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Hello! We are team Patch! On this research project we are looking at the spatial and temporal abundance of fish species in Eleuthera, here in the Bahamas. Patch reefs are transitional juvenile habitats for fish after their early life in mangroves. One of the main reasons we are conducting this research, is to see if it is necessary that an MPA be established near Cape Eleuthera, based upon the fish population and habitat trends in the area. We hypothesize that patch reefs will have a higher fish biomass the closer they are to mangroves, there will be an increase in lionfish (an invasive species), and that in general the fish populations will be similar to past years because there has been little change in fishing regulations. Over the past month or so we have been learning all about patch reefs and their inhabitants. When we go out in the field we count the number of different fish species. Nathaniel and Maggie are in charge of parrotfish, wrasse, stingrays, and sharks and Sam, Lanti, and Korinna are in charge of angelfish, butterfly fish, surgeonfish, squirrelfish, groupers, and lionfish. We count and size the fish in our specific group as well as taking other measurements of the reef. We photograph the algae vs. coral coverage and measure length, width, depth, and rugosity (which is a measure of how complex the coral structure is).

We all have been having a great time out snorkeling in the sea, and are all experts at identifying fish. We can’t wait to see the results of our study and present our information at Parents’ Weekend and the Research Symposium later in the year!

South Eleuthera’s state of fishing is in distress. Nassau grouper, lobster and conch – the ‘Holy Trinity’, along with an array of other ecologically important species are experiencing increased fishing pressure. With the economically depressed state of south Eleuthera, people are dependent on marine resources more than ever.

In order to help rejuvenate depleted species within the sea, Marine Protected Areas, better known as MPAs, are a viable option. Within a MPA, restrictions vary from no-take zones where fishing is prohibited to bans specific to recreation or fishing techniques. MPAs not only benefit the protected areas, but spillovers of larvae and adult organisms bolster neighboring reefs as well. From 2004 to now, The Island School Patch Reef Program has been on the front line of marine research. As a squad, the Fall 2011 Patch Reef class has been fighting currents, tides and the elements to gain as much insight into the ecological significance of the patch reefs. With an ever growing knowledge of fish species, the squad is prepared to assess species abundance and richness. Additionally, we determine rugosity, depth, length and width of the reef, as well as isolating a certain quadrat through the use of an underwater GoPro Hero 5000XL (a camera). Each class brings a new adventure, and with mask, fins and snorkel, we progress ever further down the road of conservation in south Eleuthera.