Conservation Science Programs
Grouper Moon Project
The Grouper Moon Project is a 20+ year conservation research partnership dedicated to studying the endangered Nassau Grouper (Epinephelus striatus) in the Cayman Islands. Each winter, thousands of Nassau Grouper gather to spawn in one of the few known spawning aggregations, presenting a critical opportunity for scientific study. REEF collaborates with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment and international partners to monitor, protect, and better understand these spawning events.
Learn more about the Grouper Moon Project
Grouper Spotter — AI-Powered Grouper Identification
As part of the Grouper Moon Project, REEF has launched Grouper Spotter, an innovative citizen science platform that leverages Artificial Intelligence to help identify individual Nassau Grouper and other grouper species using unique markings. By submitting your underwater photos, you can contribute to building a database that informs managers about population dynamics, individual fish movements, and long-term survival — all critical for effective conservation.
- Divers and snorkelers can submit their photos to aid scientific research.
- AI algorithms analyze the images to identify individual fish.
- Data helps track the health and trends of vulnerable grouper populations.
SMILE — Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimates
Accurate size data is vital for assessing fish populations, managing fisheries, and protecting ecologically and economically important marine species. REEF’s SMILE project harnesses citizen science and AI-driven technology to revolutionize how we collect fish length data underwater.
How it Works:
- Volunteer divers are equipped with specially designed FishSense Lite cameras.
- The cameras feature integrated lasers projecting parallel beams onto the side of a fish.
- Divers aim, snap a burst of photos, and advanced AI software extracts precise length measurements from the images.
This method is fast, non-invasive, and allows divers to enjoy their dive while contributing valuable scientific data.
Why SMILE Matters:
- Size data directly informs fisheries stock assessments.
- Helps monitor species with high ecological and economic value.
- Encourages widespread public participation in marine conservation.
Be Part of Innovative Conservation from Anywhere
You don’t have to be underwater to contribute! REEF’s AI-powered volunteer platforms allow anyone to support critical marine research from the comfort of home.
Sign up to volunteer for Grouper Spotter and SMILE HERE.
Read more about these projects in the Alert Diver Magazine feature.
Invasive Species Program
REEF’s Invasive Species Program tackles the growing threat of non-native marine species, with a primary focus on managing invasive lionfish populations in the western Atlantic. The program combines:
- Community education
- Research initiatives
- Organized removal efforts
Learn more about this impactful work HERE.
Save the Date: REEF’s 17th Annual Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Arts Festival
April 23-26, 2026 | Key Largo, Florida
Join the largest community-based event dedicated to invasive species awareness, removal efforts, and ocean conservation — complete with art, education, and fun for all ages.