Isla Mar Research Expeditions Field Course Basics | Page 4

TROPICAL MARINE ECOLOGY
CONNECTIVITY OF CORAL REEFS, SEAGRASS AND MANGROVES
Hands-on exploration of three
marine ecosystems
Students will learn the concepts of
connectivity between mangrove, seagrass and
coral reef ecosystems. 
Immersing students in the field to showcase
the importance of seagrass and mangroves as
nursery habitats, the ontogenetic shifts onto
the coral reef, threats to these systems and
the basic biology and ecology of each system.
We visit the southwestern town of Buye where
we can snorkel the seagrass beds in tranquil
clear water from shore. We also journey to La
Parguera where seagrass and mangroves are
accessible by small boat and kayak. The
fishermen's mangrove channels are a fun way
to illustrate the protection mangroves provide
to coastal communities. 
Coral reefs will be explored in Rincon at the
Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, Desecheo Island
(MPA) and also in La Parguera for comparison.