An array of exceptionally diverse marine ecosystems makes the Caribbean a biodiversity hotspot. As well as thousands of islands, islets, bays and cays, the region is home to more than 10 per cent of the world’s coral reefs. The waters of the Caribbean Sea host large, migratory schools of fish, turtles, whales, and many other species.
But its ecosystems are often fragile and increasingly threatened with rising sea temperatures. As well as the environmental impact, habitats supported by coral reefs are critical to activities like fishing and diving, which drive the tourism that underpins the economies of most Caribbean nations. A region that also attracts a large amount of shipping, the Caribbean Sea is the second most polluted sea in the world, behind only the Mediterranean.
Blue Marine’s ocean protection initiatives here include surveying and mapping conch distribution, establishing safe pathways to prevent ships striking whales, as well as schemes to safeguard manatees and whale sharks.
Caribbean countries where we run projects include the islands of the Dutch Caribbean, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, the Dominican Republic, and Barbados. We also support conservation work in waters under the jurisdiction of the mainland nations of Panama and Costa Rica.
Discover the full stories behind Blue Marine’s work in this often dazzling part of the world by reading our individual reports on each project.
