On my trip to Union Island I learned that this small island hosts one of the Caribbean’s top biodiversity areas. Chatham Bay is located on the western side of the island, in the water, one can find an amazing array of tropical fish and corals. On land, steep hills covered by dry forests are home to two species of endemic reptiles. Endemic species are defined as species which are geographically limited to one particular place and cannot be found naturally anywhere else in the world. On our trip we set out on a hike with Union’s Forest Preserve Wardens to see the critically endangered Union Island Gecko. Along the way, we were also lucky enough to see a Pink Rhino Iguana, Union’s second endemic reptile. The Union Gecko’s jewel-toned scales and its rarity has made it a coveted prize in reptile trade, and, as a result, it is now facing extinction in the wild. The Union Island Environmental Alliance is working diligently to protect the Chatham Bay area from development and poaching of native species. The wardens that lead our hike were kind enough to capture a gecko in advance so that we had the opportunity to see one if our hike was unsuccessful. The conservation efforts of the Alliance and its wardens is not only vital to the survival of Union Island’s endemic species but to the island’s human inhabitants as well. The two towns on Union Island are heavily dependent on tourism as a source of income. If the island were to lose its picturesque views, coral reefs, and other visitor-drawing qualities, those who live here would find it difficult to support themselves. In addition, many locals use the land and sea as their primary sources of food. If these areas are not conserved, they will be decimated by over harvesting and locals could face a food crisis. I consider myself lucky to have been able to see not only Union’s stunning views, but also its unique biodiversity in the water and on land!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
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
Categories |