics
Bronwyn Esterhuizen Research ScientistPermaculture
Natascha Wosnick PhD Research ScientistShark Conservation
Natalia Hurtado Research ScientistCoral Restoration
Reanna Jeanes Research ScientistCoral Restoration
Deneé Rankine Research ScientistAquaculture
Erin Parker Research ScientistSustainable Fisheries
Silia Woodside Jr. Research ScientistCoral Restoration
Elidieu Joseph Farm Technician
Johny Alexis Landscape Technician
Vincent Louisius Landscape Technician
VISITING SCIENTISTS
Porter, Memorial University of Newfoundland
ISLAND INSIGHTS: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 76TH GULF AND CARIBBEAN FISHERIES INSTITUTE CONFERENCE IN THE BAHAMAS
BY NATASCHA WOSNICK
In November 2023, The Bahamas proudly hosted the 76th edition of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute conference, a globally acclaimed scientific gathering that convenes annually to foster collaboration among researchers, decisionmakers, fishers, and other stakeholders in marine and estuarine science and natural resource management and conservation. This year’s event, a collaborative effort between the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute and the Bahamian government, unfolded at the prestigious Atlantis Hotel in Nassau. Given the significance of research undertaken by The Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) pertaining to sustainable use and conservation of marine resources, a large team of research staff gathered to share our work. Our presence not only showcased the ongoing studies at CEI but also underscored Eleuthera’s prominent role as one of the foremost contributors to marine research and conservation in The Bahamas. Eleven staff, including current research staff, collaborators, and visiting scientists, presented a diverse array of research spanning from sustainable strategies for harvesting spiny lobster and stone crabs to coral restoration, examining the effects of climate
CEI
Alexa Hoffman, BSc. Sillia Woodside, Dr. Nick Higgs, Ph.D. candidate Natalia Hurtado and Ph.D. candidate Michael Bowleg.
change on native fish populations, and contributing to shark and ray conservation.
This conference served as a unique platform for CEI to expand its collaborative network, forge connections with fellow researchers and decision-makers from The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, and disseminate the latest research findings nurtured through support from the Bahamian government, local fishers, the Eleuthera community, donors, and Semester students at The Island School. Notably, the Prime Minister of The Bahamas recognized CEI as an essential center for research in the country. In addition, our partner and visiting scientist, Ph.D. candidate Emma Porter from the Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada), earned the esteemed 2023 Outstanding Achievement
Award for her research project developed in partnership with CEI. Emma’s research studies the effects of climate change and ocean temperatures on fish at the Gambrel Lab at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, one of the foremost fish physiology labs in the region.
The conference was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the science and research taking place in The Bahamas and The Island School was thrilled to represent Eleuthera and share the amazing work taking place right here on our island!
Choosing The Bahamas as the conference venue not only provided an exceptional backdrop for international researchers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the islands, experience the warmth of the Bahamian people, and learn about the Bahamian culture but also solidified The Bahamas’ status as a pivotal member state of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute. The event laid the groundwork for future collaborations, poised to further elevate The Bahamas in the international research arena focused on sustainable marine resource utilization and conservation.
This year has been exceptionally busy and rewarding for the CEI team. We feel privileged to have represented Eleuthera through various channels such as scientific publications, newspaper articles, interviews, and active participation in scientific conferences. It is truly an honor for our entire team to contribute to the positive recognition of Eleuthera in the scientific community.
Last but not least, as we approach the culmination of another year, the CEI extends warm wishes to all readers of our column for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We express our gratitude for your unwavering support and anticipate engaging more Eleuthera residents in the coming year. The CEI is committed to bringing you more exciting news and advancements in the field of marine research, and we eagerly look forward to sharing our progress with you in the upcoming year!
Figure.
Research Team at the 76th GCFI conference. From left to right: Dr. Kurt Gamperl, Dr. Eric Schneider, Ph.D. candidate Emma Porter, BSc. Denné Rankine, Dr. Natascha Wosnick, BSc.
Figure. Prime Minister of The Bahamas, The Honourable Philip E.B. Davis, delivering a compelling speech at the opening ceremony of the event.
2023 PUBLICATIONS
E S Porter, A K Gamperl (2023) Seasonal temperatures in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas, have considerable impacts on the cardiorespiratory function and swimming performance of Nassau grouper (Epinephelus striatus). Conservation Physiology, 11(1):coad086.
Eric V. C. Schneider, Brendan S. Talwar, Shaun S. Killen, Samantha Russell, Travis E. Van Leeuwen, David M. Bailey (2023) Colonization, diversity, and seasonality of fishes at pelagic fish aggregating devices. Journal of Fish Biology.
Sarah M. Luongo, Eric V. C. Schneider, Alastair R. Harborne, Steven T. Kessel, Yannis P. Papastamatiou (2023). Habitat-specific impacts of climate change on the trophic demand of a marine predator. Ecology.
Elvidge CK, Brittain C, Szekeres P, Thomas C and Cooke SJ (2023) A field test of the “graveyard hypothesis” reveals avoidance of chemical but not visual cues in Bahamian queen conch (Aliger gigas). Behavioural Processes, 210:104914.
Zeinert LR, Adams A, Burchell M, Robinson N and McGaw IJ (2023) Population Structure and Size at Maturity of the Caribbean Spider Crab, Maguimithrax spinosissimus, around Eleuthera, The Bahamas. Caribbean Naturalist, 91.
Constant N, Bolten A.B, Johnson R.A, Brooks A.M.L, Bjorndal K.A (2023) Dynamics and aging of green turtle grazing plots at two Caribbean seagrass meadows. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 705:109-125.
Simpfendorfer, C.A., Heithaus, M.R., … Brooks, E.J. et al. (2023) Widespread diversity deficits of coral reef sharks and rays. Science: 380(6650), pp.1155-1160.
Schneider, E.V., Zuckerman, Z.C., Talwar, B.S., Cooke, S.J., Schultz, A.D. and Suski, C.D. (2023) Aerobic response to thermal stress across ontogeny and habitats in a teleost fish. Journal of Fish Biology: [online first]
Mills, S. K., Rotger, A., Brooks, A. M., Paladino, F. V., & Robinson, N. J. (2023) Photo identification for sea turtles: Flipper scales more accurate than head scales using APHIS. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology: 566, 151923.
Watkins, H.V., Munger, R.B. and Côté, I.M. (2023) Effects of sea cucumber fishing on tropical seagrass productivity. Ecosphere, 14(5), p.e4543.
Talwar, B.S., Bond, M.E., Williams, S., Brooks, E.J., Chapman, D.D., Howey, L.A., Knotek, R. and Gelsleichter, J.(2023) Reproductive timing and putative mating behavior of the oceanic whitetip shark Carcharhinus longimanus in the eastern Bahamas. Endangered Species Research: 50, pp.181-194.
