USAID Flagship Caribbean Marine Biodiversity Activity

Specific biodiversity focal interests identified for the scope of the Activity include key ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass beds, coral reefs. In addition, key species such as invertebrates, reef fish, sharks and rays, marine turtles, and marine mammals with special emphasis on manatees within the Caribbean region are also biodiversity focal interest for this design. Mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other coastal natural systems serve as nature-based solutions to climate change. Healthy coastal ecosystems can capture sediment, slow destructive wave energy, and attenuate coastal erosion and storm surge, thus acting as barriers against extreme events. Mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds also sequester carbon, thus contributing to climate change mitigation. Coastal ecosystems also serve as valuable ‘nurseries’ for many marine and coastal species, thus helping to maintain healthy stocks that are an important source of food.

Changes in marine ecosystems and subsequent habitat loss in the Caribbean are causing widespread loss in species diversity. For example, the loss of coral cover and the degradation of remaining reefs negatively impact populations of sea urchins and parrot fish. Seagrass beds, which are key habitats for many species of fish and invertebrates, are experiencing severe degradation and species loss. The loss of mangrove cover reduces the availability of food, breeding grounds, and nursery sites for a variety of marine organisms, including many species of reef fish and invertebrates. All of the above impacts the well-being and livelihoods of communities which are closely tied to the use and conservation of biodiversity (e.g. fishers, tourist guides, and farmers).