In 1997-1998, the marine equivalent of a massive and destructive forest fire overwhelmed numerous coral reefs around the world. Caribbean coral biologists still speak of the coral bleaching event of 1998 in reverential tones. A powerful El Niño season was
In surveying Hogsty Reef, the team aboard the Golden Shadow cannot help but notice at least two dramatic landmarks above the sea surface. Shipwrecks. The word summons images of high seas, blinding wind, adventurers, and a storied Caribbean history. Because
Early this morning, the Golden Shadow left its anchorage off Great Inagua and moved north to Hogsty Reef, one of only a few atolls in the Caribbean. The opportunity to survey such a rare Bahamian coral formation is a true
Elkhorn Coral (Acropora palmata) is an iconic species on Caribbean coral reefs. The yellow-brown, broad branches resemble elk antlers; and so the common name. These wide branches can grow to lengths reaching over 2 meters (~6 feet) and construct vital
Sunshine and calm seas greeted the Golden Shadow as she lay at anchor in Man of War Bay on the west side of Great Inagua. After a quick breakfast, the first researchers set off to start the day’s survey work.
At last we have reached the Inaguas! After a few days underway, the Golden Shadow is laying at anchor off the western shore of Great Inagua. Great Inagua is located between 20.9° to 21.4° North latitude and 73° to 73.9°
Each phase of the Global Reef Expedition is a serious undertaking, involving hundreds of logistical details and many, many hours of work, not to mention communications with scientists, educators and governments spread out around the globe. However, one of the
Science Without Borders ® is a critical component of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation’s Global Reef Expedition. The founder, His Royal Highness Prince Khaled bin Sultan of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was inspired by the well-known organization,
Yesterday you were presented with a number of scenarios for the Golden Shadow to avoid Tropical Storm Emily. Hopefully you spent some time considering the ship’s options for dodging the storm and steering clear of its predicted path. Assuredly, the
Clear skies and sunshine greeted the Golden Shadow this morning as drowsy research team members congregated over breakfast. The conversation soon turned to the storm gathering and organizing in the southeastern Caribbean. Many onboard wondered if the approaching tropical storm
