Arrival in the Bahamas

Greetings Students, Parents, Teachers, Friends, and Family,
Five of us teacher – researchers are huddled around our laptops under the stars on the island of San Salvador, sharing photos, stories, and skills. And so I begin my first blog entry on location with Earthwatch’s “Bahamian Reef Survey.” Thanks for coming along on the journey with me!

First, a little pre-expedition exploring was enjoyed on neighboring Cat Island. You can see the common mode of transport to these Outer Islands – small planes are lots of fun. On Cat Island I enjoyed snorkeling several different reefs and went scuba diving off this boat to see the corals and fish down to about 80 feet. It was really exciting down there, especially descending down the “wall” of the outer reef.
The water is about 71 degrees F., so I’m glad to have a wetsuit!

Both Cat and San Salvador Islands are relatively undeveloped, so the coral reefs should be in good shape. However, back in the late 1980’s, a disease killed most of the elkhorn coral, the main coral species. Now you see most of these dead corals covered in marine algae (plants), with some hard and soft corals, and sponges, taking hold. The fish populations vary by location, wave action, etc. I like to free dive and peer under the ledges for the big fish that like to hide there.

In between Cat Island and San Salvador Island, I spent a night in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. Here are a few photos to give you the flavor – the policeman who protects the lives of pedestrians, the inventive toy vendor in the crafts market (you’ll see what he made when I return), local girls selling conch shells. After the bustle I’m glad to be back on an Outer Island, falling asleep to the sound of waves and crickets.

Our first couple of days here our team has been snorkeling several reefs to learn the types of “cover” that we will be documenting in our sampling for the next couple of days. We go to which ever side of the island has the calmest, clearest water (a northerly front went through yesterday). This afternoon I must have learned a dozen coral types, sponges, algae, and seen at least 30 different species of fish, including a big ol’ barracuda. Stay tuned for some pictures of these wonders of the sea in future blog entries. I’m sure that you’ll grow to love them as much as I do!

My challenge question for you to discuss with your classmates, family, and/or friends: what are corals? What role do they play in the biodiversity (the variety of different life forms) of the oceans? If you could snorkel with me, what would you be looking for?

I also welcome you to send your questions and comments to me! I will do my best to find out the answers in the field, from the scientists, or in the library. Fortunately, I can also go online, although our connections here are very slow and limited in time. (which may be why I can’t get to answering every question right away). Please write to me in the blog comment box, and don’t forget to sign your name!


My warm regards, Ann Brown; Live From the Field