Author: Christy Pattengill-Semmens, Ph.D., Co-Executive Director: Science & Engagement
Last month, longtime REEF scientific advisor and Professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Dr. Brice Semmens, participated in an important fisheries science meeting in Florida to help shape how Hogfish populations are assessed and managed in the Southeast U.S. This meeting was part of the SEDAR (Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review) process, a formal scientific review used by government agencies to assess the health of fish populations and determine sustainable catch limits. These assessments have real world impacts by influencing fishing regulations, quotas, and conservation strategies that directly affect the future of species like Hogfish.
Hogfish are known for being difficult to monitor with traditional fishery-dependent methods, and REEF data can provide valuable information to help inform decision making. While at the meeting, Semmens worked with regional assessment scientists to translate citizen science data from the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project (VFSP) into indices of Hogfish abundance. The VFSP has collected one of the longest and most comprehensive fisheries-independent time series available for fishes in Florida and throughout the Atlantic Ocean, providing a unique and essential dataset for understanding species population trends.
This is a major step forward in recognizing the power of community-based science and the unique value of divers' firsthand observations, and we’re proud to represent the voices of ocean stewards in this critical decision making process. Semmens’ participation in the workshop is part of REEF's broad efforts to link citizen science data with formal fisheries stock assessments, an important part of sustainable fisheries management. The SMILE (Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimates) project, developed with support from the Southeast Fisheries Management Council, aims to collect fish length information for species of management importance. Together, REEF’s fish abundance and size data will support the inclusion of citizen science data into fisheries management models.
Author: Amy Lee, Communications Manager
At the REEF Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo, science and art come together to spark curiosity and connection through The Ocean Inspires, a rotating art exhibit that showcases the work of artists, poets, and creatives who draw upon the ocean as a source of inspiration. Featuring interactive talkback boards, comfortable, inviting seating, and marine-focused art displays, The Ocean Inspires serves as a space for dialogue, reflection, and action.
The current featured artist, Beatriz Chachamovits, offers a thought-provoking exhibit titled "To Have and To Hold". Through intricate ceramic sculptures and delicate drawings, Chachamovits reimagines the historical cabinet of curiosities to reflect on humanity’s complex relationship with the natural world. Her work explores themes of marine ecology, mythology, and material transformation, asking viewers to consider the ways we collect, preserve, and assign value to nature. "To Have and To Hold" invites contemplation on the fragility of marine ecosystems and the choices we make in our interactions with them.
Based in Miami, Chachamovits has exhibited at leading institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami and Frost Science Museum. Her artistic practice is rooted in a deep reverence for the ocean, and she has reached over 1,000 students through “Modeling the Reef,” a hands-on workshop promoting ocean literacy.
"To Have and To Hold" is on display at the Ocean Exploration Center now. If you happen to explore the Native Plants & Heritage Trail at the REEF Campus, you might spot a few of Beatriz's other works from her collection, "Heliotropic Seekers" hanging in the trees. All are invited to visit the Ocean Exploration Center, check out the art displays and be part of this creative conversation about our shared responsibility to protect the ocean. For more info, visit www.REEF.org/oec.
Author: Amy Lee, Communications Manager
Get ready for a night to remember at REEF Fest 2025! One of the most anticipated events of the weekend, For the Love of the Sea, will take place on Saturday, October 18 from 5:00 to 8:30 pm at a stunning outdoor waterfront venue on Blackwater Sound in Key Largo. This sunset celebration is a gathering of ocean enthusiasts, conservationists, and community members who share a passion for protecting our marine environment.
Tickets include dinner catered by local favorite Key Largo Conch House, featuring a variety of savory passed appetizers and dinner stations, including grilled mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa, tropical vegan curry, and classic roast pork. Attendees can also enjoy an open bar with local craft beer from Florida Keys Brewing Company, signature cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
The evening also features a silent auction filled with unique items and experiences, with all proceeds benefiting REEF’s ongoing conservation programs. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow REEF supporters, meet REEF staff and board members, and celebrate the impact we’re making together.
Tickets are available when you register online for REEF Fest. Discounted early pricing is just $95 per person until August 15, then tickets increase to $125 per person. Space is limited, so secure your spot today and be part of this annual celebration. To register and purchase your tickets, visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest.
Author: Jen Loch, Research Associate
REEF needs your input by August 9! We invite all members - whether you’ve used SMILE cameras or not - to take a brief (10–15 minute), voluntary online survey. Your responses will directly help shape and strengthen the collaborative SMILE (Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimates) project, which uses handheld cameras to estimate fish lengths in the wild.
Whether you're a seasoned surveyor, a casual fish watcher, or simply passionate about ocean conservation, your feedback is vital. The Citizen Science & Conservation Technology Survey explores your interests, motivations, and potential barriers to participating in citizen science using emerging technologies. No prior experience is necessary to share your feedback.
By participating, you’ll:
• Learn more about the innovative SMILE project and its goals
• Help REEF understand how to better support citizen scientists
• Contribute to shaping future conservation technology initiatives
To show our appreciation, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a raffle to win a REEF shirt of your choice! Your insights matter - let's build the future of marine citizen science together. Follow this link to take the survey today: https://colostate.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8ex46Y1PbsdBJum Visit www.REEF.org/smile to learn more about the SMILE project.
Author: Stacey Henderson, Field Survey Trips Program Manager
The 2025 REEF Discover the Sea Underwater Photography Contest is coming soon! Starting September 1, all photographers, regardless of skill level or experience, are invited to submit their best ocean-themed photos for this year's contest. Be on the lookout for our new comedy category which is sure to give you a laugh!
Photo submission categories include:
• Fish Portrait: Portrait shots of fish only; may include the fish's whole body or be framed around the head only
• Macro: Close-up shots that make the subject appear "larger than life"
• Invertebrates: Photos featuring ocean life with no spine
• Comedy: photos may include your best comedic photos, from weird faces, the worst photo bombs, to hilarious mishaps.
• Habitat/Seascape/Environment: Photos of an ocean environment or seascape. They do not have to be underwater but must be marine-focused, such as over/under shots, mangroves, or topside water shots.
Be sure to save the date and keep an eye on your inbox and our social media channels for more info, and check out www.REEF.org/photocontest to see last year's winning photos.
Photo Credit: "Grabby” photographed by Aiden Conners in Vancouver Island, Canada.
Author: Stacey Henderson, Field Survey Trips Program Manager
Join us March 14-21, 2026, on our first-ever REEF Trip to Jamaica! Negril, Jamaica is home to a famous 7-mile beach with white sand and turquoise water. Our trip takes place at the family-owned Travellers Beach Resort, which is known for warm Jamaican hospitality and a stunning beachfront setting. We'll also be conducting fish surveys during the trip, making this an exciting opportunity to contribute valuable data from a new area.
REEF Field Survey Trips are eco-vacations led by marine life experts. Each trip features daily dives and fish ID classes for both beginners and experienced surveyors. To book your space on a REEF Trip, email trips@REEF.org. We hope to "sea" you underwater soon!
Limited space is available on 2025 trips, including a male shared space on Anilao. See links for these trips and more below:
Anilao, Philippines: October 25 - November 4, 2025 -- More information here.
Curacao: November 1-8, 2025 -- More information here.
Cozumel: December 6-13, 2025 -- More information here.
Jamaica: March 14-21, 2026 -- More information here.
Cayman Brac: April 4-11, 2026 -- More information here.
Fiji: April 18-28, 2026 -- More information here.
Author: The REEF Team
Introducing our August Fish of the Month, the Blackeye Goby Rhinogobiops nicholsii!
Survey Regions: The Blackeye Goby is found through the Pacific coasts of the US and Canada (PAC region) including southern California to British Columbia, and is present but uncommon near Alaska. They can also be found in northern and central Baja, part of the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) region. Follow these links to see distribution reports for this species in the REEF database: PAC and TEP.
Size: They are typically between 1-4 inches and can grow to a maximum size of 6 inches.
Identifying Features: Blackeye Gobies are dark to pale tan and can have some pale blue spots or blotches. They usually have dark eyes and a small, blue, opalescent spot below the eye. They also have a black edge on their first dorsal fin.
Fun Facts: Blackeye Gobies are found on sandy areas near rocky outcroppings or structures like docks. They like to make dens in sand or silt, or they may occupy crevices or submerged objects like bottles, jars, or tires.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Janna Nichols.
