Caribbean Regional Ecosystem

The tropical Caribbean Regional Ecosystem is home to coral reefs and the vibrant communities of fish and protected species that depend on reefs as habitat, such as sea turtles. Recreation, tourism, shipping, and fisheries drive the economy of the Caribbean Regional Ecosystem. Coastal communities face challenges such as coral disease and bleaching, hurricane impacts, and pollution. In this region, we are working to reduce the negative impact of human activities on watersheds and coastal waters and improve scientific understanding of how Caribbean resources and ecosystems are impacted by a changing climate.