Changing Seas

Dr. Denise Herzing has dedicated her career to studying the wild Atlantic spotted dolphins that live in the shallow waters of the Bahamas. Through non-invasive observation, she researches the animals’ social structure, behaviors and communication. Now modern technology is making it possible to correlate the dolphins’ sounds and behavior, bringing experts closer to decoding dolphin communication.

Right under the noses of thousands of scuba divers, a potential new threat appeared on the Vandenberg wreck. It is not surprising that it went unnoticed, since it is the width of a pencil eraser, barely the length of your finger, and perfectly camouflaged. Thankfully, one expert spotted it and immediately knew it didn’t belong. It turns out it was a new species: the Vandy worm-snail.

While American crocodiles are recovering in parts of their range, their future looks bleak in Jamaica. Habitat loss and poaching for meat have led to a drastic decline in the population. Dedicated scientists and conservationists are working to save the species through research, education, and conservation initiatives.

Flats fishing is popular with recreational anglers in the Caribbean and the Florida Keys. But until recently, little was known about tarpon, bonefish and permit – the species most coveted by sports fishermen. Now scientists are studying the fish to better understand their movements, habitat, and spawning behaviors.