How Ecotourism in CUBA Cuba is the largest island by blue skies, lush green four times as many plant TO BECOME AN ECO-TOURIST in the Caribbean, a well pre- forests, and a symphony of species as Jamaica and al- served tropical ecosystem, mingling accents, most 12 times as many as home of a wide biodiversity. chatter, and island rhythms. Puerto Rico. Recent biolog- Travel can be much more el choices, you can have a Many areas in this fasci- Cuba supports a range of ical surveys show that 40 than simply visiting places, unique trip and avoid leav- nating country are popular rich ecosystems, some is- percent of species of mac- taking pictures and buy- ing negative marks on cul- ecotourism destinations, lands and archipelagos re- ro-fauna (, including ing souvenirs. We are here tures, economies, and the offering a unique range of main largely unspoiled and insects, reptiles, and am- to help you make positive environment, while mak- cultural experiences, eco- waiting to be discovered, phibians, visible to the na- contributions to conserva- ing a positive impact on friendly accommodations, explored and protected ked eye) that they encoun- tion and communities while the people and places you adventure opportunities, Cuba has no real winter tered are endemic species. on vacation. visit. On your next trip, be and community based period, and the sun shines More than 50% of the most sure to take with you these tours. The region’s abun- here throughout the year. important ecosystems and When executed mindfully, tips on Do’s and Dont’s to dance of flora and fauna, With over 12 hours of sun- 55 % of the endemic spe- and with the minimum im- maximize your opportunity as well as the diverse land- shine a day, the sun rises cies of Caribbean islands pact, travel can inspire cul- to make a difference while scapes including tropical at about 6 am and sets at are found in Cuba. Cuban tural awareness, tolerance, on vacation. rain forests and protect- about 6 pm consistently marine and coastal ecosys- and commitment to envi- ed marine parks, provide throughout the year. tems are particularly out- ronmental responsibility. unique wildlife encounters, standing – more than 95 % Your journey to becoming and great opportunities for There is no question at all of its shelf is fringed by coral an eco-tourist starts with learning about and experi- that, in relation to the num- reefs, sea grass beds cover an awareness that as a vi- encing examples of effec- ber of species and species half of the Cuban shelf and tal part of the global tour- tive parks and protected only found in the country mangroves represent one ism industry, you, the trav- areas management prac- (endemic species), Cuba fifth of Cuban forests. eler, have the power to help tices. is the single most important transform the way the world Daydreaming of Cuba typi- island in the New World, travels. cally leads to images of be- comprises more than one- ing enveloped in crystalline, third of the land area in the By exploring alternative trav- azure waters, surrounded Caribbean, boasts nearly 2 3 JARDINES DE LA REINA DREAMED DESTINATION FOR ECO-TOURISTS

Named by Christopher Columbus in one The archipelago and its near-twin, Florida’s of his trips around the island and dedicat- Everglades, share many of the same plant ed to Her Majesty Isabel of Castile, this is- species like sea grass and mangroves land group was populated by the Cubans and coral reefs flora and fauna. However, indigenous, which the Admiral called Cays Jardines de la Reina is unique. There has Indians. On the 1960’s they were frequent- been reported 7 new species for science ed by pirates and privateers and helped of marine mollusks and around 20 new pass the human trade in African slaves. It species reported for Cuba (fish, gorgoni- was also a place of temporary residence ans, algae, echinoderms and annelids). of escaped African slaves from the plan- Jardines de la Reina marine environment tations of coffee and sugar cane. Since host the most mature food web of the Ca- the late nineteenth century until the 60 ribbean and similar to the best preserved twentieth-century Queen’s Gardens were communities of the Central Pacific with inhabited by fishing families. After the Tri- high biomass of top predators like sharks, umph of Cuban Revolution, people were large groupers and snappers. Its coral reef leaving the place to enjoy the social and fish are the species richest, the densest economic benefits of the revolutionary and of the highest biomass of Cuba and process and thus the Jardines de la Reina of the islands of the Caribbean. Jardines were depopulated and only used for fish- de la Reina shows the largest population ing and forestry. Of the inhabitants born in of Goliath grouper among the Caribbean the Jardines de la Reina or periods of time islands with SCUBA divers sightings every lived in them, some now living in coastal week and it is the most important nest- communities, which constitute a valuable ing area of hawks bill turtle in Cuba. This historical source. archipelago has shown resilience of sea grass and corals before hurricane and re- The Archipelago of “Jardines de La Reina” peated bleaching and a strong recovery comprises the whole set of islands, keys, Long-spine black sea urchin in reef crests. islets and banks located south the Gulf of All these make Jardines de la Reina one of Ana Maria at the southeastern section of the best diving and game fishing (100 % the Cuban shelf. This system is located catch and release mainly for bonefish, tar- between the 21 08.101’ N; 079 27.700’ W pon and permit) destinations in the world and 20 30.479’N; 078 19.955’ W, and has when compared with other 50 places. In a longitude of 74km approximately. addition, this marine park acts as a critical refuge for North American migrating This marine park is probably the most im- along the route through Florida and the Cuban Marine Parks portant group of islands in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico to South America. This is integrated for one million-acre wetlands, wildlife sanctuary that hosts more than 68 one of the largest in the West Indies, locat- species of migratory birds. In the migra- ed at about 200 miles southeast of Havana. tory season, the birds are really incred- 4 5 ible. There are just clouds of them. Of the 22 species of birds endemic to Cuba, three can be found here only. There are one species/ genus (Cuban Green ) and four subspecies of birds exclusive of Jardines de la Reina.

This is one of the most important marine and coastal wildlife areas of the Caribbean, con- taining many species of algae, sea grasses, hydro corals, gorgonians, stony corals, black corals, sponges, cnidarians, comb jellies, flatworms, ribbon worms, segmented worms, crustaceans, bryozoans, mollusks, echino- derms, tunicates, fish, etc. Some emblematic species are found in the region such as the American crocodile which inhabits the is- lands and near shore areas. Some, such as the green turtle and the hawks bill turtle, nest in the beaches of Jardines de la Reina

The high abundance of the fishes (tarpons, bonefish, permits, jacks, snappers and grou- pers, mainly) and the presence of extensive sea grass beds and mangrove forests that support nursery areas make this archipel- ago an important source of adults through Avalon spillover to fishing grounds and of larvae to downstream regions, respectively. AN ECOTOURISM PIONEER IN CARIBBEAN DESTINATIONS

With a large experience in best ecotourism destination the Goliath grouper, Ameri- fishing and diving activities, in the Caribbean. Avalon can crocodile, whale shark, since our start in 1993, Ava- operations are inside 4 pro- other sharks, elk-horn coral, lon is proudly considered tected areas, covering the stag-horn coral, black cor- one of the most important largest portion of the Cuban als, marine turtles, iguana, game fishing and SCUBA South Coast, approximately jutías, as well as birds, rep- diving companies in the 60 % of the total cays, coral tiles, mollusks, plants. With- world. Avalon is always wor- reefs and mangrove areas. out any doubts, Jardines ried about protected areas This includes unique eco- de la Reina is an amazing protection, trying to keep systems that range from archipelago, a mangrove- the environmental resourc- the west coast of ISLAND lined everglades and one es as virgin as possible, OF YOUTH, to the eastern of the world’s longest coral its bounty of natural attrac- side of JARDINES DE LA reefs systems (240 km), tions, paired with its me- REINA, the vast of carefully one of the biggest marine ticulous conservation prac- guarded land protects en- reserve (1010 km²) and na- tices, makes it one of the dangered species such as tional park (2170 km²) on 6 7 Earth. Avalon carries out a ed biologists. Hosted trips offers by Ava- nent contact with nature, enjoying amaz- comprehensive patrolling lon, assures exclusivity, first class service, ing service, with a team of guides, manag- and surveillance program amazing cuisine based on fresh sea fish ers, captain, crew and maids that will be in partnership with the Na- and vegetables, comfort and a profession- happy to make your time with us, an expe- tional Office of Fisheries al staff available to assist you all the time rience for a lifetime. Inspection with remarkable you are in our destinations. We are work- effects on nature conser- ing on managing impacts of ecotourism, vation such an increase of and ensuring that the appropriate man- density of commercially agement and development strategies are important and large fish in place. Ecotourism in our marine desti- inside the Marine Reserve nations is promising and forward-looking, (about 30 % when com- and certainly there are lots of ecotourism pared to 1996) and on fish- options for those seeking adventure, for eries through spillover of Jardines de la Reina, to Isla de la Juven- biomass (about 20 % of the tud and Cayo Largo biomass spillover to fisher- ies grounds). We want to be very orthodox in doing eco- tourism. We know areas are fragile, and With Avalon Eco Tours you our main idea is reducing Ecotourism im- don’t have to sacrifice qual- conservation or preserva- pact as much as possible, always giving ity and luxury of accom- Planning a trip with us is tion projects (as the recog- our guests chances to discover our des- modations, we offer float- easy and fast, just ask our nized tagging program we tinations and to learn and contribute with ing hotels and live aboard travel representatives for the have managed in Cuba for ecosystem protection. For this reason, our yachts with very high stan- dates you are looking for, the last 3 seasons). An im- Eco Tours will be offered for small groups dards for quality and luxury. estimate number of guests portant element of this type between two and twelve people, having They bring nature and cul- in your crew and budget, of project is education. The the possibility of assign and protect each ture within your reach, while and we will put together a goal is that through partici- area on the best way, keeping balance be- still assuring your level of program and quote accord- pation, eco travelers will re- tween tourism and protection. comfort. Tours and accom- ing your needs and prefer- turn home with increased modations come in a range ences. People of all inter- awareness and concern for All the Eco Tour guests are accommo- of prices, depending on the ests, ages, incomes, and environmental issues and dated on live aboard yachts and floating level of comfort and conve- backgrounds can become therefore continue to be- hotels, which allows them to be in perma- nience you desire. eco-tourists, and there are have in an environmentally plenty of family-friendly op- conscious way. tions. We are also involved in By encouraging travelers to working on initiatives and behave in an environmen- projects with the local com- tally responsible way. Ava- munity such as training and lon Eco Tours offer relevant education programs. information and advice on how travelers can minimize Avalon has a particular their impact on the ecosys- credit, having established tem as well as how they can marine parks where flora contribute to the protection and fauna is completely of fragile ecosystems. protected, and in almost all We offer travelers the op- of them has trained guides, portunity to participate in many of them well-educat- 8 9 7. Snorkeling in patch reefs North of Cayo Grande (up to El Fraile the Cayo area): Some important areas and activities you will 8. Seafari to the blue (Flying fish, whale sharks, tuna, whales, etc) 1. Snorkeling in patch reefs, North side practice inside the Archipelago: of the Cayo 9. Meseta de los Meros SCUBA dive (advanced divers group around full moon 2. Snorkeling through North open of for spawning aggregation of fish, mainly Las Auras mangrove channel (to see the groupers (December-April) impressive Cubera snappers and Goliath grouper). 10. Hawsbill turtle nest. Playa Cabal- lones East mainly from September to Jan- 3. Seafari to the blue (flying fish, whale uary, peak October to December. sharks, tuna, whales, etc)

11. Clean up beach. 4. Snorkeling around reef crests of El Fraile 12. Beach, Queen conch, swimming and sunbathing on Playa Anclitas 5. SCUBA dive/snorkeling All the Eco Tour guests are accommodat- ed on live aboard yachts and floating

Cayo Anclitas: 4. SCUBA dive/snorkeling in Ancli- 1. Terrestrial tour (hurricane stone, veg- tas/Cana (rays, high coral cover, abun- etation (Punta Práctico), reptiles, feeding dant fish) area of birds (Laguna Anclitas), iguanas, jutías), nesting area of Double-crested 5. Terrestrial tour (vegetation (Mari- Cormorant (January-November, peak on flores), reptiles, feeding ground of May) and Anhinga (March-October, peak birds (North of Punta Mariflores), doline on May), migratory birds (spring migra- (North of Punta Mariflores), iguanas, tion (end of February-half of May, peak jutías, sink holes, nesting area of Dou- March-April; fall migration (beginning of ble-crested Cormorant (January-No- August-half November, peak September- vember, peak on May) and Anhinga October). (March-October, peak on May), mi- gratory birds (spring migration (end of 2. Drift snorkeling on Pasa Anclitas February-half of May, peak March-April; during high tide (Eagle rays, other rays, fall migration (beginning of August-half nurse shark, Longspine black seaurchins, November, peak September-October). Queen conch, abundant fish) 6. Drift snorkeling on Pasa Mari- 3. Snorkeling on Manchado reef crest flores during high tide (lemon shark, abundant and large fish) 10 11 Cayo Caballones: Cayos Boca de Piedra:

1. Terrestrial tour (hurricane stone, 1. Terrestrial tour (vegetation, butterflies, vegetation, reptiles, birds, iguanas, jutías, reptiles, birds, iguanas and jutías), migratory molusks), migratory birds (spring migra- birds (spring migration (end of February-half tion (end of February-half of May, peak of May, peak March-April; fall migration (be- March-April; fall migration (beginning of ginning of August-half November, peak Sep- August-half November, peak September- tember-October). October)

2. Tour to Mangles Altos (10-m tall red 2. Tour to see the American crocodile. mangroves) 3. SCUBA dive/snorkeling with Carib- 3. SCUBA dive/snorkeling with silky bean reef sharks & Goliath grouper sharks (and groupers (mainly black), jacks (mainly horse-eye) 4. Drift snorkeling in Pasa Boca Piedra during high tide 4. Snorkeling at Puntica reef crest (alive Elkhorn corals, abundant Longspine black 5. Snorkeling in patch reefs North of seaurchins, higher density of fish in Jardines) the Cayo

5. Snorkeling in patch reefs North of the 6. Seafari to the blue (Flying fish, whale Cayo sharks, tuna, whales, etc)

6. Drift snorkeling on Pasa Caballones 7. Clean up beach. during high tide.

7. Seafari to the blue (whale sharks, tuna, whales, etc)

8. Hawsbill turtle nest. Playa Guincho and Playa Caballones West mainly from Septem- ber to January, peak October to December.

9. Clean up beach.

12 13 14 15 crustaceans, drawn into their gullets by the Some of the protected species you will have powerful suction created when they open their large mouth. Their population has the opportunity to discover in Jardines de la declined throughout their range: Nassau grouper is Endangered, Black grouper is Reina: Vulnerable. Jardines de la Reina shows the highest abundance and largest sizes of these species in Cuba and perhaps of the Caribbean

Gamefish:

Jardines de la Reina is one of the best shal- low water fly fishing destinations on Earth. Main species target by anglers are bone- fish (Albula vulpes), tarpon (Megalops at- lanticus), permit (Trachinotus falcatus) and snook (Centropomus undecimalis), which together show the highest abundance of gamefish in Cuba and probably in the Ca- ribbean islands. Bonefish likes shallow wa- Cubera snapper (Lutjanus cy- ters (sand, mud, limestone, vegetated and anopterus): reef bottoms). Old adults are solitary but younger adult and juvenile group on large It is the largest snapper in the Western schools of hundreds individuals. Bonefish hemisphere reaching 5-foot and more feed mainly on crustaceans. It may reach over harvesting and is considered Criti- than 100-pound. Cubera snapper is a noc- 1 m and weight 10 kg and lives 19 years. FISH cally Endangered by IUCN. Jardines turnal predator that feed on fish and crus- Avalon Tagging Program has revealed that de la Reina shows the healthiest popu- taceans. During day time it tends to be bonefish may travel up to 37 nautical miles lation of Goliath grouper of Cuba and solitary (mainly large specimens) or form- in few months. It is considered Vulnerable the Caribbean, with weekly sightings ing small schools (mainly medium size in- by IUCN. Tarpon is considered the king of during SCUBA diving. It is known that dividuals). Jardines de la Reina shows the gamefishing due to its size (2.5 m), weight many large specimens left the protec- highest abundance and largest sizes of (160 kg) and strength (allow them to jump tion of the Marine Reserve and National Cubera snapper in Cuba and perhaps of acrobatically out of the water). It lives in Park, presumably to spawn up to 100- the Caribbean. It is considered Vulnerable coastal and oceanic waters but prefer mile away sites every summer. by IUCN. coastal ones. Tarpon may live more than 70 years and female produce up to 20 Other large groupers (to 4-foot long) million eggs. It feeds mainly and fish and found in Jardines de la Reina are Black crustaceans. grouper (Epinephelus bonaci), Nassau Permit behavior, shape and strength make grouper (Epinephelus striatus), Tiger its catch very challenging. It is mainly a Goliath grouper (Epinephelus grouper (Mycteroperca tigris) and Yel- coastal species, seen solitary or in small itajara): lowfin grouper (Mycteroperca vene- schools on sandy or sand-mud bottoms. nosa). All have strong, stout bodies and Permit feed mainly in crustaceans. Juve- It is the second largest finfish on Earth (reach large mouths. They solitary carnivores nile are abundant in Jardines de la Reina 8-foot and 800-pound). Population is almost that live lurking in the shadows of reefs, beaches during summer. It may reach 120 vanished from the entire Caribbean due to ledges and wrecks to ambush fish and cm and 36 kg. Snook is found on lower 16 17 salinity waters. It is a relatively sedentary and generally solitary species. Snook feed on fish and crustaceans. It may reach 1.3 m. CORALS

Eagle ray (Aetobatus nari- nari):

It is one the “flying” rays since it spends Sharks (Orders Orectolobiformes most of its time swimming. As other (Carpet sharks), Lamniformes rays, Eagle ray has greatly enlarged Acropora corals (Elkhorn coral, Black corals (Anthipates sp.): (Mackerel sharks) y Carcharhini- pectoral fins (to 8-foot from tip to tip), Acropora palmata) and Stag- formes (Ground sharks): providing it propulsion for swimming horn coral (Acropora cervicor- There are approximately 15 species of much like birds use their wings for flight. nis): Black corals in the Caribbean that can be Sharks are critical to marine environment Adult Eagle rays are often spotted on found within safe SCUBA diving depths. due to their ecological role as top predators, reef crest and channels of Jardines de Though there are several hundred species Few species attain considerable size and maintaining ecosystems health and equilib- la Reina, while juveniles roamed in flats. of Acropora throughout the Indo-Pacific, their branches are collected, cut, fash- rium. Increase fishing pressure and value to This species jumps acrobatically out Elkhorn coral and Staghorn coral are the ioned, polished and sold by jewelers as a tourism make important their conservation of the water giving to the observers a only two species described within the Ca- semiprecious material. The value of these and sustainable management. The Orders wonderful experience. It is considered ribbean. They are fast growing, branching trinkets comes more from propaganda of mentioned above include about 40 species Vulnerable by IUCN. species and major reef-building corals, rareness and the danger associated with reported for Cuban waters and potentially contributing significantly to reef growth, deep diving to collect branches, than from found in Jardines de la Reina. Of the 10 spe- island formation, coastal protection and any innate property of the material. Unfor- cies reported in Jardines de la Reina, 6 are fisheries habitat. The open structural tunately, these species are rare through- considered Vulnerable by IUCN. The list in- framework of these densely populated out their range of distribution due to over- clude: Rhincodon typus (Whale shark, the Acropora thickets provides essential habi- harvesting. Jardines de la Reina is one largest fish exited ever), Ginglymostoma cir- tat for fishes, turtles, lobsters, crabs, echi- of the few places in the Caribbean where ratum (Nurse shark), Carcharhinus brevipinna noids and gastropods. Acropora corals you can enjoy Black corals in almost every (Spinner shark), C. falciformis (Silky shark), have declined 80-90 % since the 1980s SCUBA dive. It is included in the Appendix C. perezii (Caribbean reef shark), Negaprion throughout the Caribbean and are listed II of Resolution 161/11. brevirostris (Lemon shark), Rhizoprionodon as Critically Endangered by IUCN. Acro- porosus/terranovae (Caribbean/Atlantic pora corals are presumably recovering in Sharpnose sharks), Sphyrna mokarran (Great Jardines de la Reina Hammerhead), C. limbatus (Blacktip shark), Galeocerdo cuvier (Tigre shark). Jardines de la Reina is one of the few places in the Ca- ribbean where sharks can be observed every day, mainly Nurse, Silky, Caribbean reef and Lemon sharks.

18 19 MARINE MOLLUSKS

Pilar coral (Dendrogyra cilin- drus):

It is one of the most magnificent coral species in the Caribbean. Colonies form numerous, heavym cylindrical spires that grow upward from an encrusting base mass that name the species. Inhabit flat and slightly sloping bot- toms. Polyps are normally extended during Queen conch (Strombus gi- Helmet conchs (Cassis sp.): the day (most of the other corals show their gas): polyps during night), giving colony a fuzzy These are among the largest and most appearance. Occasional to rare throughout This is one of the largest and most beau- beautiful marine mollusks in the Carib- its range of distribution, Pilar coral is frequent tiful marine mollusks in the Caribbean. bean. Exterior shell in shades of reddish- in Jardines de la Reina. It is included in the Shell has short conical spire with blunt brown in a wavy, netted pattern. Shell Appendix II of Resolution 161/11. spikes. Shell’s exterior is orangish and ap- aperture is rosy-pink-purple. Inhabit sea- ertura is rosy-pink. Inhabit seagrass beds grass beds and sand flats, often around and sand flats, often around patch reefs. patch and fringing reefs. During day usu- Queen conch has become uncommon in ally burrow in sand with only small part many areas because of over-harvesting. of upper shell exposed. Hunt in open at Jardines de la Reina has the healthiest night for sea urchins, which they attack population of Cuba and perhaps of the with surprising speed. Helmet conchs Caribbean. It is considered Vulnerable by have become uncommon in many areas IUCN. because of over-collecting. Jardines de la Reina has a healthy population of Helmet conchs. They are considered Vulnerable by IUCN.

20 21 CRUSTACEANS ECHINODERMS

Caribbean Spiny lobster (Panuli- rus argus): Long-spined urchin (Diadema antillarum): It is the largest, most beautiful and most colorful of the Cuban marine crustaceans. It has numerous long, thin, sharp spines. Besides, it has the highest economical im- Usually all black but young have back and portance of Cuban fisheries resources. Ca- white banded spines. Long-spined urchin ribbean Spiny lobster fishery is the only one is a keystone species in Caribbean coral allows inside the Marine Reserve, since its reef controlling the abundance of algae sustainability. Jardines de la Reina and sur- on them. It suffered a massive die-off by roundings contribute with the 10 % of total the beginning of the 1980s causing a shift Cuban landings of Caribbean Spiny lobster. baseline of Caribbean coral reef from cor- als-dominated to algae-dominated ones. Long-spined urchin is recovering slowly since then. Jardines de la Reina is one of the few places in the Caribbean showing a strong recovery of Long-spined urchin population. It is included in the Appendix II of Resolution 161/11.

22 23 found in the coastal areas of most of the Cuban islands though its populations have decreased and is considered Vulner- able by IUCN. It is considered a keystone REPTILES species because accelerate germination rate of seeds, provide nutrients to the soil leatherback turtle (Dermo- through feces and disperse seeds in its chelys coriacea): habitats. Iguana is very vulnerable before hurricanes and drought. All these species have seen depleting their population due to over-harvesting to the point that hawksbill and leather- back are considered Critically Endan- Iguana (Cyclura nubila nubila): gered and green and loggerhead are considered Endangered by IUCN. The It is the largest terrestrial reptile of Cuba four species of marine turtles occur in and an endemic subspecies. Iguana is Jardines de la Reina, though hawks- bill and green are the most common American crocodile (Crocodylus ones, primarily the hawksbill. Jardines acutus): de la Reina is the most important nest- ing are for hawksbill in Cuban waters It lives from freshwater to saltwater, from US with 65 % of the reported nationwide. It Florida, many Caribbean islands, Central is known that most of hawksbill turtles TERRESTRIAL MAMMAL America to Venezuela and Peru. American spend most of their life cycle in Cuban crocodile lives around 60 years, reaches 4 waters. Hawksbills nest year around, m of length and 200 kg of weight, although mainly from September to January with there are reports of 7 m individuals in South the high rate between October and De- America. Its abundance has presumably in- cember, later than in other Western At- creased in Jardines de la Reina due to pro- lantic areas. Hawksbills prefer to nest in tection. American crocodile is considered the vegetated zone closest to shoreline. Vulnerable by IUCN. Green turtles use Jardines de la Reina as reproductive and feeding grounds but also as migratory corridors. Green turtles of Jardines de la Reina are strongly connected with Grand Cay- man population. Jutía conga (Capromys pi- lorides doceleguas):

It is a subspecies restricted to Jardines de Reina of the Cuban endemic species. Jutía conga is the largest of rodents found in Cuba, reaching around 70 cm and weight- ing up to 6 kg (13 pounds). Its population Marine turtles (hawksbill turtle is abundant in the islands and cays but (Eretmochelys imbricata), green due to its restricted distribution the spe- turtle (Chelonia mydas), log- cies considered Critically Endangered by gerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), IUCN. 24 25 of Youth and many cays in both coasts. It is thought to be a potential subspecies in Jardines de la Reina. Red-Legged Thrush reaches 27 cm. Its distinct features are: BIRDS gray, eye ring and leg red-orange, peak orange or black, throat black. Its known distribution range barely includes few cen- tral cays of the Laberinto de las Doce Le- guas (Grande, Caballones, Anclitas). In addition, its occurrence has not been re- corded in the last 15 yrs despite several surveys have been conducted in afore- Cuba Green Woodpecker (Xi- mentioned localities, so it´s plausible to phidiopicus percussus ssp): think that it would have undergone a local extirpation. Based on external features of Common permanent resident in Cuba, Isle one specimen collected from Caballones of Youth and some cays in both coasts. It is in 1930 and deposited at the Smithsonian one of the seven Cuban endemic genera Institution, this population may have rep- Cuban Pewee (Contopus carib- Tawny-shouldered Blackbird and represented in Jardines de la Reina by resented an intergraded form between the aeus): (Agelaius humeralis ssp): potential subspecies. Cuba Green Wood- two known populations (T. p. rubripes and pecker reaches 23 cm. Its distinct features T. p. schistaceus) occurring in Cuba. Common permanent resident in Cuba, Isle of Common permanent resident in Cuba are: green-olive back, light yellow belly with Youth and some cays. It is an Cuban endem- and several larger cays in both coasts. dark brown stripes, red spot on the throat ic subspecies represented by two distinct It is considered a cuban endemic sub- base and upper part of chest. It is the only populations restricted to Jardines de la Reina species with a potential new population woodpecker that makes a peculiar sound archipelago: C. c. nerlyi and C. c. florentinoi. inhabiting Jardines de la Reina cays. with wings when approaching the nest as Cuban Pewee reaches 16 cm long and its dis- Tawny-shouldered Blackbird reaches an acoustic sign ritualizing the nest care tinct features are: a broad and flattened bill 20 cm long. Its distinct features are: replacement between parents. It has been with a fleshy-colored lower mandible and a entirely black plumage with a brown- recorded in Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, white half-circle behind eyes. It can be found ish-orange spot on shoulders and tail Boca Piedra Chica, Cruces, Boca Seca, along the insular group: Bretón, Alcatracito, forked with rounded tip feathers. Dis- Caguama, Cabeza del Este. Alcatraz, Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, Boca tibution range comprises several cays Piedra Piloto, Cruces, Juan Grin, Caguama such as: Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, and Cabeza del Este. Boca Piedra Piloto, Boca Piedra Chi- ca, Boca Grande, Cruces, Cachiboca, Peregrine Falcon (Falco per- Boca Seca, Boca Rica, Campo Santo, egrinus): Juan Grin, Caguama, Cabeza del Este. Common winter resident and transient in Cuba, Isle of Youth and some northern cays. It reaches 46 cm long. Its distinct fea- tures are: upperparts gray to dark brown, black head, underside whitish brown- barred, and a variable facial vertical black stripe, tail long narrowing to its tip and Red-Legged Thrush (Turdus slightly barred from underneath. Peregrine plumbeus ssp): Falcon is considered as a rare species in Jardines de la Reina, only recorded in An- Common permanent resident in Cuba, Isle clitas and Caguama cays. It is included in 26 27 the Appendix I of Resolution 161/11. sparse and minute brown spots. Its oc- reaches 58 cm. Its distinct features are: up- currence in Jardines de la Reina was for- perparts dark brown, white underparts. In merly known from anecdotal references flight, the long wings have a conspicuous until a single individual was sighted in black patch on wrist and black tips. Stripe the coastal mangroves of Boca Pie- through the eye broad dark in migrant indi- dra Piloto cay in June 2005. Common viduals or paler in residents. Ospreys feed Barn-Owl is included in the Appendix I on fish. It is included in the Appendix I of of Resolution 161/11. Where?? Resolution 161/11. It is widely represented along Jardines de la Reina cays, whose distribution range comprises Bretón, Cin- co Balas, Alcatracito, Alcatraz, Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, Boca Piedra Piloto, Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamai- Boca Piedra Chica, Cruces, Cachiboca, censis): Boca Seca, Juan Grin, Caguama and Ca- Merlin (Falco columbarius): beza del Este. Common and widely distributed perma- Common winter resident and transient in nent resident in Cuba and cayo Coco. It Cuba, Isle of Youth and some larger cays. reaches 56 cm. Its distinct features are: It reaches 30 cm long. Its distinct features upperparts brown, underparts whitish un- are: Upperparts blue-dark grayish (male), or derside with brown spots across the belly, brown with grayish uppertail coverts (female), long, broad and rounded winds with dis- cinnamon-colored underparts with brown Cuban Black-Hawk (Buteo tinct dark bar and wrist patch on leading streaks, poorly defined vertical stripe below gallus gundlachii): edge, entirely rufous tail (adults) or brown eye, tail boldly banded in light gray and black barred (inmatures). Red-Tailed Hawk has with a white tip. Merlin has only been docu- Common resident in Cuba, Isle of Youth been only recorded in Anclitas, Caguama, mented in cayos Grande, Caballones and and cays and it is considered a Cuban and is included in the Appendix I of Reso- Anclitas. It is included in the Appendix I of endemic species. It reaches 53 cm. Its lution 161/11. Resolution 161/11. distinct features are: dark-chocolate brown with broad, rounded wings with Double-crested Cormorant a white patch at base of primaries clear- (Phalacrocorax auritus): ly visible in flight, tail short with broad white-black bands, base of bill and Common permanent resident and rare legs. Cuban Black-Hawk is observed winter resident in Cuba, Isle of Youth and along Jardines de la Reina (Bretón, some cays. It reaches 81 cm long. Its Cinco Balas, Alcatraz, Alcatracito, distinct features are: black overall with Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, Cruces, a green metallic sheen evident in good Cachiboca, Boca Seca, Caguama and light, bare facial skin and rounded orange Cabeza del Este). The Cuban common throat pouch. Double-crested Cormorant name comes from its sound: ba-tis-ta. is an excellent swimmer-diver which feeds It is included in the Appendix I of Reso- on fish. This coastal-marine and colo- lution 161/11. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus): nial-breeder shows a very wide distribution Common Barn-Owl (Tyto alba): and represented by large populations be- Common as winter resident and transient ing reported in most cays of Jardines de Common permanent resident in Cuba, Isle of (P. h. carolinensis) in Cuba, Isle of Youth la Reina (Bretón, Cinco Balas, Alcatracito, Youth and some cays as well as a very rare and cays, but permanent resident popula- Alcatraz, Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, winter resident. It reaches 38 cm. Its distinct tions are more rare and represented by a Boca Piedra Piloto, Boca Piedra Chica, features are: upperparts yellowish-cinnamon local subspecies (P. h. ridwayi), restricted Largo, Boca Grande, Cruces, Cachiboca, brown, underparts white or pale beige with to surrounding archipelagos and cays. It Boca Seca, Juan Grin, Caguama, Ca- 28 29 beza del Este). Double-crested Cormorant is included in the Appendix II of Resolution 161/11. TERRESTRIAL REPTILES

Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga):

Common permanent resident and rare win- ter resident in Cuba, Isle of Youth and some cays. It reaches 89 cm. Its distinct features Leiocephalus carinatus cayen- Ameiva auberi galbiceps (Cu- are: blackish-brown with green iridescence sis (Perrito de costa): lebrina o Correcosta): (male), head, neck and chest pale brown (fe- male), large silvery white areas on upper wing It is a local endemic subespecies restrict- It is a local endemic subespecies restrict- long neck, yellow bill, tail long with white tip. ed to the cayos Grande, Caballones, Ancl- ed to the cayos from Grande to Caguama Anhinga is an excellent swimmer and feed itas, Boca de la Piedra Piloto, Las Cruces, which abundant populations. on fish. It inhabits shallow waters along the Cachiboca and Juan Grin. It is included in entire archipelago being reported in many the Appendix II of Resolution 161/11. cays (Bretón, Cinco Balas, Alcatraz, Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, Boca Piedra Chica, Cruces, Boca Rica, Juan Grin, Caguama, Cabeza del Este) Anhinga is included in the Appendix II of Resolution 161/11.

Cubophis cantherigerus ssp. (Jubo de sabana): Leiocephalus cubensis paraphrus (Bayoya): Potential subspecies of Jardines de la Reina, located in the cayos Bretón, It is a Cuban endemic species with a local Grande, Caballones, Anclitas, Las Cruces subespecies restricted to Jardines de la and Cachiboca. It is the only snake in the Reina. It have been onserved in the cayos archipelago. from Anclitas to Juan Grin. It is included in the Appendix I of Resolution 161/11. 30 31 TERRESTRIAL MOLLUSK TERRESTRIAL PLANTS

Silver Palm (Coccothrinax lito- Copernicia macroglosa: Cerion sp: ralis): Endemic of Centra Cuba. It is found in Species which is imprecise Endemic of Central-Eastern Cuba. It is Cayo Caguamas. yet. Cerion is the genus of terrestrial mol- found everywhere in Jardines de la Reina. lusks of highest diversity on Earth with about 600 “forms” described due to their morphological diversity. They inhabit sev- eral bushes and herbs habitats along Jardines de la Reina, living on plants and soil, sometime in very high densities. They are considered Vulnerable by IUCN.

Helitrope (Heliotropium myrio- phyllum):

Endemic of Central-Eastern Cuba. It is found in Cayo Grande. It is included in the Appendix I of Resolution 161/11.

32 33 MARINE MAMMALS reach 2.3 m and 140 kg. Spotted dol- phin is very active at the surface, swim- ming just below it and jumping above while traveling. It is common in Jardines de la Reina. It is included in the Appen- dix I of Resolution 161/11. Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae):

It may reach 17 m, 40 tons and live 80 years. Its 5 m long pectoral fins is the distinctive feature of Humpback whales. Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops In winter, it migrates to tropical and sub- truncatus): tropical waters to reproduce. Humpback whales are friendly and curious animals Among the dolphin group, this the common- not afraid of boats and people and well est and most studied species. It may reach 4 known by their jump and songs. To feed m and 500 kg and lives up to 60 years. It has on krill and small fish, Humpback whales an echo system to locate food and may work produce “bubble net” to concentrate prey in groups to hunt. Bottlenose dolphin plays Sperm whale (Physeter mac- on surface. It is is spotted often in Jardines often with boats and swimmers. It is observed rocephalus): de la Reina. Humpback whale is included in Jardines de la Reina year around. Bottle- in the Appendix I of Resolution 161/11. nose dolphin is included in the Appendix II of It is cosmopolitan and the largest Resolution 161/11. teeth-whale (18 m and 57 tons). Sperm whale head accounts for a third of body length. It has several records on Animal Kingdom such as the deepest (2 800 m) and the longest (90 minutes) apnea dive. Sperm whale is spotted often in Jardines de la Reina. It is considered Vulnerable by IUCN.

Spotted dolphin (Stenella fronta- lis):

As its name indicates, spots cover the entire body of this dolphin but its dorsal fin. It may 34 35 A- Northern Fore Reef areas landward from Northern Colonized Pavement to the cayos. Mainly dominated The Northern Fore Reef extends seaward by Thalassia testudinum (Turtle Grass), HABITATS and downward from the cayos. It is the density and size of sea grass are lower most complex of the reef zones, owing to and smaller than that in Internal Lagoons. the large depth gradient over which it oc- Patchy reef crest and small patch reef Although some variations occur from place curs (5 – 10 m). In many areas, the fore reef (10s m2) are found on this habitat. North- is organized into a set of en-echelon reef ern Reef Crest is peculiar since reef crests to place along the archipelago, this general promontories and sand channels, termed do not form long and large formations like “spur-and-groove” topography though Southern Reef Crest but round and smaller scheme shows the position of each element narrower (10-15 m) and less structurally ones. On the other hand, Northern Patch complex than Southern Fore Reef and Reefs are small coral formations up to 10s (zone) of the Jardines de la Reina profile from usually is formed by medium-large sizes m2. This habitat is dominated by Mille- patch reefs (100s m2). This zone is domi- pora sp (Fire Corals), Acropora cervicor- North to South: nated by hard coral Montastraea annularis nis (Staghorn Coral), A. prolifera (Fused (Boulder Start Coral) colonies up to 3 m Staghorn), Porites astreoides (Mustard wide and several species of octocorals up Hill Coral) and P. porites (Finger Coral). to 2 m tall. This is the Northern habitat of Acropora palmata (Elkhorn Coral) is also highest abundance of large specimens presented but most of the colonies are of fish such as Lachnolaimus maximus death. More abundant fish are Haemulon (Hogfish) Lutjanus jocu (Dog Snapper), sciurus (Bluestriped Grunt), White Grunt L. cyanopterus (Cubera Snapper), Mycte- and French Grunt. Large fish observed roperca venenosa (Yellowfin Grouper), M. are Lutjanus analis (Mutton Snapper), Dog bonaci (Black Grouper) and Epinephelus Snapper and Cubera Snapper. itajara (Goliath Grouper). D- Mangrove Forests B- Northern Colonized Pave- ment From shoreline to inner part of the cayos, mainly northern part of the cayos, Man- Northern Colonized Pavement extends like grove Forests dominate the landscape. a narrow band (10 – 30 m) landward from Closer to the sea Rhizophora mangle (Red Northern Fore Reef to the cayos. This is a Mangrove) is dominant with a succession limestone-coral low relief pavement domi- to Avicennia germinans (Black Mangrove), nated by octocorals such as Pseudopter- Laguncularia racemosa (White Mangrove) ogorgia americana (Slimy Sea Plume), Eu- and Conocarpus erectus (Buttonwood) nicea sp (Knobby Sea Rod), Plexaura sp. toward the interior of the cayos as the (Sea Rod) with few coral colonies mainly of influence of saltwater decreased. There Siderastrea radians (Lesser Starlet Coral), is patchy death of Red Mangrove of un- Dichocoenia stokesii (Elliptical Star Coral), known cause throughout Jardines de la Diploria clivosa (Knobby Brain Coral) and Reina. Mangrove Forests are very impor- D. strigosa (Symmetrical Brain Coral). Fish tant for marine and terrestrial flora and are medium size grunts, mainly Haemulon fauna, providing shelter, feeding and nest- plumieri (White Grunt) and H. flavolinea- ing grounds for a variety of plants and ani- tum (French Grunt). mals. C- Northern Seagrass Beds E- Internal Lagoons

Northern Seagrass Beds cover extensive Most of the cayos have internal lagoons. 36 37 AVALON FLEET I

38 39 These are dominated by dense and tall sea- sionally, Silver Palm emerges up to 2 m grass beds, mainly Turtle Grass, with smaller high. Coastal Vegetation Complex over areas cover by patch reefs and milestone Milestone is located close to seashore. It habitats. Internal Lagoons are fringed by is dominated by herbs no more than 0.2 m Mangroves Forests and are important feed- high such as Blacktorch, Buttonwood and ing, nursery, shelter and resting grounds for Little Bluestem. hundreds species, mainly birds, fish and crustaceans. G- Southern Back Reef and Reef Lagoon F- Vegetation in Southern Part of the Cayos The lagoon includes the seagrass beds, shallow water flats, mangrove formations, Southern areas of the cayos are typically patch reefs. This is an important nursery the “solid part” of them where sand is the zone with high productivity waters. Nutri- dominant substrate although there are plac- ents, food, larvae, are carried all over the es where milestone is. Coastal Shrubs over area in different movement patterns deter- Sand is the main habitat in the cayos. It ex- mined by the geography of the flats, tides, tends parallel to beaches. More conspicu- currents and weather conditions. A whole ous plants are Coccothrinax litoralis (Silver system of complicated relationships and Palm), Metopium toxiferum (Poisontree), movements of fish populations occurs in Erithalis fruticosa (Blacktorch), Chrysobala- this zone. The seagrass beds and man- nus icaco (Coco Plum), Coccoloba uvifera groves also work as a huge filtering system (Seagrape), Thrinax radiata (Thatch palm) for the water that goes to the reef with the and Crossopetalum rhacoma (Maidenberry). outgoing tide. These are feeding grounds This vegetation is up to 5 m high. Shrub stra- for Bonefish (Albula vulpes), Tarpon (Meg- tum covers 80 to 95 % reaching up to 2.5 m alops atlanticus) and Permit (Trachinotus high. More abundant species of the shrub falcatus). The export of plant detritus and stratum are Blacktorch, Silver Palm and Plu- faunal biomass to support offshore con- meria obtuse (Frangipani). Terrestrial fauna sumers is an important function of man- use Coastal Shrubs over Sand as the main grove swamps, which is a strong argument habitat. Another habitat observed in Jardines for their conservation. Mangroves provide de la Reina is Coastal Vegetation Complex refuges for adult and larval stages of fish- over Sand, which is found in patches inside es and crustaceans, many of which are Coastal Shrubs over Sand habitat. The com- commercially important. Small patch reef moner species of plants are Schizachryri- are found in this habitat. They are sanctu- um maritimum (Little Bluestem), Paspalum aries of life in the middle of the desert Reef caespitosum (Blue Crowngrass), Malloto- Lagoon. In Jardines de la Reina, main cor- nia gnaphalodes (Sea Rosemary), Euphor- als in this habitat are Mustard Hill Coral, bia mesembryanthemifolia (Coastal Beach Elliptical Star Coral, Symmetrical Brain Sandmat), Borrichia arborescens (Tree Sea- Coral, Finger Coral and Lesser Starlet Cor- side Oxeye) and Canavalia maritime (Bay- al. Among octocorals, dominate Plexaura bean). In the areas where milestone is the homomalla (Black Sea Rod) and Eunicea substrate Coastal Shrubs over Milestone or mammosa (Swollen-knob Candelabrum) Coastal Vegetation Complex over Milestone and grunts, wrasses and surgeonfish are are the habitats found. Coastal Shrubs over the commonest fish. Milestone grow in relatively large milestone platforms, reaching around 0.7 m. More abundant species is Pride-of-big-Pine. Ocas- 40 41 TORTUGA Floating hotel

42 43 H- Southern Reef Crest diately behind the crest and numerous the platform margin. Otherwise, it is sim- small patch reefs in a sand apron. The ply a down-dip extension of the fore reef. The crest of the reef generally emerges at low corals are generally well adapted to the When occurring separate from the shal- tide, but may be below the surface. The sea- high levels of sedimentation to which lower reef zones, the location of the deep ward edge of the reef crest takes the brunt they are regularly subjected. In Jar- fore reef is probably controlled by both the of the incoming wave energy. The reef can dines de la Reina, main coral species break in slope and the existence of an an- reduce incoming wave energy by up to 97%. are Elkhorn Coral (most colonies are tecedent high left by a previous reef. Main As waves break, water is washed across the death) and Fire Corals and the domi- coral species are Mustard Hill Coral, Less- reef crest and into the lagoon, driving lagoon nant octocorals are Plexaura kuken- er Starlet Coral, Boulder Star Coral and circulation. Because of the modification of thali, Briareum asbestinum (Corky Sea Agaricia humilis (Lowrelief Lettuce Coral), wave forces across the reef crest, the back Finger) and Gorgonia flabellum (Ve- while octocorals are dominated by Slimy reef is an environment of totally different nus Sea Fan). The commonest fish Sea Plume, Bipinnate Sea Plume, Eunicea physical processes, ecology and sediment are surgeonfish and grunts although flexuosa and Corky Sea Finger. This is the characteristics. Sediments and rubble from large species such as Tarpon, Scarus habitat with highest abundance and bio- the reef crest are dumped behind the crest, guacamaia (Rainbow Parrotfish), Dog mass of medium and large sizes fish such widening the back reef flat through time. Jar- snapper and Mycteroperca tigris (Tiger as snappers, groupers, rays, sharks not dines de la Reina reef flats have only recently Grouper) are observed often. This is a only in Jardines de la Reina and Cuba but reached sea level and are narrow. There is nursery habitat for young Eretmochelys also of the Caribbean and similar to the a general transition from branching corals imbricata (Hawksbill Turtle). best preserved isolated areas of Central Acropora (Horn Corals) and the hydrozoans Pacific. Millepora (Fire Corals) near the front of the I- Southern Colonized Pave- crest to sand flats and seagrass landward. ment K- Southern Reef Wall The shallow back reef may have a shallow Porites (hard coral species) reef flat imme- Southern Colonized Pavement extends Perhaps the most dramatic feature of the seaward from the Southern Reef Crest deep fore reef is the “Reef Wall”. At depths to the Caribbean Sea. It is 50-200 m ranging from 30 to 50 meters, the fore reef wide. This is a limestone-coral low relief slope rolls over to a vertical or, in some pavement dominated by octocorals, places, overhanging precipice. This is mainly Venus Sea Fan, being Mustard spawning area for most of the Cuban ich- Hill Coral the dominant hard coral. Fish thyofauna. are scarce due to absence of shelter. J- Southern Fore Reef

Southern Fore Reef extends seaward and downward from the Southern Reef Crest. It is the most complex of the reef zones, owing to the large depth gradi- ent over which it occurs (6 to 25 m). In many areas, the fore reef is organized into “spur-and-groove” topography of higher structural complexity and wider (up to 50 m) than Northern Fore Reef. The fore reef slope is the least consis- tent of any of the reef zones, in either its occurrence or character. Where a fore reef slope is present, the deep area usu- ally occurs as a well-defined ridge near 44 45 Wild Life

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