Investigating the use of eDNA to locate fish spawning aggregations: Our flagship project investigated the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) as a sampling method to locate fish spawning aggregations. We collected seawater and sediment samples from established spawning sites, extracting DNA to identify our target fish species. While our findings successfully detected the presence of our focal fish species, employing divers alongside traditional ecological knowledge shared by fishers remains among the most effective methods for discovering new aggregations. Through this project, we identified two new spawning aggregations sites - one for Nassau grouper and one for mutton snapper. For further insights, we invite you to view our documentary video on this project. Completed 2022. Funded by NOAA SK. Publication.

Bioacoustics/ AS-RUV/ S-RUV: We employ specialized equipment in several projects to detect our target species. Bioacoustics, specifically passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) using hydrophones, enables us to listen for courtship sounds of certain grouper species during spawning. Additionally, remote underwater video—either coupled with acoustics (AS-RUV) or alongside divers (S-RUV)—provides stereo footage of confirmed or suspected spawning aggregations. This technology allows us to gather crucial data on fish size and abundance, facilitating biomass estimates that are valuable for fisheries management purposes. Ongoing. Funded by various entities including NMFS, CRCP and CFMC.

Parrotfish spawning aggregations in the Caribbean:  A brief review of historic and recent observations: This project focused on the spawning behaviors of parrotfishes in the Caribbean and their implications for fisheries management. The Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission's Spawning Aggregation Working Group reviewed the significance of parrotfishes to fisheries and identified the need for more information on their spawning aggregations. The Caribbean Fishery Management Council commissioned our review to document historic and recent observations of these aggregations. The report highlights the importance of considering parrotfish, particularly Sp. rubripinne, in future fishery management plans due to their predictable spawning sites and the increased fishing pressure following the decline of groupers. Completed 2021. Funded by CFMC. Final Report.

Parrotfishes in the Caribbean, A regional review with recommendations for management: The project focused on the ecological and commercial significance of parrotfishes in the Caribbean, addressing their role in coral reef ecosystems and their economic importance for local communities. The Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) funded this review to understand the exploitation of these fishes, aiming to improve regional fisheries management. Responses from 37 Caribbean countries indicated that while many have regulations to protect parrotfishes, data collection on landings is inconsistent. The project underscores the need for cohesive regional strategies, long-term monitoring, and community involvement to ensure sustainable management and protection of parrotfish populations. Completed 2021. Funded by CFMC. Final FAO Report.

Analysis of the long-term mark/recapture study with Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) in the Boquerón Wildlife Refuge: The Boquerón Wildlife Refuge hosted a nine-year mark/recapture study involving the recreationally important Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) that aimed to provide insight into the use of the impoundment by juvenile and adult tarpon. The mark/recapture data were analyzed to address questions of movement and connectivity among areas within the refuge and between the refuge and outside areas, population size, growth, and mortality, potentially including seasonal impacts. Overall, the mortality and growth analyses together reveal the same story – the conditions in the refuge are stressful for tarpon. Completed 2021. Funded by DNER. Final Report.

Shark Watch: evaluating the significance of coral reef sharks in the Puerto Rican fishery with an emphasis on the management of Nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum): The three-year study focused on shark populations off southwestern Puerto Rico, particularly nurse and Caribbean reef sharks. Nurse sharks were the most frequently observed in 36% of sampled sites, with Caribbean reef sharks in 15%, though many sharks were unidentified. The mark-recapture method for estimating nurse shark populations was insufficient due to low resighting rates, leading to a habitat-based estimate of 5,238 to 6,602 adult nurse sharks. Drone and BRUV surveys indicated that sharks use a broader area than initially thought. Genetic analysis of 100 shark meat samples revealed nine species, with Tiger and Caribbean reef sharks being most common; five of these species are protected under US regulations, suggesting possible fishing violations. Public perceptions of sharks were generally negative, particularly among fishers. Despite the widespread availability of shark meat, it is not favored in restaurants and is mostly sourced incidentally. The study highlights the need for extended monitoring and better management practices to protect shark populations in the region. Completed 2023. Funded by Sportfish Restoration Foundation, DNER. Publication.