Making Waves

Scientists are learning more about the world's oceans by mapping Bermuda's coral reef systems

By Annie Glasspool

Bermuda has a relatively healthy marine environment. That's good for Bermuda and the rest of the world.

Coral reefs and sea grass meadows are major features of tropical and subtropical shallow waters, such as those that surround Bermuda. Likened to tropical rainforests because of the rich diversity of life they support, coral reef systems are an important source of natural resources. In addition, they contribute to world economies by attracting divers, snorkellers and tourists who appreciate the environment. Furthermore, coral reef systems play a pivotal role in ecological systems.

Representing the northernmost coral reef system in the world, Bermuda's subtropical marine environment is closely linked with the coral reefs of the Caribbean and southeastern United States. The Gulf Stream, which acts as a conveyor belt as it flows up from the Caribbean past Bermuda, transports fish, corals and most other types of marine life. Because Bermuda's more northerly waters are slightly cooler than those of the West Indies, not all Caribbean species can survive here. Bermuda is home to about 55 percent of the fish species you'll find in the other islands.

But Bermuda's slightly cooler waters have protected its reefs from some of the problems that have plagued Caribbean reefs in recent years. Coral blanching and several diseases that have spread throughout the Caribbean have not had a dramatic impact on Bermuda's marine environment. Thus, Bermuda's reef system can serve as an important barometer of global reef health at a time when scientists have increasing concerns about the future of coral reef systems worldwide. Indeed, scientists believe that about 27 percent of the world's reefs have already been destroyed and another 16 percent are seriously threatened.

Scientific research on Bermuda's marine life extends as far back as 1837. But until recently, an accurate map of the reef complex and the distribution of animals and plants across it did not exist. The production of such a map is an essential step in developing a baseline of the current status of Bermuda's reef system with which future trends may be compared.

The Bermuda Reef Ecosystem Assessment and Mapping project (or BREAM, also the name of one of Bermuda's most common reef fish) was launched in 2004 as part of the ongoing Bermuda Biodiversity Project at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo in Flatts.

Local and international scientists are working together to promote a better understanding of Bermuda's unique marine environment by surveying the reefs and sea grass beds to analyse distribution patterns. They are also measuring a variety of biological characteristics that indicate the health of these habitats. Each indicator is being mapped onto its own layer on a computerised map. By overlapping different layers, the team can identify healthy areas as well as those that have been damaged or bleached.

By doing this, scientists are developing a framework to allow for a more integrated approach to research and management of Bermuda's unique marine environment.

400 Anniversary Offer! Book now and celebrate with hotel credits of up to $400 for travel through March 31, 2009. Plus get a 400 Anniversary Passport for additional savings of up to $1000 on island.

Make your Bermuda trip even more memorable with dolphins! Dolphin Quest offers fun, interactive dolphin encounter programs for all. Book your adventure today!

Have a fun-filled vacation with a cycle from Oleander. If you can ride a bicycle, you can easily ride an Oleander scooter. See all of Bermuda...reserve one today!