Union Island’s coral reefs are a type of reef that I never believed that I would have the opportunity see and experience. They are traditional Caribbean coral reefs, but they were not like the Florida Key’s reefs at all – they felt way more alive. The beauty of the reef was breathtaking during my first dive here, and it continued to be breathtaking for the next two weeks. Every time I back-rolled off the boat and into the waters surrounding Union, I was excited for what I was see and experience that day on the reef. The ecosystems that surround this island are amazing extensive and beautiful. The abundance and diversity of fish and coral species is unlike anything I have ever seen. I have never seen more types of parrotfish in one place – and being here proved to me that they are my favorites to see. On the reefs, we also encountered eagle rays, nurse sharks, and even a few species of sea turtles. The experience of diving on these reefs for two weeks has helped my passion for preserving and protecting these ecosystems grow more than I could’ve ever imagined. The pictures attached are just a few of my favorites that I was able to capture these last two weeks. Overall, I am overjoyed with the opportunity that I had here on Union Island and getting to dive in their reefs
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AuthorsThe authors of this blog are students enrolled in Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation, field courses run in the Caribbean by the University of South Florida. During these courses, students learn scientific diving techniques over a 10-14 day period and carry out research and monitoring of coral reefs at various sites. Many of these courses are done in partnership with local environmental organizations, like the Union Island Environmental Alliance and the Soufriere Marine Management Association. In this blog, students will document their activities and how they relate to course material. Archives
June 2023
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