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Sea Urchins Save the ReefsSaving the Reefs of the Caribbean may be simpler than we thought! Recent discoveries made by researchers at the University of Miami reveal that the Diadema antillarum is essential to the comeback of coral reefs! Better known as spiny sea urchins, these prickly critters are the primary consumers of algae that has overgrown the coral reefs. El Nino wiped out most of what was left of the urchin population after a vicious and unidentified disease nearly obliterated them in the 80s. Their comeback has been hindered and needs our help. The members of the Bahamas Diving Association have launched a Diadema Re-location Project that is taking off swiftly! Under the guidance of Bruce Purdy, President of Blackbeards Cruises, members of the BDA are relocating sea urchins from rubble sites (broken down coral in shallows) to reefs. The sea urchins are voracious consumers of algae. These are the same algae that have robbed the coral of much needed sunlight and nutrients. Coral and Diadema polyps both need to adhere to algae-free surfaces to grow. Test sites have experienced significant reduction in algae. Bahamas Dive Association Land Based and Live aboard Operators are sponsoring Re-location Events throughout the Bahamas. Collection is done on foot, on snorkel and on Scuba. Plan a trip that gives you pleasure with a purpose. Eco-minded travelers interested in more details should call 800.327.9600 or email diadema@blackbeard-cruises.com Edited by Dave Shultz |
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