Tropical regions are, in general, more diverse than ecosystems at higher temperate latitudes. A commonly held hypothesis is that the diverse predators in tropical regions cause predation to have a relatively stronger role in shaping communities. Data from the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project (VFSP) were used by Michele Repetto and colleagues from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute to test for underlying differences in regional fish diversity that could contribute to variation in predation intensity and impact.
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Biogeographic and Seasonal Differences in Consumer Pressure Underlie Strong Predation in the Tropics
Tropical regions are, in general, more diverse than ecosystems at higher temperate latitudes. A commonly held hypothesis is that the diverse predators in tropical regions cause predation to have a relatively stronger role in shaping communities. Data from the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project (VFSP) were used by Michele Repetto and colleagues from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute to test for underlying differences in regional fish diversity that could contribute to variation in predation intensity and impact.
Divers aboard Discovery Diving's Boat
Welcome to the Citizen Science Corner, our quarterly feature to celebrate those who recently reached a milestone in our Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Here are achievements from July, August and September 2024.
Ultra Golden Hamlet Award
Brazil's Fernando de Noronha archipelago is known as a great destination for ecotourism and diving. The islands are located about 200 miles from the mainland and the entire area makes up a protected marine park. Ocean currents from East Africa flow past the islands, creating excellent dive conditions year round, making this a perfect destination for REEF surveyors who enjoy warm, clear water. Unique underwater structures including rock formations and reefs attract many diverse species of fish and other marine life.
Tobago's unique location in the southern Caribbean results in rich biodiversity. Outflow from the Orinoco River in Venezuela feeds this area with an abundance of nutrients, which in turn attracts lots of fish. Tobago offers some of the healthiest reefs in the Tropical Western Atlantic. Manta Suites offers spectacular ocean views and a relaxing experience, while Tobago Dive Experience brings guests to the pristine, world-class reefs and clear waters.
REEF's online programs are free and open to everyone! Here's what is coming up over the next several weeks:
Fishy Hour: Tropical Western Atlantic Fish Jeopardy
Tuesday, May 18 at 8pm EDT
Hang out with your fellow fish geeks as we play a Jeopardy-style trivia game about Tropical Western Atlantic fishes, hosted by the always entertaining Christy and Brice Semmens.
Register here.
After several years of planning and collaborating with local marine scientists and divers, REEF has expanded the Volunteer Fish Survey Project into another region: the South Atlantic States (SAS). Recreational and scientific divers in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia now have survey materials specific to the local ecosystem, including waterproof color ID cards, waterproof survey paper, teaching curriculum, data entry, and online data summaries.
REEF members are at the heart of our grassroots marine conservation programs. More than 70,000 divers, snorkelers, students, and armchair naturalists stand behind our mission.
This month we highlight Susan Lokey, who has been a REEF member since 1995. She is a level 3 surveyor in the Tropical Western Atlantic region and has completed 175 surveys. Susan lives in Virginia, outside of Washington D.C., and enjoys traveling on dive trips. She attends REEF Field Survey Trips whenever she can!
Home to several of the most species-rich sites in REEF’s Tropical Western Atlantic database, Bonaire is legendary among underwater naturalists and REEF surveyors. This trip includes nine boat dives as well as unlimited shore diving opportunities throughout Bonaire's marine park. A rental vehicle is included with each room so participants may access many different shore-diving sites. Bonaire is an excellent place to expand your knowledge of Caribbean fish species alongside other marine life enthusiasts.