Bionews ISSUE 5 - 2017 in This Issue: 1 Editor’S Letter 15 Bonaire Launches 31 List of Acronyms Feral Pig Control Programme 2 Status of St

BIONEwS ISSUE 5 - 2017 In this issue: 1 Editor’s Letter 15 Bonaire Launches 31 List of Acronyms Feral Pig Control Programme 2 Status of St. Eustatius’s Reef 32 Calendar 16 Research Overview 9 Nature On St. Eustatius Hit 33 Members and Contact Hard By Hurricanes 18 Long-Term Projects Overview 34 References 10 BRUV Work In The 26 Monitoring Overview Dutch Caribbean 30 Reports and Publications 12 Impact of Terrestrial Invasive Grazing on Bonaire: Case Study

Dutch Carribean, October 2017 Editor’s Letter

To continue our series of articles focusing on the We also focus on exciting work that has been status of reefs in all five of our islands, we take an undertaken in the waters around our islands. in-depth look at how St. Eustatius’s reef land- Researchers from Wageningen Marine Research scape has changed over the past decades, with have been collecting data on shark populations recent studies pointing to a rapid decline of the since 2012 with the use of stereo Baited Remote island’s coral cover and shift from coral dominated Underwater Videos (sBRUV). Prior to this study to algae-dominated benthic communities. The no data was available on shark populations in the cover of macroalgae on the island’s reefs has been Dutch Caribbean, making the management and high since 2007, and there is now also an alarm- conservation of these key predators very difficult. ingly high cyanobacteria cover. The rapid deterio- To this date, over 800 sBRUV videos have been ration of St. Eustatius’s reefs is a clear indication deployed across the Dutch Caribbean and data that they are under mounting pressure from local, collection is close to completion. Initial results regional and global stressors. point to reasonably healthy shark populations, notably around Saba. Unlike neighboring island St. Maarten, which reefs were severely damaged by Hurricanes Irma The loss of vegetation caused by grazing inva- this past September, STENAPA has reported that sive species is a serious issue for islands in the St. Eustatius’s reefs faired pretty well. The reefs Caribbean region, as it affects terrestrial, coastal around the island retained their coral cover, with and marine ecosystems. Not only does it result in Giant Barrel Sponges the most affected. A week the loss of native terrestrial plant species, the sub- later, however, Hurricane Maria did have a strong sequent increase in sediment run-off is typically negative impact on some staghorn fields and their associated with coral mortality. In this edition of recovery is expected to take many years. Another BioNews, we take a look at the impact of invasive enormous loss has been the loss of the Jenkins grazing species on Bonaire’s nature, notably don- Bay and Crooks Castle coral gardens, key compo- keys, pigs and goats, which have already wreaked nents to the island’s coral restoration efforts. Sea havoc. Thanks to the generous funding from the turtle nesting will most likely be affected by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Economic Affairs through complete loss of sand on beaches around Oranje the Nature Fund, projects are now running on our Bay and possibly by all the extra sand deposited islands to tackle the issue of feral pigs and goats. on Zeelandia beach. Hundreds of trees on the island were also uprooted and damaged, which may lead to erosion and resulting sediment-runoff Happy reading! onto the island’s reefs. The DCNA Team

1 2. Status of the reefs of St. Eustatius

In the past five years five major studies have surveys have been repeated every year since 2015 looked at the health of St. Eustatius’ coral reefs to follow changes and trends. In addition, 104 ste- (Table 2). Between October 2012 and August reo Baited Remote Underwater Videos (sBRUV) 2013, Debrot et al. (2014) did a quantitative were deployed in 2015 to assess the relative finfish assessment of habitat diversity and biodiversity community composition, density and distribution of the benthic seascape. Based on 869 video as- in the shallow coastal waters of the St. Eustatius sessments they mapped St. Eustatius’ nearshore Marine Park (Van Kuijk et al., 2015). shelf at depths of 5-30 meters including sea grass beds, coral reefs and algal fields. In June 2015, In November 2016, conservation organizations Naturalis Biodiversity Center in collaboration from Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten joined with ‘ANEMOON Foundation’ organized a marine a research expedition organized by the Scripps biodiversity expedition to St. Eustatius to create Institute of Oceanography and the WAITT a species list against which future studies on the Foundation to conduct a rapid scientific assess- island’s marine fauna and flora can be compared ment of the coral reefs around the windward (Hoeksema, 2016). The expedition’s multi-disci- Caribbean islands (Sandin et al., 2016). The plinary team assessed species composition and GCRMN protocol was used to establish a regional richness of various groups of organisms including scale perspective of reef health, with surveys corals, seaweeds, sponges, mollusks, tunicates taking place in the fore-reef habitat at depths and fishes (Hoeksema and Schrieken, 2016). between 7 and 15 m (Sandin et al., 2016). In St. Baseline data was collected from 40 dive stations Eustatius, eleven coral reef environments were and 20 shore-side locations down to a depth of 30 mapped with 3D imagery to gather data on m. Biological samples and photographs were benthic and reef fish communities, including their taken at each station to document the present structure and composition (Sandin et al., 2016). state of St. Eustatius’s marine biodiversity The results of these surveys have not yet been (Hoeksema, 2016). released but footage can be seen here: https:// drive.google.com/drive/folders/0By3cTucxJ9G In 2015, Piontek and de Graaf surveyed 20 sites Fd3VtUUVueHhpbEU (100IslandChallenge.org, within the St. Eustatius National Marine Park at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San depths between 8 and 18 m to set up a baseline of Diego, in partnership with the Waitt Institute). St. Eustatius’s reef health (de Graaf et al., 2015; The goal is to repeat the assessment in two years Piontek, 2016). The Caribbean-Global Coral Reef so that changes in reef health can be gauged. At Monitoring Network (GCRMN) protocol was used the moment STENAPA is doing a nature damage to assess the health of St. Eustatius’s coral reef assessment ecosystems (Table 1) and the island’s fish popu- to determine the damage caused by hurricanes lation was additionally evaluated through the Irma and Maria. CARIPES survey (EU BEST project) 1. GCRMN

Table 1: Elements of the coral reef ecosystem that the GCRMN method uses to assess its health

Elements of the coral reef ecosystem

1 Abundance and biomass of key reef fish taxa (i.e. parrotfish, surgeon fish, groupers, snappers) Relative cover of reef-building organisms (corals, coralline algae) and their dominant competitors 2 (macroalgae) 3 Assessment of health of reef-building corals 4 Recruitment of reef-building corals 5 Abundance of key macro-invertebrate species (i.e. Diadema antillarum) 6 Water quality (i.e. water transparency (Secchi-disk)

2 Table 2: Summary of major coral reef status surveys conducted on St. Eustatius’ coral reefs.

# Sites Data Contributors Time period Survey Description Surveyed

Post hurricane (Lenny) rapid assessment of AGRRA (Klomp & 1999 reefs including measures on coral cover and 10 Kooistra, 2003) bleaching.

Video assessments for the benthic map and Debrot et al., 2014 2012-2013 869 seascape assessment.

Fisheries baseline assessment of St. White et al., 2006 2004 Eustatius’s 16 Marine Park. 2005, 2007, 2008, Monitoring corals, Diadema antillarum and Reef Check 2 2009, 2010 macroalgae.

Reef fish surveys and measures on substrate McClellan, 2009 2008 17 composition and habitat complexity. Data monitoring 2013-2014 Fish surveys. 15 officer Status and trends of key reef indicators; GCRMN (2015: coral cover, macroalgae cover, coral recruit- CARIPES) (De Graaf 2015-ongoing ment, coral disease, biomass herbivore and 20 et al., 2015; Piontek, commercial fish, macroinvertebrates and 2015, 2016) water quality.

Marine expedition including assessments on the variation in marine species composition and species richness, the marine benthic di- Naturalis 2015 versity (i.e. algae, corals, mollusks, tunicates 40 Biodiversity Center and fishes) and interspecific associations (host species and parasites, commensals, other symbionts).

Scripps Institute Coral reef assessments following the of Oceanography GCRMN protocol and a selection of 11 coral 2016 20 and the WAITT reef environments was mapped using 3D Foundation imagery.

The relative finfish community composition, density and distribution in the shallow Van Kuijk et al., 2015 2015 104 coastal waters of the St. Eustatius Marine Park based on baited video stations.

Post hurricane (Irma & Maria) damage as- STENAPA 2017 So far: 7 sessment of among others coral reefs.

3 2.1 Benthic cover Coral cover

De Graaf et al. (2015) used the Reef Health Index at many places along the shores of St. Eustatius (RHI) to describe the island’s reef status based on but in the 1980’s were almost all killed over the recent survey results. Using the most conservative span of a few years by white-band disease, which results, the overall RHI scored St. Eustatius’s reefs happened throughout the entire Caribbean as “poor” in 2015 (Figure 1) (de Graaf, 2015). The region. (Debrot et al., 2014). coral cover of St. Eustatius’ reefs has declined significantly over the past 15 years. In 2003, the There are indications that under low stress cover of reef-building corals was assessed at 22% conditions coral cover will increase in the future (Klomp and Kooistra, 2003) but hit a historic low as coral recruitment has been assessed as “good”. in 2015/2016 with 5% in 2015 and 5.2% in 2016 (de The density of coral recruits was nearly 12 coral Graaf, 2015; Piontek, 2016). This seems to be the recruits per m2 in 2015 and 10 recruits/m2 in 2016 result of coastal development, coral bleaching (Piontek, 2016). This is much higher than the aver- events and possible water quality issues (erosion) age reported for the Wider Caribbean (~4 coral (MacRae and Esteban, 2007; de Graaf et al., 2015). recruits per m2 between 1997 and 2004) (Kramer, 2003). Forty percent of observed recruits Fifty-two species of stony corals (Scleractinia, belonged to one species, Siderastrea sidereal Milleporidae, Stylasteridae) were observed during (Piontek, 2016). the Naturalis Biodiversity Expedition, 50 of which could be identified with certainty (Hoeksema and Despite the large impacts of Hurricane Irma from van Moorsel, 2016). This is higher than previous last September on land, the short-term impact on coral species counts for the island, due in part to St. Eustatius’s reefs seems to be relatively small. the fact that small azooxanthellate species were First observations show that “in the National included (Hoeksema and van Moorsel, 2016). The Marine Park seven of the most important dive island’s octocoral population was found to be sites have weathered the storm relatively well. similar to Curaçao with poor species diversity. A There is minor damage to the reef. The hard and total of 35 species of octocoral were identified, soft corals such as sea fans retained their cover. with the most common species belonging to the Except for damage to mostly medium-size Giant Plexauridae and Gorgoniidae families (Lau, 2016). Barrel Sponges the sites have retained their cover” Gorgonian seafans, such as Gorgonia mariae, have (BES reporter, 2017). However, the impact on decreased in abundance in Curaçao but are still land where hundreds of trees on the island were common on St. Eustatius (Lau, 2016). Shallow- uprooted and damaged may lead to erosion and water Acropora palmata forests used to be found resulting sediment-runoff onto the island’s reefs.

Figure 1: Reef Health Index trend for St. Eustatius (1999-2016). Source: www.dcbd.nl.

4 “A week later after Hurricane Maria a middle-sized Atlantic: Parvocaulis exiguus (Van der Loos and staghorn field located in the southwest of the island Prud’homme van Reine, 2016). Sponges are also (not a dive site) was devastated. Only small frag- an important competitive benthic group (Loh et ments remain of what was once a reasonable sized al., 2015). The coral reef habitats of St. Eustatius field with healthy bushes of staghorn. appeared to be dominated by macroalgal cover- This field was on a depth of around 10 to 15m, age, next were sponges and finally corals (Debrot shallower than the seven dive sites mentioned et al., 2014). In 2015 sponges were sampled at above. A larger staghorn field to the south of the 36 sites, and 1,457 sponges were recorded, 90% island in the White Wall was similarly affected by of which belonged to the Demospongiae class. both hurricanes, resulting in large scale damage to Barrel sponges and several other sponge species all inspected corals. These colonies have been fully were affected by an unknown type of illness/ destroyed and often no living tissue was found on bleaching (García-Hernández et al., 2016). coral locations and therefore the recovery will take many years. Elkhorn corals have been impacted 2.2 Fish less by both hurricanes, it appears that the stronger attachment to the seafloor makes these corals Herbivores have a crucial role within reefs as stronger and more sturdy” (STENAPA, 2017). they can control seaweed from overgrowing coral (Jackson et al., 2014). The density of the Macroalgae & sponges herbivorous long-spined sea urchin Diadema antillarum is very low (<1 urchin/ m2) following its Many studies have shown how damaging Caribbean-wide mass mortality in 1983/1984 (de macroalgae (seaweed) can be to reef health, Graaf et al., 2015). Statia’s population of herbivore inhibiting coral settlement and recruitment, fish, parrotfish and surgeonfish was “reasonable slowing coral growth and making them more at best” in 2015 as is the case for many parts of the prone to disease (Jackson et al., 2014). The shift Wider Caribbean Region (de Graaf et al., 2015). from coral to macroalgae dominance seen in The species composition around St. Eustatius many parts of the Caribbean has also taken place largely or even fully lacks certain fish species such on St. Eustatius’s reefs. The cover of macroalgae as the parrotfish species S. coeruleus and S. gua- is very high, averaging 28% in 2015 and 27% in camaia due to the natural absence of mangroves 2016 (Piontek, 2010). Of great concern is also (Van Kuijk et al., 2015). While the population of the high cyanobacteria cover, which averaged parrotfish is higher than the Caribbean average, 15% in 2015 and 16.5% in 2016, as it indicates an with a “fair” biomass, the high contribution of sur- increase in local threats, notably eutrophication, geonfish to the catch of the trap fishery is reason and is linked to coral diseases (Piontek, 2016). for concern (de Graaf et al., 2015). The biomass of Cyanobacteria grow over macroalgae so the bio- key herbivorous fish was “very good” in 1999 but mass of this harmful seaweed is likely higher than only scored “fair” in 2008 and 2014. According to what was recorded (Piontek, 2016). Factors such the GCRMN surveys the populations improved as coastal development, coral bleaching events, as in 2015 and 2016 herbivorous fish scored “very possible water quality issues (erosion) good” again (Piontek, 2016). and the reduction of algae grazing herbivores probably played a role for this shift to algal The biomass of predatory fish (groupers and dominance (de Graaf et al., 2015). snappers) - which are targeted by commercial fisheries - is “reasonable” compared to the Wider Macroalgae were sampled at 40 different Caribbean average (de Graaf et al., 2015). One locations during the 2015 Naturalis Biodiversity worrying trend is the near absence of large group- Expedition (Hoeksema, 2016). Specimens and ers and snappers (de Graaf et al., 2015; Piontek samples are now being analyzed in the herbarium et al, 2016; Figure 2). Of all the groupers spotted collection of the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, and during the extensive fish survey of St. Eustatius’s more than 175 species are expected to be docu- reefs with the use of sBRUV, only about 2% mented. A new record has also been made for the belonged to the large grouper species (Van Kuijk

5 et al, 2015). The lack of slow-growing large apex 3. Condition of St. Eustatius’s reefs predators can be a sign of overfishing and is compared to other reefs within the undesirable for population recovery Caribbean Region (de Graaf et al., 2015). The average Caribbean-wide coral cover declined St. Eustatius has a relatively healthy population of sharply between 1970-1983 and 1984-1999 but reef sharks, most likely due to the fact that they has remained stable since 1999 (Jackson et al. are not targeted by coastal fisheries (de Graaf et 2014). “On St Eustatius, however, the trend in coral al., 2015). During the 2015 fish survey, 42 sharks cover continued to decline since 1999 reaching a were sighted during 104 sBRUV deployments historic low level in 2015. Like in the rest of the (de Graaf et al., 2015). Caribbean reef sharks and Wider Caribbean Region, the macroalgal cover has nurse sharks were most often spotted. “As top been high since 2007 and the reef community is at predators, these sharks play an important ecologi- present dominated by macroalgae” (de Graaf et al., cal role in healthy reefs and their higher abundance 2015). The +/- 25% macroalgae cover is similar the around St Eustatius compared to most other areas the average reported for the whole Caribbean. of the Caribbean may contribute to and be a useful indicator of overall coastal ecosystem health” (de Graaf et al., 2015).

Figure 2: Composition of grouper assemblages in Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, southeastern Cuba (GTMO), southeastern Dominican Republic (DR), Florida Keys, Southern and Northern Exumas, and the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP) (redrawn from Chiappone et al., 2000) compared with St Eustatius. From GTMO to ECLSP fishing pressure decreased and management and protection increased. Source: de Graaf et al., 2015.

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6 4. Local stressors on the reef of St. Eustatius

The dramatic decline in the health of St. divert fishing activity from the reef to the pelagic Eustatius’s reefs and the shift from coral to algal environment. dominance is a clear indication that they are under mounting pressure from local, regional and Divers also make great use of St. Eustatius’s global stressors. Local threats must be minimized coral reefs. Snorkelers and divers from all around to enable the recovery of the island’s reefs and the world come to enjoy the island’s unique reef ensure their resilience to mounting global threats formations. The effect of divers on coral reefs is such as ocean warming. Bleaching events, for not clear although there are documented nega- example, have been observed in the Windward tive effects such as broken coral fragments (Lyons Islands since 2005 and have caused significant et al, 2015). damage to coral reefs around St. Eustatius. The severe bleaching event of 2005 led to a great loss There are mounting concerns over St. Eustatius’s in coral cover in some of the island’s shallower water quality and the resulting impact on the reefs. Coral cover loss of 78.6% was recorded in island’s coral reef communities. In the early 2000s, one dive site (Mushroom Gardens) located in the erosion and resulting sedimentation was believed SNMP’s Southern Marine Reserve (MacRae and to most likely be “the key and possibly only major Esteban, 2007). factor impacting water quality on St. Eustatius” (Debrot and Sybesma, 2000). While erosion does Fishermen are the primary users of St. Eustatius’ occur naturally, overgrazing by free-roaming feral reefs. The island’s fisheries are small-scale, with 5 cattle, goats and donkeys has made the problem active fishermen and 15 to 20 small boats (> 10m) much worse. Eutrophication is now also a growing (de Graaf et al., 2015). The annual catch is 18 tons issue. The island has no wastewater treatment per km2/y. The island’s most important fishery is plant and therefore untreated water from septic the Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) with tanks and private cesspits is reaching coastal an annual catch of 11 tons per km2/y, which is the waters and the fringing reefs (de Graaf et al., highest recorded through its range (de Graaf et 2015). Excess nutrients “may stimulate macroalgal al., 2015). One of the main concerns with this fish- growth resulting in overgrown, abraded and even ery is that 41 % of the landed lobsters - which are poisoned stony coral colonies, reduced coral recruit- caught with lobster traps - are under the minimum ment and/or increased coral disease (de Graaf et legal size (de Graaf et al., 2015). al., 2015). Long term monitoring data to assess trends in sedimentation and nutrient levels are The status of St. Eustatius’s mixed reef fish missing. In June 2016 CNSI started taken monthly fishery, with annual catches of 4 tons per km2/y, measurements of nutrients (ammonium, phos- has been found to be “at most reasonable” but in phate and nitrate) in the coastal waters around slightly better shape than the Caribbean average St. Eustatius. Their preliminary results show (de Graaf et al., 2015). While the density of reef that nitrate concentrations are particularly high, fish remains reasonable, there is concern about especially in well water and cistern water (CNSI the high contribution of herbivores to the catch of newsletter, 2016). the trap fishery (de Graaf et al., 2015). Currently, approximately 50 % of the annual mixed reef Another threat to the island’s water quality is fish catch is made up of small groupers and key the oil terminal NuStar. Oil spills, such as the herbivore surgeonfish (de Graaf et al., 2015). October 2012 spill, result in the exposure of corals There is also a near absence of large groupers, to oil, which interrupts coral larvae settlement which is a potential sign of overfishing (Van Kuijk (Hartmann et al, 2015). Chemicals and toxins et al., 2015). To reduce the bycatch of narrow- may also leak into the surrounding water of the bodied surgeonfish, escape slots could potentially terminal (de Graaf et al., 2015). The anti-fouling be introduced. Furthermore, the pelagic fishery is agent Tributyltin (TBT) used on large vessels may underdeveloped and managers could potentially cause Imposex, a disorder in marine snails where

7 female marine snails develop male reproductive Besides, St. Eustatius’s is also dealing with organs (de Graaf et al., 2015). This disorder has invasive species, notably lionfish that were first been observed in Lobatus gigas on St. Eustatius sighted in 2010 and are reported to negatively (de Graaf et al., 2014). Oil tankers can also cause impact native coral fish populations (Albins and direct damage to reefs. Since the early 1980s, Hixon, 2008). Sanguinet (2015) reports that the tankers have anchored in the waters of Oranje culling program on St. Eustatius has been fairly ef- Bay whilst waiting to bunker at St. Eustatius ficient in minimizing the well-established lionfish Terminals. STENAPA has been drawing attention population, with marine park staff killing more to this problem and sending damage reports to than 50% of lionfish observed annually since 2012 the police, harbor master and the Public Entity. in the Southern Marine Reserve. However, this method has diving restrictions, which makes it St. Eustatius’s reefs also face natural pressures difficult to control lionfish at deeper depths including storms, which are likely intensified by (De Léon et al., 2013). global warming (Bender et al., 2010). St. Eustatius is located in the Atlantic hurricane zone, and the An adaptive management plan with “clearly island’s seabed has suffered great damage from defined quantifiable objectives, targets and refer- hurricanes over the past decades. In the late ence points of coral reef health indicators” needs 1990s, six hurricanes hit St. Eustatius and had to be put in place, with all stakeholders involved profound impacts on the island’s reefs (hurricanes in the decision-making process (de Graaf et al., Luis and Marilyn in 1995, hurricane Bertha in 1996, 2015). The annual monitoring of the island’s reefs hurricane Georges in 1998 and hurricanes Jose must also carry on to keep track of changes in reef and Lenny in 1999) (Jackson et al., 2014). Shallow health and assess the efficiency of management coral reefs were the most impacted by the actions (Piontek, 2016). The annual monitoring of series of hurricanes, with many broken colonies 20 sites within the SNMP “provides a 50% chance of branching Acropora palmata. From 2004 to of documenting a change of 5% in coral cover as a 2014, the island was hit by seven hurricanes. Last general guideline” (Piontek, 2016). September St. Eustatius was hit by category five storm Irma and Maria, one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes ever observed. It is important to reduce local threats to increase the resilience of the reefs to the global stressors caused by climate change.

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8 Nature On St. Eustatius Hit Hard By Hurricanes

Nature on St. Eustatius has been heavily af- STENAPA has been working on coral restoration fected by hurricane Irma and Maria that struck projects and unfortunately the coral gardens in the island in the early morning of Wednesday 6 Jenkins Bay (6m under water, 10 coral ladders) September and 19 September. Most visible are and Crooks Castle are gone. The coral gardens are the effects on land. During a preliminary nature part of an EU funded project to grow Elkhorn and damage assessment St. Eustatius National Staghorn coral fragments on tree like structures. Parks Foundation (STENAPA) counted hun- Mother colonies of Staghorn have been nega- dreds of uprooted trees and snapped trunks. tively impacted too.

The quick scan of the island revealed that in The The sand on the beaches on the Caribbean Sea Quill National Park 80 to 90% of the trees on the coast (Orange Bay) has been washed away. Due outer north-western slope and the inner south- to this sea turtles won’t be able to lay their nest eastern slope lost their leaves. As a result the Quill on the short term. Conversely 1 to 2 meters sand looks brown-greyish, instead of vibrant green. At was deposited on Zeelandia Beach on the Atlantic least 20 trees were uprooted and fell blocking the side. All sea turtle nests laid pre-Maria appear to main Quill trail and hundreds of limbs and branch- have been inundated by the sea. Survival rate of es littered the ground. This means that hundreds these nests are expected to be zero to extremely of trees overall on the Quill are down and many low. There were roughly 25 nests on Zeelandia more limbs and branches. The south-eastern part beach. of the crater and the crater trail are also affected, and STENAPA has advised hikers not to enter the Also in the Botanical Garden trees are down, in- crater until the trails have been cleared. cluding numerous branches and limbs. The shade house is destroyed and 2 of the 4 solar panels Outside the National Park STENAPA counted 250 were blown off the roof of the visitors center. trees over a diameter of 1 meter either down or Due to this the drip system doesn’t function any snapped. Of all the districts Oranjestad showed more. STENAPA has submitted a report about the most damage. Trees provide shade, stabilize the results of the preliminary nature damage as- the soil, provide food, provide shelter for wild- sessment to the Public Entity of St. Eustatius and life, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. other stakeholders. Around 95% of the trees along the Caribbean cliff side in Lower Town, many of them old trees, lost their leaves.

In the National Marine Park seven of the most important dive sites have weathered the storm relatively well. There has been minor damage to the reef and corals, hard and soft corals such as sea fans were in tact and coral cover is unaffected although there has been some damage to medium sized Giant Barrel Sponges.

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9 BRUV Work In The Dutch Caribbean

Data collection with stereo Baited Remote sightings at study sites on Belize and the Bahamas Underwater Videos (sBRUV) deployed through- and 50% higher than around the adjacent island out the islands of the Dutch Caribbean over the of Saba (BioNews 1-2017). The other northern past few years is almost completed, with only Dutch Caribbean islands (Saba, St. Eustatius and parts of Bonaire left as final sampling locations. St. Maarten) also appear to have relatively healthy The collected data already gives great insight shark populations, with the two most common into the status of shark populations in the shark species also the Caribbean reef shark and waters around Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, nurse shark (Figure 1). This aligns with early Bonaire, Curaçao and on the Saba Bank (Figure findings that suggested that that northern Dutch 1). Since 2012 researchers from Wageningen Caribbean islands provide ample suitable habitat Marine Research with project leader Dr. Martin for sharks (BioNews 30). While data is so far only de Graaf, in partnership with local partners, available for Bonaire and Curaçao - sBRUVs were have used simple, non-invasive stereo Baited also deployed around Aruba, however the data Remote Underwater Videos (sBRUV) to gather has not yet been processed yet but will be soon- important information on the size, diversity, est – it appears that the Bonaire and Curacao are species composition and abundance and of shark home to fewer shark species than the Windward populations across different management zones islands, with the Caribbean shark by far the most in the Dutch Caribbean. To this date, over 800 common. sBRUV videos have been deployed across the Dutch Caribbean, including 103 around Bonaire (and continuing), 164 around Curacao, 108 around Saba, 164 on the Saba Bank, 104 around Stereo-BRUV surveys St. Eustatius and 214 around St. Maarten. Sint Maarten: A first look to the data (Figure 1), shows that https://vimeo.com/131461221 the Saba Bank has the highest abundance of https://vimeo.com/125898375 sharks. The two most common species are the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0zFScMDyQE nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) and the Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi). Researchers on early expeditions to the Saba Bonaire Bank recorded seeing sharks on every dive and https://vimeo.com/190565371 on average, BRUV deployments recorded 0.23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0rQUYFvuoU reef shark sightings per hour, which is higher than

BRUV deployment on Bonaire. Credit: Nijs Ruijs, Hogeschool Zeeland, WUR

10 Another interesting finding from this study is worldwide point to a drastic decline in that the Dutch Caribbean is home to several elasmobranch populations over the last few threatened shark species, and while these may be decades (Ruijs & Hogeschool, 2017). While this incidental it suggests that our islands could play study is the first of its kind, and therefore no an important role in the conservation of sharks. trends can be found, initial results can be The silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) which compared to others in the Caribbean and the rest is listed as Near Threatened in the IUCN Red List, of the world. Repeating the study in a few years and the great hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran), will enable comparison and willSABA highlight whether which is listed as Endangered, were both observed the many conservation measuresBANK taken in the SABA STATIA around Saba and Bonaire. The Near Threatened Dutch Caribbean to protect sharks - such as the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) was frequently declaration of the Yarari marine mammal and observed around St. Maarten and the Saba Bank. shark sanctuary - are being successful.

The information on sharks gathered by the BRUV SABA is incredibly important as prior to this study no BANK SABA STATIA data on shark populations in the Dutch Caribbean was available and studies that have taken place ST MAARTEN BONAIRE CURAÇAO SABA BANK SABA STATIA

Figure 1: Percentage of seeing a shark on a BRUV deployment.

ST MAARTEN BONAIRE CURAÇAO Blacktip Shark Great Hammerhead Spotted Eagle Ray

Nurse Shark Silky Shark Manta Ray SABA BANK SABA STATIA Reef Shark Southern Stingray No Shark seen

ST Tiger Shark Roughtail Stingray MAARTEN BONAIRE CURAÇAO Blacktip Shark Great Hammerhead Spotted Eagle Ray

Nurse Shark Silky Shark Manta Ray

Reef Shark Southern Stingray No Shark seen

Tiger Shark Roughtail Stingray ST MAARTEN BONAIREBlacktip Shark GreatCURAÇAO Hammerhead Spotted Eagle Ray Nurse Shark Silky Shark Manta Ray

Reef Shark Southern Stingray No Shark seen

Tiger Shark Roughtail Stingray

Blacktip Shark Great Hammerhead Spotted Eagle Ray

Nurse Shark Silky Shark Manta Ray

Reef Shark Southern Stingray No Shark seen

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11 Impact of Terrestrial Invasive Grazing on Bonaire: case study

By Michaela Roberts address this funding gap and tackle the issue of (PhD student from the University of St Andrews, feral pigs (page 16) and to eradicate goats from UK in partnership with Echo) the Washington Slagbaai National Park (Table 1).

Long periods of isolation and small island size Bonaire’s vegetation is severely under threat make island ecosystems highly vulnerable to due to grazing pressure from introduced species. degradation and invasive species are one of the Vegetation surveys of Bonaire have shown that most significant threats (Cronk, 1997). Due to across the island trees are in low abundance, with their role as livestock, introduced species such as limited species richness, and small size (Roberts sheep, goats, pigs, cows and donkeys are some 2017a). of the most common invasive species worldwide (Island conservation, 2015). Introduced grazing The densities of free roaming goats, pigs and species consume island vegetation at a rate donkeys vary spatially and seasonally across the faster than it is able to regenerate, and islands island. Hotspots of goat density have been identi- with invasive grazers are characterised by few, fied in the north and east of Bonaire (Figure 1). small trees of limited species, and low grass, During the wet season (from November to March) herb, and shrub cover (Dahlin et al., 2014). donkey populations are concentrated in the east and around the town of Rincon, with no hotspots Terrestrial degradation caused by invasive grazing identified in the dry season (Figure 1). Pig density species can impact coastal ecosystems. Degraded is low across the island. vegetation has fewer roots, which would otherwise anchor soils, and has reduced surface com- This variation in grazer density is associated plexity, leading to increased sediment run-off. with changes in vegetation ground cover. Not For coral reef ecosystems sediment run-off is surprisingly, the presence of grass has a negative associated with coral mortality, reduced coral relationship to pig presence and goat density. growth rates, and changes in reef fish populations Combined grass and herb percentage cover is (Fabricius, 2005). High sediment loads reduce negatively related to donkey density during the visibility for SCUBA divers. With many islands, dry season (Roberts et al., 2017a). Tree character- including the Dutch Caribbean islands, drawing istics do not vary with grazing pressure, indicating much of their revenue from marine based tourism, that grazing pressure already exceeds that of tree it is therefore in economic interest of the islands recovery island-wide. (Roberts et al., 2017a). as well as the interests of conservation managers to recognise the threat posed by invasive grazing The degradation caused to terrestrial ecosystems species. by invasive grazing species is associated with changes in coral reef characteristics on Bonaire. Although the ecological impacts of invasive Coral cover below depths of 10m has a positive re- grazing species are well documented, funding lationship to ground cover and tree biomass of the and lack of social acceptability for the most associated watershed (Roberts et al., 2017a). In cost effective solutions are key factors limiting light of the negative relationship of ground cover effective conservation action (Roberts et al., to donkey density, conservation efforts aimed at manuscript in preparation). On Bonaire the local controlling donkey grazing can be expected to Government backed projects, which are now lead to improvements in coral cover. being funded by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs under theirNature Fund initiative, seek to

The Nature Funding Projects on Bonaire can be followed on Facebook: @NTBDN

12 Table 1: Nature Funding projects on terrestrial invasive grazing species control.

Nature Funding projects As part of the 2013-2017 Nature Policy Plan for the Caribbean Netherlands, 22 projects that promote coral reef conservation, sustainable use of nature or the synergy of sustainable use of nature in combination with agriculture and tourism were approved to receive funding through the Nature Fund allocated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs for the BES islands. Ten projects received funding on Bonaire, 7 on Saba and 5 on St. Eustatius.

The following projects focus on terrestrial invasive grazing species control:

Project Islands Lead scientist(s) Goal Activities

Protecting nature and Shooting/ slaughter- Government of Goat buy-back agriculture by significantly ing, storing, selling SAB Saba: program decreasing the amount of and/or exporting the Randall Johnson roaming goats. meat.

Recovery of habitats so Feral pig density they are better able to assessment, pig Echo: Julianka provide services for people eradication, raising Clarenda Feral Pig and nature, improved awareness and BON DRO: Frank van Control conditions for agriculture support, monitoring Slobbe and increased community program for support for invasive spe- evaluation of cies management. interventions.

Bringing the number of goats down in Slagbaai and Washington, practice and train Goat locals and park staff eradication Draw the goat population STINAPA to effective goat and control in down to a manageable BON DRO: Frank van control, monitoring Washington level within 3 years so that Slobbe program for Slagbaai the vegetation can recover evaluation of National Park interventions, developing long-term control programme, outreach and communication.

13 Figure 1: Map of grazer densities across Bonaire.

On Bonaire the effects of donkey grazing could be For long-term improvements in environmental reduced either through creation of fenced areas, conservation on Bonaire it would therefore be in or by controlling or eradicating donkey popula- the interests of managers and policy makers to tions. Using the relationships described above it is develop a program to increase social acceptability predicted that both measures would have a posi- of donkey eradication (Roberts et al., manuscript tive impact on both ground cover and coral cover, in preparation). with larger impacts seen for eradication (Table 2) (Roberts et al., manuscript in preparation). The connection between grazer caused degradation within the terrestrial ecosystem and degrada- Studies on the control of invasive grazing species tion on the coral reef through sediment run-off on Bonaire indicate that eradications are likely may present the opportunity to secure additional to have the greatest positive impact on both the funding for conservation through increasing the terrestrial and marine ecosystems (Roberts et al., existing SCUBA diver fee. Surveys conducted with 2017a). However, low social acceptability may SCUBA divers estimate a willingness to pay of preclude this option in the short term. Although $83/diver/year for reef improvements expected to the cost of fencing is initially lower than eradica- arise through fencing, and $93/diver/year for tion, the lifespan of only 10 years means that eradication (Roberts et al., 2017b). This would total costs exceed that of eradication within 30 exceed the estimated costs of control programs years (Roberts et al., manuscript in preparation). (Roberts et al., 2017

Table 2: Trade-offs between fencing and eradicating donkey populations for recovery of the dry-forest and coral reef.

Fencing Eradication

Median ground cover 14% 18% (current 4%) Median coral cover 85% 90% (current 46%) Economic costs $2.5 million $8.8 - $12.9 million Length of control 10 years Permanent Social acceptability (0 to 2) 1.48 0.8

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14 Bonaire Launches Feral Pig Control Programme

The aim of this project is to control feral pig feral pigs are not highly valued by the local com- populations on Bonaire, thereby improving munity and can cause considerable damage to conditions for reforestation, reducing impacts on property by burrowing through fences to access native dry-forest habitat and minimizing damage food sources such as gardens and fields. to fences and property. Activities will focus on raising awareness about the impact of feral pigs, Pigs have a high reproductive rate, producing reducing feral pig populations and monitoring up to 8 piglets a year and reach sexual maturity project effectiveness. It is hoped that early inter- early, which coupled with a lack of natural preda- vention will ensure the feral pig population and tors, means that feral populations can increase the associated problems do not escalate beyond extremely rapidly. Under optimal conditions their current state and become unmanageable. populations can grow by 500% in just 12 to 15 months. Systematic surveys have yet to be carried A team from Echo Foundation, a local non-profit out, but sightings indicate that there are currently which focuses on parrot protection and reforesta- between 500 and 1000 feral pigs on Bonaire. Adult tion, has been evaluating the impact of feral pigs boars on Bonaire are known to reach 60kg and can on local flora since 2016, monitoring pig activity have 8cm long tusks. and removing pigs from the wild. With funding from the Netherlands’ Ministry of Economic Feral pigs have a high negative impact on native Affairs through the Nature Fund, staff at Echo vegetation, damaging roots and preventing the Foundation are launching a public campaign and regeneration of trees (Campbell & Long, 2009). calling for assistance to locate and control feral They are generalists and can be found throughout pig numbers. They have set up a Pig Hotline to a range of habitats. Signs of feral pig activity report pig sightings and are collecting data on pig include ground that is heavily disturbed and tram- numbers, size and colouration. Pigs removed from pled, plants which have been dug up and/or have the wild will be slaughtered and the meat offered had their roots exposed (Friebel & Jodice, 2009). for sale and given as prizes in pig meat raffles. Feral pigs are susceptible to high temperatures and highly dependent on water. They are found in Pigs, along with goats and donkeys, were first high densities around shady areas with water. brought to Bonaire by the Spanish in the 1500s. Whilst pigs are not exactly new comers to the Although this is not the case in Rincon, pigs in the island, feral pig populations have only become wild tend to be cautious and avoid human contact, established on Bonaire in the last decade. Escaped which can make them difficult to track and catch. domestic pigs become feral in just two genera- Efforts to trap feral pigs, need to be immediately tions. Unlike goats and donkeys, where measures successful as the pigs quickly learn to avoid the traps. to control populations have little public support,

Echo is a non-profit organisation focused on the conservation of the Yellow- shouldered Amazon parrot (Amazona barbadensis) and the dry-forest ecosystems of Bonaire.

One of their objectives is to restore ecosystems on Bonaire through creative conservation and inspire an appreciation of nature through stimulating sustainable use. Echo aims to fulfil this mission through research and monitoring, conservation management and outreach education.

Website: http://www.echobonaire.org

15 Research Overview October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Suitability study and reforestation of exclosures facilitating the Yellow- Birds BON Echo: Lauren Schmaltz, Quirijn Coolen shouldered Amazon Parrots (Amazona barbadensis) on Bonaire

Impact of predators Echo: Lauren Schmaltz, Quirijn Coolen and poachers on fledging University of Bangor: Adam Curry (student) Birds BON success of the Yellow- and shouldered Amazon parrots Zak Maynard (student)

Surveys (based on AGRRA and GCRMN) for the WUR: Erik Meesters Coral Reef assessment of fish and BON Student: Roger Meijs, Sil Piek, Sarah Veillat, ecosystems benthos communities Yun Scholten including corals, algae, sponges to 20 m depth

Naturalis: Bert Hoeksema Coral Reef Coral-associated fauna of CUR Leiden University ecosystems Curaçao CARMABI

Distribution and impact Naturalis: Bert Hoeksema Coral Reef of the invasive reef coral Leiden University: Auke-Florian Hiemstra CUR ecosystems Tubastraea coccinaea on (student) the coral reefs of Curaçao CARMABI Distribution and impact Naturalis: Bert Hoeksema Coral reef of the aggressive ascidian CUR Leiden University: Gabriël Olthof (student) ecosystems Trididemnum solidum on CARMABI the coral reefs of Curaçao 3D reconstruction as a monitoring strategy for University of Oxford: Julia Huisman Coral reef coral reef restoration of BON School of Geography and the Environment restoration Acropora palmata on CRFB Bonaire The Economics of Wolfs Company: Esther Wolfs, Boris van Economics of Ecosystems and Zanten AUA ecosystems Biodiversity (TEEB) on VU: Pieter van Beukering Aruba YABI consultancy: Francielle Laclé SAB Environmental Damage SCF: Kai Wulf Environmental EUX after Hurricane Irma and STENAPA: Clarisse Buma damage SXM Maria NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets

16 October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Erosion around Kralendijk *Part of Nature Funding DRO Erosion BON Project: Erosion control VU: Nick Roos (student) and nature restoration

WUR: Erwin Winter, Dolfi Debrot, Martin de Baited Remote Graaf, Twan Stoffers Fish Underwater Video BON STINAPA (BRUV) to study sharks HAS: Mavelly Velandia (student) WUR: Sander Delacauw (student)

Distribution of local and regional surgeon- CIEE: Rita Peachey, Franziska Elmer, Madeline Fish fish disease using a BON Roth, Lucia novel technique - Google Rodriguez, Sasha Giammetti, Megan Hoag Images.

Identification of the University of North Texas: Zac Kohl (PhD parasite and hosts of the Candidate) Fish BON turbellarian infecting reef CIEE: Franziska Elmer; Rita Peachey; Lisa fish species in Bonaire Kram; Ashley Novak; Andrew Paton

KITLV, Leiden University: Stacey Mac Donald (PhD student) Fishery Mas Piska pa Boneiru BON (Funded by WWF - Netherlands & KITLV / Royal Netherlands Institute of Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies)

Research into mitigation NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets Invasive species measures for Sargassum SXM Government of St. Maarten Seaweed

Environmental DNA (eDNA) of lionfish in Lac Bay: A tool for detect- CIEE: Rita Peachey Invasive species BON ing the invasive species Indiana University: Stephen Glaholt in complex habitats (mangroves)

Pilot-scale testing and evaluation of mangrove ecosystem intervention options (fish fauna, WUR: Dolfi Debrot, Douwe Boerstra (stu- Mangrove epibionts on mangrove dent), Laura Timmerman (student) BON ecosystems prop roots) *Part of STINAPA: Sabine Engel Nature Funding Project: Ecological restoration Lac Bay and South coast, Bonaire

17 October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Wolfs Company: Boris van Zanten, Esther Nature Policy Developing a nature BON Wolfs, Sacha van Duren Planning policy plan for Bonaire DRO Exclusion of invasive herbivores: A comparison Echo: Quirijn Coolen Plants BON study of vegation at Roi WUR: Pieter Zuidema, Jessie Foest (student) Sango.

Germination of seeds Plants of indigenous trees of CUR CARMABI: John de Freitas Curaçao

Testing effective ways to Plants BON Echo: Quirijn Coolen, Johan van Blerk grow native plants

The effects of the rapidly WUR: Erik Boman (PhD student) spreading invasive sea- CNSI: Johan Stapel Seagrass grass Halophila stipulacea Ecological Professionals Foundation: EUX, SXM ecosystems on the growth of Hannah Madden juvenile Queen Conch NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets (Lobatus gigas) *Funded by NuStar

Long term projects

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Deep Reef Observation Coral Reef Project (DROP) (ARMS: CUR Smithsonian: Carole Baldwin Ecosystems Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures)

Postsettlement dynamics UvA: Valerie Chamberland (PhD candidate) Coral Reef of Caribbean corals & CUR CARMABI Ecosystems Reef restoration SECORE International

NIOZ: Fleur van Duyl Coral Reef Bioersion of reefs by BON,CUR, WUR: Erik Meesters, Didier de Bakker (PhD Ecosystems coral-excavating sponges SAB, EUX student)

18 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

CRF Bonaire: Augusto Montbrun, Francesca Virdis Development of restora- SECORE Project Coral Reef tion methods for threat- BON, CUR, CARMABI: Mark Vermeij Ecosystems ened Caribbean coral SAB UvA: Valerie Chamberland (PhD candidate) species SCF, Sea Saba, Samford University: Jennifer Rahn Developing a plan to manage the waters around Curaçao sustain- Coral Reef ably, profitably, and Waitt Institute (Blue Halo Curaçao): CUR Ecosystems enjoyably for this and Kathryn Mengerink future generations - including mesophotic reef dropcam project

Dutch Caribbean Species Catalog: Taxonomic knowledge system Dutch Naturalis: Sander Pieterse & Berry van der Database All Caribbean (http://www. Hoorn dutchcaribbeanspecies. org/)

Effects of dispersants on the fate of oil in realistic WUR: Tinka Murk, Environmental conditions (C-IMAGE EUX Marieke Zeinstra-Helfrich (PhD student) consortium, TripleP@Sea CNSI Program)

Ecotoxicological aspects of rational application of chemicals in response to oil spills to reduce environmental damage WUR: Tinka Murk, Sophie Vonk (PhD student) Development of an area Environmental EUX Lei Wageningen UR: Stijn Reinhard specific net environ- CNSI mental and economic benefit analysis (NEEBA) to support oil spill mitigation decisions; with St. Eustatius as example

Moleculair biodi- Interstitial versity analysis of Naturalis: Arjen speksnijder EUX biodiversity marine communities by ANEMOON: Niels Schrieken metabarcoding

Combatting the economic and ecological impacts of Invasive species BON UsA: Michaela Roberts (PhD student) overgrazing on inhabited islands

19 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

STINAPA Sabine Engel, Caren Eckrich Marine Taxonomy and biodiver- BON Ecosub: Godfried van Moorsel ecosystems sity in Lac Bay CEAB: Daniel Martin

Naturalis: Bert Hoeksema Marine Marine species discover- All CNSI ecosystems ies in the Dutch Caribbean CARMABI

Population dynamics and WUR: Aad Smaal, Leo Nagelkerke, Martin de role in the food chain of Graaf Molluscs the Queen Conch Lobatus EUX, SAB Erik Boman (PhD student) gigas in the Dutch SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga Caribbean Territories CNSI

DNA waterscan: Monitoring disease Naturalis: Kevin Beentjes Public Health EUX vectors in the Caribbean ECPHF: Teresa Leslie (mosquitoes and midges)

Sustainable development Dutch Caribbean (TripleP@Sea Program) - Are human activities WUR: Diana Slijkerman Sustainability a risk for ecosystem EUX WUR (Alterra): Rene Henkens services? CNSI - Green Statia or how to regain balance between nature and agriculture? Baseline assessments Naturalis: Michael Stech, Berry van der Terrestrial and DNA barcoding Hoorn, Jeremy Miller EUX biodiversity of biodiversity of St. STENAPA Eustatius CNSI

NWO Projects in the Dutch Caribbean

Stand-alone production WUR: R.H. Wijffels Bioproducts of algal products for food, BON CIEE: Rita Peachey feed, chemicals and fuels

Caribbean coral reef ecosystems: interactions of anthropogenic ocean NIOZ: Fleur van Duyl, Steven van Heuzen Coral Reef acidification and eutroph- BON, SAB, (PostDoc), Alice Webb (PhD student) Ecosystems ication with bioerosion by EUX STENAPA coral excavating sponges CNSI - Bioerosion and climate change

20 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

NWO Projects in the Dutch Caribbean

VHL: Alwin Hylkema, Marlous Heemstra WUR: Dolfi Debrot STENAPA: Jessica Berkel, Erik Houtepen Coral Artificial Reefs On Saba SAB SCF: Kai Wulf, Jens Odinga, Aymi Izioka restoration and Statia (AROSSTA) EUX CNSI: Johan Stapel Students: Callum Reid, Esmee vd Griend, Daniel Heesink

Caribbean island AUA, BON, VU: Jacintha Ellers, Matt Helmus, Wendy Environmental biogeography meets the CUR, EUX, Jesse (PhD. Student), Jocelyn Behm (Postdoc) anthropocene SXM CNSI

Confronting Caribbean Challenges: Hybrid Identities and Governance in Small-scale Island KITLV, Leiden University: Gert Oostindie Environmental Jurisdictions BON, SAB, (Project director) psychology - Behavioral differences EUX KITLV, Leiden University: Stacey Mac Donald between/within the BES (PhD student) islands when it comes to nature conservation and cultural heritage. Stability of Caribbean coastal ecosystems under UU: Henk Dijkstra, NIOZ: Peter Herman, future extreme sea level Rebecca James (PhD student) TU Delft: Julie BON, EUX, Geosciences changes (SCENES) Pietrzak SXM - The effects of climate STENAPA change on calcifying CNSI algae 4D crust-mantle modelling of the eastern Caribbean region: toward UU: Wim Spakman coupling deep driving NIOZ: Lennart de Nooijer Geomorphological EUX processes to surface Alfred Wegener Institute Germany evolution CNSI - Reconstructing past climate change

Exotic plant species in the Caribbean: foreign foes or (1) UU: Jetske Vaas (PhD student), Peter alien allies? Driessen, Frank van Laerhoven and Mendel (1) Socio-economic BON, SAB, Giezen (2) UU: Elizabeth Haber (PhD stu- Invasive species impacts of invasive plant EUX dent), Martin Wassen, Max Rietkerk,Maarten species (2) Ecological Eppinga. impacts of invasive CNSI plant species-Utrecht University

21 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

NWO Projects in the Dutch Caribbean

RuG: Per Palsbøll, Jurjan van der Zee (PhD student) Ecology and conservation RU: Marjolijn Christianen, AUA, BON, of green and hawksbill WUR: Lisa Becking Reptiles CUR, SAB, turtles in the Dutch STCB: Mabel Nava EUX, SXM Caribbean CARMABI STENAPA CNSI

Vulnerability is dynamic: Enhancing adaptive Tourism and governance to climate WUR: Jillian Student, Machiel Lamers sustainable CUR change for Caribbean UOC: Filomeno A. Marchena development tourism through interac- tive modelling

BO-projects in the Dutch Caribbean (Min EZ)

BO-11-019.02-038– Coral Reef Analysis photomaterial BON, CUR WUR: Erik Meesters Ecosystems coral reefs BO-11-019.02-022 – Inventory corals Coral Reef Includes monitoring and BON, CUR WUR: Erik Meesters Ecosystems research of the longest coral reef time-series in the world (since 1973) BO-11-019.02-060 – WUR: Dolfi Debrot, Rene Henkens, Peter Status of nature conser- BON, SAB, Verweij Conservation vation of the Caribbean EUX EZ: Paul Hoetjes, Yoeri de Vries (eds.) Netherlands (for new nature policy plan)

BO-11-019.02-002 - AUA, BON, DCBD Expansion knowledge CUR, SAB, WUR (Alterra): Peter Verweij system Dutch Caribbean EUX, SXM

WUR: Dolfi Debrot BO-11-019.02-055 – Thomas Brunel, Martin de Graaf Fisheries Fisheries Dutch SAB, EUX SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga, Ayumi Izioka Caribbean NIOZ: Kimani Kitson-Walters Students: Fedor den Elzen, Ivo Damen

22 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

BO-projects in the Dutch Caribbean (Min EZ)

BO-11-019.02-008 – WUR: Erik Meesters (benthic communities), Marine Saba Bank – Marine SAB Dolfi Debrot, Thomas Brunel, Leo Nagelkerke biodiversity biodiversity (fish stocks)

BO-11-019.02-054 WUR: Dolfi Debrot, Dick de Haan, Meike Marine mam- – Marine mammal SAB, EUX Scheidat, Ayumi Izioka mals & sharks sanctuary SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga

BO-11-019.02-005 – Marine BON, SAB, Marine mammals in the WUR: Dolfi Debrot mammals EUX Dutch Caribbean

WUR: Dolfi Debrot BO-11-019.02-050 – Wolfs Co.: Esther Wolfs World Heritage World Heritage nomina- UNESCO: Josephine Langley BON nomination tion Bonaire National DRO: Frank v Slobbe Marine Park CARMABI: Mark Vermeij, John de Freitas Curacao Footprint Foundation: Leon Pors

“Nature Funding” Projects in the Dutch Caribbean (Min EZ)

Coastal ecosys- Ecological restoration STINAPA: Sabine Engel tems (Lac Bay: Lac Bay and South coast, WUR: Klaas Metselaar BON Mangroves and Bonaire STCB: Mabel Nava seagrass beds) DRO: Frank van Slobbe

The sustainable agricul- Bonaire Agri & Aqua Business BV: Sherwin Sustainable ture and rural develop- Pourier BON Agriculture ment program (POP Wayaká Advies BV: Jan Jaap van Almenkerk Bonaire) DRO: Frank van Slobbe Echo: Julianka Clarenda Invasive species Feral Pig Control BON DRO: Frank van Slobbe Echo: Lauren Schmaltz, Quirijn Coolen Reforestation Reforestation Project BON DRO: Frank van Slobbe

Goat eradication and STINAPA Invasive species control in Washington BON DRO: Frank van Slobbe Slagbaai National Park

Coral CRF Bonaire: Augusto Montbrun Coral Restoration BON ecosystems DRO: Frank van Slobbe

23 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

“Nature Funding” Projects in the Dutch Caribbean (Min EZ)

World Heritage Wolfs Company: Esther Wolfs, Boris van World Heritage Nomination Bonaire BON Zanten, Amilcar Guzman, Viviana Lujan nomination Marine Park and/or other DRO: Frank van Slobbe interconnected sites

Bonaire Agri & Aqua Business BV: Sherwin Terrestrial Erosion control and Pourier BON ecosystems nature restoration Wayaká Advies BV: Jan Jaap van Almenkerk DRO: Frank van Slobbe

Terrestrial Cave and karst nature DRO: Frank van Slobbe BON ecosystems reserve CARIBSS: Fernando Simal

Nature Campaign environment BON DRO: Frank van Slobbe, Peter Montanus communication and nature on Bonaire

Agriculture Horicultural Project SAB Government of Saba: Randall Johnson

Recreation Hiking trails SAB Government of Saba: Robert Zagers

Pollution Tent Reef Protection SAB Government of Saba: Robert Zagers

Invasive species Goat buy-back program SAB Government of Saba: Randall Johnson

Government of Saba Yacht mooring project SAB SCF: Kai Wulf

Government of Saba Saba national park SAB SCF: Kai Wulf SABARC: Ryan Espersen

Government of Saba: Robert Zagers Crispeen trail project SAB SCF: Kai Wulf

Government of St Eustatius Community Nature Awareness project EUX STENAPA: Clarisse Buma outreach CNSI: Johan Stapel, Hannah Madden

Nature Strengthening manage- Government of St Eustatius EUX management ment of nature STENAPA: Clarisse Buma

24 CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

“Nature Funding” Projects in the Dutch Caribbean (Min EZ)

Government of St Eustatius Rodent assessment and Invasive species EUX CNSI: Johan Stapel, Hannah Madden control ECPHF: Teresa Leslie

Government of St Eustatius Coral Coral restoration EUX STENAPA: Jessica Berkel ecosystems CNSI: Johan Stapel

Government of St Eustatius Erosion Erosion control EUX CNSI: Johan Stapel

EU-BEST funded Projects in the Dutch Caribbean

Marine Directie Natuur en Milieu: Gisbert Boekhoudt Marine Park Aruba AUA ecosystems TNO: Kris Kats

WUR: Erik Meesters SCF STENAPA Restoration Ecosystem NFSXM Coral Reef SAB, EUX, Services and Coral Reef Turks & Caicos Reef Fund Ecosystems SXM Quality (Project RESCQ) Students: Niels Wagenaar, Silvan Allard, Pam Engelberts, Roxanne Francisca, Lotte Staat, Carmen Carpendale, Daniela Simal, Emma Louise Pratt, Renate Olie, Amber Mulder

Watershed & Biodiversity Conservation Conservation of Roi BON Echo: Lauren Schmaltz, Quirijn Coolen Sangu valley

EPIC (Project lead): Kippy Gilders Subcontractors: Terrestrial Restoration of Key Les Fruits des Mer: Mark Yokoyama (reptile, habitat Biodiversity Areas of St. SXM amphibian, and invertebrate assessment) restoration Maarten The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, Bahamas: Ethan Freid (plant assessment)

25 Monitoring Overview October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

DRO: Frank van Slobbe Birds Flamingo Abundance BON Cargill STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol

Monitoring vulnerable Birds parrot nests (remote BON Echo: Laura Schmaltz, Sam Williams camera sensing work)

Yellow-shouldered Echo: Lauren Schmaltz Birds Amazon parrot roost BON DRO: Peter Montanus counts STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol

FPNA Bird Monitoring AUA DLVV: Tatiana Becker Birds (Caribbean Waterbird BON STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol Census) SXM EPIC: Adam Brown

STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol Tern monitoring(artificial Cargill Birds BON nesting islands) DRO WUR: Dolfi Debrot

Terrestrial Bird Echo: Lauren Schmaltz Birds Monitoring Program for BON STINAPA Bonaire

Red-billed Tropicbird SAB STENAPA Birds monitoring EUX SCF: Kai Wulf

Birds Pelican monitoring SXM NFSXM: Melanie Meijer zu Schlochtern

Coral reef Coral Bleaching SXM NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets ecosystems Monitoring

STINAPA: Caren Eckrich BON CARMABI: Mark Vermeij CUR Coral reef Global Coral Reef SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga SAB ecosystems Monitoring Network STENAPA: Jessica Berkel EUX NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets SXM CNSI: Johan Stapel

Corals reef Doobies Crack reef dam- EUX STENAPA: Erik Houtepen ecosystems age recovery survey

Corals reef Staghorn coral field EUX STENAPA: Jessica Berkel ecosystems monitoring survey

26 October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Monitoring and research of the longest coral reef WUR: Erik Meesters, Didier de Bakker (PhD Coral reef time-series in the world BON student) ecosystems (since 1973) CUR NIOZ: Fleur van Duyl, Rolf Bak (Part of BO-11-019.02- 022 –Inventory corals)

Coral reef monitoring Coral reef (Since 2007 using AGRRA BON CIEE: Rita Pearchey ecosystems methods and filming of permanent transects)

NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets Environmental Water quality testing SXM EPIC: Natalia Collier

Nutrient (phosphate, ammonium, nitrate and Environmental EUX CNSI: Johan Stapel nitrite) monitoring of St Eustatius’ coastal waters

WUR: Erwin Winter, Dolfi Debrot, Martin de Shark monitoring: BON Graaf -Shark sightings CUR STINAPA: Caren Eckrich - Shark Abundance, Fish SAB CARMABI: Mark Vermeij distribution and move- SXM SCF(SBMU): Jens Odinga, Ayumi Izioka ments (tagging, acoustic EUX STENAPA: Jessica Berkel telemetry) NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets

Spawning monitoring: SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga, Ayumi Izioka Fish Red hind surveys on SAB Moonfish Bank

Insects Bee tracking BON Echo: Lauren Schmaltz

Goat and/or donkey removal: - Washington Slagbaai STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol National Park BON WUR: Dolfi Debrot Invasive species - Lac Bay area EUX DRO: Frank van Slobbe (exclusion plots) STENAPA - Quill National Park (exclusion plots)

BON STINAPA: Paulo Bertuol (50 meter traps) CUR CARMABI: Mark Vermeij Lionfish abundance and Invasive species SXM NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets control SAB SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga EUX STENAPA: Jessica Berkel

27 October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Monkey Monitoring: Invasive species abundance and SXM NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets distribution

Feral pig population as- Echo: Nathan Schmaltz, Sam Williams Invasive species BON sessment (trapping)

FPNA AUA Mammals Bat monitoring WildConscience: Fernando Simal, Linda BON Garcia

Dolphin monitoring Mammals BON Ron Sewell (since 1999)

NOAA: Heather Heenehan, Sofie Van Parijs, Caribbean Humpback Peter Corkeron, Fred Wenzel Acoustic Monitoring Mammals BON, AUA STINAPA: Wijnand de Wolf Programme (CHAMP) AMMF: Angiolina Henriquez RCN: Paul Hoetjes

Marine Mammal WUR: Dick de Haan, Dolfi Debrot Mammals Monitoring (noise loggers SAB SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga, Ayumi Izioka Saba Bank)

Conch (Strombus gigas) WUR: Martin de Graaf, Erik Boman (PhD SAB Molluscs on St. Eustatius, Saba student) EUX Bank, Anguilla SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga

Fishery monitoring (including lionfish, shark SCF (SBMU): Jens Odinga, Ayumi Izioka bycatch and marine mam- Gem City Consulting: Erik Boman Natural resource SAB mal sightings) LVV: Kiman Kitson-Walters use EUX (* Part of BO-11-019.02- WUR: Dolfi Debrot, Fedor den Elzen (stu- 055 – Fisheries Dutch dent), Ivo (student) Damen Caribbean)

Phenology of bats in cacti Plants AUA WildConscience: Linda Garcia, FPNA landscapes of Aruba

Monitoring of tree growth Plants and survivorship in BON Echo: Quirijn Coolen, Nicholas Verhey reforestation areas

Terrestrial Habitat Plants Monitoring Program for BON Echo: Lauren Schmaltz Bonaire Lesser Antillean Iguana: Monitoring population STENAPA Reptiles density & removing EUX RAVON: Tim van Wagensveld invasive Green Iguana EcoPro: Hannah Madden and hybrids

28 October 2017

CATEGORY SUBJECT ISLANDS ORGANIZATION(S): LEAD SCIENTIST

Boa and Cascabel FPNA, Toledo Zoological Society: Andrew Reptiles AUA Monitoring Odum

Behavior of the endemic FPNA, Auburn University: Jeff Goessling Reptiles AUA Aruban Whiptail lizard (PhD candidate)

Seagrass and mangrove Seagrass and STINAPA: Sabine Engel, Caren Eckrich monitoring BON mangrove WUR: Klaas Metselaar (BON: also conch and SXM ecosystems NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets benthic fauna)

Seagrass and RU: Marjolijn Christianen Seagrass restoration mangrove BON STINAPA : Sabine Engel BESE elements ecosystems

Sea turtle monitoring: TurtugAruba Foundation -Satellite tracking STCB: Mabel Nava -Nest monitoring AUA, BON, CARMABI (STCC): Sabine Berendse Reptiles -In water surveys (BON, CUR, SAB, STENAPA: Jessica Berkel CUR, SXM) EUX, SXM SCF: Kai Wulf -Fibropapillomatosis NFSXM: Tadzio Bervoets presence (BON)

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29 Reports and Publications Overview

Below you will find an overview of the reports and publications on biodiversity related subjects in the Dutch Caribbean that have recently been published.

“Roberts, M., Hanley, S., Williams, S., Cresswell, “Fishburn, D.J.C. (2017) W. (2017) Assessing the viabiliy of the groasis waterboxx for dry Terrestrial degradation impacts on coral reef health: forest restoration and reforestation projects. “ Evidence from the Caribbean.Ocean & Coastal management, 149: 52-68.” “Horn, A. (WUR student) (2017) Modelling urban floods in semiarid environment: a “Webb, A.E., van Heuven, S.M.A.C., de Bakker, D., case study in Paradera, Aruba.” van Duyl, F., Reichert, G.J., de Nooijer, L.J. (2017) Combined Effects of Experimental Acidification “Houtsma, S. (WUR student). (2017) and Eutrophication on Reef Sponge Bioerosion The current status of mangrove forests in Spanish Rates. Frontiers in Marine Science, DOI: 0.3389/ Lagoon (Aruba) evaluated from a hydrological point fmars.2017.00311.” of view. Assessing the water balance and modelling tree growth rates.” “Rippe, J.P., Matz, M.V., Green, E.A., Medina, M., Khawaja, “Kuppen, E. (Msc. thesis WUR) (2017) N.Z. et al. (2017) A hydrological analysis of the Spanish Lagoon Population structure and connectivity of the moun- Catchment with the AGWA model on Aruba.” tainous star coral, Orbicella faveolata, throughout the wider Caribbean region. Ecology and Evolution, DOI “Vogel, T. (WUR student) (2017) 10.1002/ece3.3448.” Human induced dust in Aruba. An assessment of the transport and spatial deposition dynamics of dust from off-road driving in Aruba and the effect of driv- Student Reports ing speed and traffic density.”

“Arendsen, P. (WUR student) (2017) Mapping erosion on Saba, How to keep the Unspoiled Queen from tumbling down.”

These reports and publications can be found in the Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Database (DCBD) (http://www.dcbd.nl). The DCBD is a central online storage facility for all biodiversity and conservation related information in the Dutch Caribbean.

If you have research and monitoring data, the DCNA secretariat can help you to get it housed in the DCBD. Please e-mail us: [email protected]

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30 List of Acronyms

AUA Aruba NFSXM Nature Foundation St. Maarten

BON Bonaire Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Naturalis Netherlands CUR Curaçao NIOZ Royal Institute for Sea NIOZ SAB Saba Research, the Netherlands NWO Netherlands Organisation for EUX St. Eustatius NWO Scientific Research SXM St. Maarten PL Project leader

AMMF Aruba Marine Mammal Foundation Reptielen Amfibieën Vissen RAVON Analyse Educatie en Marien Onderzoek Nederland ANEMOON Oecologisch Onderzoek University of Groningen, the RuG Netherlands Aruba Sustainable Development ASDF Radboud University Nijmegen, the Foundation RU Netherlands Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in BEST Territories of European overseas SBMU Saba Bank Management Unit BO project Policy Supporting Research project SCF Saba Conservation Foundation

BU Bangor University, United Kingdom Smithsonian’s National Museum of Smithsonian Natural History CARIBSS Caribbean Speleological Society STCB Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire Caribbean Research and Management CARMABI of Biodiversity Foundation STCC Sea Turtle Conservation Curacao The Blanes Centre for Advanced CEAB St. Eustatius National Parks Studies, Spain STENAPA Foundation Council of International Educational CIEE STINAPA National Parks Foundation Bonaire Exchange, Bonaire Delft University of Technology, the TUD CRF Coral Reef Foundation Netherlands DCNA Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance UsA University of St. Andrews, Scotland University of Utrecht, the DCBD Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Database UU Netherlands Directorate of Spatial Planning and University of Amsterdam, the DRO UvA Development, Bonaire Netherlands Department of Agriculture, Livestock, DLVV University of Applied Sciences VHL, Fishery and Farmers market VHL (Santa Rosa) the Netherlands (Santa Rosa), Aruba VU University Amsterdam, the EcoPro Ecological Professionals Foundation VU Netherlands Eastern Caribbean Public Health Wildlife Conservation, Science and ECPHF Wildconscience Foundation Education Environmental Protection in the EPIC WNF World Wide Fund for Nature Caribbean Wageningen Universitwy and WUR FPNA Fundacion Parke Nacional Arikok, Aruba Research Centre, the Netherlands HAS University of Applied Sciences, Wageningen Environmental HAS WUR (Alterra) the Netherlands Research, the Netherlands Department of Agriculture, Animal LVV Husbandry & Fisheries, St. Eustatius

31 Calendar

October

whole month Event Sea and learn, Saba.

2nd Technical Workshop of the Transatlantic MPA Network: Marine mammals’ 2-4 Workshop protection, a way to enhance transatlantic cooperation between MPAs, Iceland.

5-6 Conference Our Ocean' Conference, Malta.

12 Reception Save Our Sharks reception, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

21st Annual European Elasmobranch Association Scientific Conference, 12-14 Conference Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

WECAFC/CITES/OSPESCA/CRFM/CFMC Working Group on Shark Conservation 17-19 Meeting and Management, Barbados.

18-20 Meeting 14th Scientific Committee Meeting of the IAC, Panama.

20 Meeting Fishery Commission BES, Barbados.

12th COP to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild 23-28 Conference Animals (CMS), in Manila, the Philippines.

25 Event Sustainability Day

30-2 Nov Conference 19th RedLac Assembly, Dominican Republic.

November

6-10 Meeting 70th Meeting of GCFI, Merida, Mexico.

16-17 Conference Green Aruba, sustainability in motion, Aruba.

2nd Meeting of the Advisory Committee and 2nd Workshop of the Conservation 20-24 Meeting Working Group of the Sharks MoU, Habitat, Bonaire.

25 Event Fundraising Auction (STCB) El Encanto Boutique Hotel, Bonaire.

26-01 Dec Meeting 69th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee, CICG, Geneva, Switzerland.

December

1 Symposium 2nd AcroporaNet Symposium, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

6-7 Conference 6th Statia Sustainability Conference (SSC6), St. Eustatius.

7-9 Meeting ICRI General meeting, Nairobi.

13 Symposium European Coral Reef Symposium, Oxford, UK.

32 Members of the Dutch Carribean Nature Alliance

Aruba St. Eustasius Fundacion Parke Nacional Arikok STENAPA +297 585 1234 +599 318 28 84 www.arubanationalpark.org www.statiapark.org

Bonaire STINAPA Bonaire St. Maarten +599 717 84 44 Nature Foundation www.stinapa.org +721 544 4267 www.naturefoundationsxm.org

Curaçao CARMABI Curaçao +599 9 462 4242 Stiching uniek Curaçao www.carmabi.org +599 9 462 8989 www.uniekcuracao.org

Saba Saba Conservation Foundation +599 416 32 95 www.sabapark.org

DCNA Contact information Sponsors Address: DCNA’s activities are generously supported by Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance The Dutch Postcode Lottery Kaya Finlandia 10A Kralendijk, Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean Bionews is funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Contact us: +599 717 5010 [email protected] www.DCNAnature.org

Social Media facebook.com/DutchCaribbeanNatureAlliance twitter.com/DCNA

Credits Photography: Courtesy of SHAPE Photography or Brenda S. & R. Kirkby unless otherwise Credited. Concept and Design: Deviate Design. www.Deviate.Design

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References

Status Of St. Eustatius’s Reef Van Beek, I.J.M., Debrot, A.O., & De Graaf, M. (2012). Elasmobranchs in the Dutch Caribbean: current population Van der Loos, L.M. and Prud’homme van Reine, W.F. status, fisheries and conservation. In GCFI proceedings of (2016). Macro algae of St. Eustatius, pp.17-22. In: the 65th GCFI meeting. Hoeksema, B.W. (2016) Marine biodiversity survey of St. Eustatius, 2015. Preliminary results of the St. Eustatius Van Beek, I. J. M., Debrot, A. O., Walker, P. A., & Kingma, I. Marine Biodiversity Expedition, 2015. Naturalis Biodiversity (2014). Shark protection plan for the Dutch Caribbean EEZ. Center, Leiden. The Netherlands ANEMOON Foundation, IMARES Report C209/13, 104 pp. Bennebroek, The Netherlands. Van Kuijk, T. (2013). The effect of marine reserve protec- Van Kuijk, De Graaf, M., Nagelkerke, L., Boman, E. & tion and habitat type on the structure of tropical reef fish Debrot, A.O. (2015). Baseline assessment of the coral reef assemblages around St. Eustatius. MSc Thesis, Wageningen fish assemblages of St. Eustatius, IMARES report C058/15. University, nr. T 1918. 91 pp.

Westermann, J. H. and Kiel, H. (1961). The Geology of White, J., Esteban, N., White, M.P.J. & Polino, M. (2006). Saba and St. Eustatius, with notes on the Geology of St. Fisheries Baseline Assessment of St. Eustatius Marine Park, Kits, Nevis and Montserrat (Lesser Antilles). Uitgaven St Eustatius, Netherlands Antilles. pp. 31. “Natuurwetenschappelijke Studiekring voor Suriname en de Nederlandse Antillen”, Utrecht. BRUV Work In The Dutch Caribbean

Other Publications on the Status and Saba Bank: Sharks, DCNA’s BioNews 1-2017, 15-16. Trends of St. Eustatius’ Coral Reefs Retrieved from: http://www.dcnanature.org/wp-content/ uploads/2017/05/Saba-Bank-sharks.pdf Dilrosun, F. (2004). Inventory of the Fishery sector of St. Eustatius. Environmental department, pp. 14. Impact of Terrestrial Invasive Grazing on Bonaire: Case Study Piontek, S. (2015). Final Report St. Eustatius Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network. Cronk, Q.C.B. (1997). Islands: Stability, diversity, conservation, Biodiversity Conservation, 6, 477-493. Reef Check Sint Eustatius. Retrieved from: http://www. reefcheck.org/country-details/SINT%20EUSTATIUS Island Conservation, IUCN Invasive Species Specialist Group, Birdlife International, University of California Santa Sanguinet, M. (2015). The lionfish culling program in Sint Cruz. (2015). Threatened Island Biodiversity Database, Eustatius island, Dutch Caribbean: effectiveness and http://tib.islandconservation.org/ knowledge contribution. Internship Report, Sint Eustatius National Park (STENAPA), Feb-Aug 2015. Dahlin, K.M., Asner, G.P., Field, C.B. (2014). Linking vegetation patterns to environmental gradients and Scheidat, M.S., Boman, E., Devaasuren, N., Geelhoed, S. human impacts in a Mediterranean-type island ecosystem, & de Graaf, M. (2015). Monitoring cetacean occurrence Landscape Ecology, 29, 1571-1585 in coastal waters of the Caribbean Netherlands (Saba, St. Fabricius, K.E. (2005), Effects of terrestrial runoff on the Eustatius & Bonaire) using port sampling. IMARES Report ecology of corals and coral reefs: review and synthesis, C038/15, pp. 36. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 50, 125–46.

Sybesma, J., van ‘t Hof, T. & Pors, L.P.J.J. (1993). Marine Roberts, M., Hanley, S., Williams, S., Cresswell, W. (2017a). Area Survey: an inventory of the natural and cultural marine Terrestrial degradation impacts on coral reef health: resources of St. Eustatius, Netherlands Antilles. CARMABI, Evidence from the Caribbean.Ocean & Coastal manage- pp. 73. ment, 149: 52-68.

References

> Continued: Impact of Terrestrial Invasive Grazing on Bonaire Launches Feral Pig Control Bonaire: Case Study Programme

Roberts, M., Hanley, N. & Cresswell, W. (2017b). User fees Campbell, T. a. & Long, D.B. (2009). Feral swine damage across ecosystem boundaries: Are SCUBA divers willing and damage management in forested ecosystems. Forest to pay for terrestrial biodiversity conservation?, Journal of Ecology and Management, 257(12), pp.2319–2326. Environmental Management, 200, 53-59. Friebel, B.A. & Jodice, P.G. (2009). Home range and habitat use of feral hogs in hogs in Congaree National Park , South Roberts, M., Cresswell, W. & Hanley , N. Prioritising invasive Carolina. Human-wildlife Interactions, 29, pp.49–63. species control actions: a framework for evaluating effectiveness, costs, willingness to pay and social acceptance, Submitted to: Biological Invasions .

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