The annual Nassau grouper spawning happened with the full moon last week and members of the public were able to watch this incredible phenomenon as it happened, as it was live-streamed while marine scientists conducted live educational sessions. The video was broadcast in real time from the spawning aggregation site (SPAG) off the western tip of Little Cayman, one of the largest and last known sites in the world.
Scientists have been studying this grouper hole for over 30 years in collaboration between the Cayman Islands Department of Environment, the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) and other members of the regional marine science community.
The conservation project and strict fishing ban at the site has played a key role in the successful recovery of Nassau grouper populations in the Cayman Islands. Generous logistical support has been provided throughout the years by the Southern Cross Club, as well as by local dive operators at the Little Cayman Beach Resort/Reef Divers. Brac Reef Resort has provided lodging support for education efforts on Cayman Brac. Cayman Airways has provided inter-island travel support. Grants from the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, beginning in 2011, have supported field efforts, the Baby Grouper Adrift webpage, several outreach products, and the development and continued coordination of the Grouper Education Program.
Anyone who missed the Grouper Moon live streams from Little Cayman last week are able to see them on the Cayman Islands DOE YouTube channel.
February 8, 2023
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdyE69rViIw&t=1980s
February 7, 2023
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yIZuV9sHmc&t=25s
February 6, 2023
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYwO5jPNLj0&t=40s
Learn about this fascinating phenomenon and how our long term conservation efforts are making a difference.
REEF Environmental Education Foundation
#GrouperMoon #CaymanConservation #MarineProtection #ProtectWhatYouLove
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