Anguilla 
Antigua and Barbuda 
Grenada 
Bahamas 
Barbados 
Belize 
Dominica 
Guyana 
Haiti 
Jamaica 
Montserrat 
St. Kitts and Nevis 
St. Lucia 
St. Vincent and the Grenadines 
Suriname 
Trinidad and Tobago 
Turks and Caicos 
Historical Local and Traditional Knowledge and Key Messages for Present-Day Holistic Fisheries Management – An Example from Haiti
Historical Local and Traditional Knowledge and Key Messages for Present-Day Holistic Fisheries Management – An Example from Haiti
Susan Singh-Renton1, Wilner Romain2, Sherry Constantine3, and Bruce Lauckner4
PO Box 10, Layou, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Tel: +1784 533 7621,
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1
49, Rue Palestine, Delmas 75, Haiti. Tel: +509 3403 8455
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2
Monier, Gros-Islet, Saint Lucia, Tel: +1758 484 2655
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3
44 White Drive, Five Rivers, Aruca, Trinidad and Tobago.
Tel: +1868 642 4129 / +1868 221 6654 Cell/WhatsApp: +1868 707 1660.
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4
ABSTRACT
A sample-based fisher interview survey throughout Haiti during 2002-04 provides comprehensive characterisation of Haiti’s marine capture fisheries sector, information about fisheries performance and fishers’ views/perceptions about management needs. The major resource types targeted by fishers were: reef fish (95%), small coastal pelagics (81%), lobster (43%), large pelagics (28%), and conch (27%). These target species also had good catch value. Over 88% of fishers fished to feed their families and targeted several resource types opportunistically. Catches were destined mainly for local use, although lobster was identified as a priority species for export. Decreases over time were reported for catch amount, catch size caught, and numbers caught for the main resource types. This was mainly due to heavy fishing, as well as adverse weather and environmental conditions. Fishers were knowledgeable and logical-minded, noting the importance of controlling fish sizes harvested, introducing closed seasons, and protecting spawning areas. The harvest and post-harvest practices provide insight about social resilience capacity of community level arrangements, which should continue to play a role in present-day initiatives for post-COVID recovery and the blue economy. Fishers expressed strong confidence in their capacity for conflict resolution and for supporting sustainable development of the industry, via: strengthening of fisher cooperation; cooperation with industry managers with regard to fisher education, innovation ideas; and improved industry controls. This provides a strong incentive for advancing a community/ co-management approach to fisheries management, especially considering Haiti’s extensive coastline and numerous coastal fishing communities. The co-management approach is encouraged also as a medium for preparing the coastal fishing communities to cope with the impacts of climate change.
HOW TO CITE: Singh-Renton, S., W. Romain, S. Constantine And B. Lauckner, 2026. Historical Local and Traditional Knowledge and Key Messages for Present-Day Holistic Fisheries Management – An Example from Haiti. Contribution 6.1, p385-397 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=931
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Outlook and Key Considerations for Sustainable Commercial Aquaculture Development in CARICOM
Outlook and Key Considerations for Sustainable Commercial Aquaculture Development in CARICOM
Samia Sarkis, Yvette DieiOuadi, and Eric Wade
SubRegional Office of Latin America and the Caribbean, Barbados
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ABSTRACT
The most recent study led by FAO and facilitated by the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism CRFM was conducted in 2022, which provided a synopsis of the aquaculture sector in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member countries, the challenges in expanding and diversifying the sector, and actions-oriented recommendations. With an overwhelming response rate, this very informative study reported that the majority of aquaculture production is concentrated in Jamaica, Belize, Haiti and Guyana. The total production for CARICOM countries was 3 402 metric tons in 2020 (FishStatJ, 2022), valued at 13 305 000 USD. Almost ¾ of the aquaculture production in the CARICOM countries focused on freshwater species (70%) in 2020; brackish aquaculture accounts for approximately ¼ of total aquaculture production (26 %) and marine aquaculture operations for less than 5 percent of total production. This sector is therefore at its infancy. Key validated findings of this study were the lack of infrastructure, available technology, level of appropriate skill set, and investment, considered main limitations in obtaining reliable seed supply, affordable feed supply and in developing aquaculture in CARICOM. Additional challenges faced by Small Island Developing States SIDS included limited expertise, high production costs, poor seed supplies, and extreme and destructive weather events. Furthermore, access to financial resources is a challenge for this relatively new industry in the Caribbean. Four key points were identified as the way forward by CARICOM countries: 1. Reducing the reliance of CARICOM countries on imported seed and feed supplies, 2. Diversifying aquaculture production in line with environmental sustainability, 3. The need for a regulatory aquaculture framework, and 4. Increase investments in aquaculture. This complements a regional review of the sector in Latin America and the Caribbean, which study suggested that the industry required better governance, the adoption of adequate technologies and best practices,as well as increased efforts for environmental sustainability, and foresight to deal with climate and market changes. One promising approach to promote sustainable commercial aquaculture in CARICOM developed following this FAO/CRFM study is the recently launched Digital Aquaculture Library in 2023. This comprehensive online platform serves as a registry for regulators, managers, aquaculturists, and funding agencies in the Caribbean region. It facilitates the exchange of valuable information among CARICOM countries and other Caribbean states, enabling stakeholders to share insights, best practices, and lessons learned. The Digital Aquaculture Library also helps CARICOM countries gain knowledge from successful aquaculture practices in other regions and apply it to their own contexts. It also facilitates training programs and the transfer of technical know-how to develop human resources and technical capacity. The library provides access to educational materials, workshops, and expert guidance, empowering aquaculturists to enhance their skills and contribute to sustainable development. Additionally, it connects funding agencies with aquaculture projects, attracting investments and promoting collaboration between the private and public sectors. The platform encourages regional collaboration and resource pooling to build necessary infrastructure, such as shared facilities, research centres, and technology transfer hubs. Overall, the Digital Aquaculture Library represents an essential tool for CARICOM member states to overcome challenges and barriers, promote sustainable aquaculture, and drive growth in the region, ultimately contributing to the development of a resilient and thriving aquaculture industry in the Caribbean.
HOW TO CITE: Sarkis, S., Y. Diei Ouadi, and E. Wade, 2026. Outlook and Key Considerations for Sustainable Commercial Aquaculture Development in CARICOM. Contribution 5.6, p371-384 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=930
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Evaluating the outcomes of selective breeding in optimizing the growth performance of tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) for commercial production in the Bahamas
Evaluating the outcomes of selective breeding in optimizing the growth performance of tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) for commercial production in the Bahamas
Mia C. Avril and John Reid
Cape Eleuthera Island School This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ,
Aquasafra Inc. & Waterfield Technologies, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ABSTRACT
Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) is the second most farmed fish globally and is the most introduced aquaculture species. Different strains of tilapia have been developed through selective breeding programs over the years to optimize its three main performance traits: growth rate, hardiness, and marketability. Of all the strains developed, one of the most popular is the red hybrid tilapia (O. urolepis female was crossed with a red-gold male O. mossambicus), which was developed to improve the aforementioned traits under commercial production conditions. A strain of the O. aureus crossed with O. niloticus tilapia with a white colour was also developed to optimize both growth and marketability. This comparative study assessed the growth potential of two tilapia strains (red hybrid, and O. niloticus X O. aureus White hybrid) in a recirculating aquaponics system in the Bahamas. Tanks were established with fry of each strain, starting off at roughly 5 grams. Fish were fed 5% of their body weight daily using commercial tilapia starter feed (40% protein). The fish weight was monitored, and feed conversion ratios were calculated on a weekly basis for the duration of the study period. The results indicated that for all the parameters measured, the O. aureus X O. niloticus strain showed more favourable growth under prevailing Bahamian climate than the red hybrid tilapia. It can therefore be concluded that farmers in the Bahamas and in similar climatic regions should consider the O. niloticus as a strain of economic significance for cultivation.
HOW TO CITE: Avril, M.C. and J. Reid, 2026. Evaluating the outcomes of selective breeding in optimizing the growth performance of tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) for commercial production in the Bahamas. Contribution 5.5, 359-370 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=929
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Investigating the Effectiveness of Three Different Growing Methods for Seamoss Farming in Saint Lucia
Investigating the Effectiveness of Three Different Growing Methods for Seamoss Farming in Saint Lucia
Makeba B. Felix
Fisheries Biologist Department of Fisheries, Castries, Saint Lucia
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ABSTRACT
Seamoss is a common marine macroalgae found globally, that has been cultivated in Saint Lucia for decades. Recently, seamoss production in Saint Lucia has increased significantly, fueled by increased global demand. This is reflected in the price increase of seamoss after 2019 when more people joined the sector owing to job loss on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased production of seamoss has been beneficial to the economic sector in Saint Lucia and may have contributed to the country’s coastal blue carbon store. Increased loss of planting material occasioned by unfavourable weather and sea conditions influenced an investigation into determining the most effective growing methods for seamoss farming in Saint Lucia. Test plots were set established at various locations using three growing methods, namely: a biodegradable tube net, a plastic tube net, and the traditional plastic monoline. The rate of growth of the seamoss and the substrate material’s durability were monitored and compared across the three growing methods. The traditional monoline method proved to be effective as it allowed for the continued growth of the propagule, by promoting the free movement of nutrients and sediments off the plants. However, the plastic tube net, was the most successful growing method since it retained the most propagules during periods of rough seas and had the highest overall growth rate.
HOW TO CITE: Felix, M.B., 2026. Different Growing Methods for Seamoss Farming in Saint Lucia. Contribution 5.4, p347-358 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=928
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Restorative Aquaculture: How Commercially Important Sea Urchins Can Aid in Coral Reef Recovery
Restorative Aquaculture: How Commercially Important Sea Urchins Can Aid in Coral Reef Recovery
Stacey Williams
Institute for Socio-Ecological Research, Puerto Rico
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ABSTRACT
Sea urchins are commercially important as their gonads, also known as roe or uni, are considered a delicacy in many countries. However, sea urchins also play an important ecological role as they are the main herbivores in marine habitats. Herbivores are essential on coral reefs as they control the abundance of benthic algae, which would otherwise outcompete corals and other benthic organisms for space. Currently, many Caribbean coral reefs lack herbivores and are dominated by macroalgae and a dangerous encrusting alga, Ramicrusta spp. The Institute for Socio-Ecological Research (ISER) has developed a novel approach in improving coral reefs by enhancing sea urchin populations in Puerto Rico through restorative aquaculture techniques. ISER is executing two different techniques to produce urchins for restoration purposes. Post larval settlers of the long spined sea urchin, Diadema antillarum, are collected from the field, brought back to the laboratory, and grown to a young adult size. Recently, we developed a small scale hatchery and have been closing the life cycle of the West Indian sea urchin, Tripneustes ventricosus, in the laboratory. More than 5,500 lab-reared D. antillarum and more than 300 T. ventricosus, have been restocked to coral reefs all around Puerto Rico. Significant changes in the benthic structure were observed during the first week after the restocking. Significant reductions of fleshy macroalgae (Dictyota spp.) and thick turf algal/sediment mats (TAS), both unsuitable substrates (e.g., coral settlement), contributed to this change. Additionally, preliminary observations show that coral outplants have a higher chance of surviving when herbivores are present because they do not need to compete for space against cyanobacteria and macroalgae. Our work shows that producing sea urchins through aquaculture techniques provides direct ecological benefits to coral reefs and should be integrated in all coral restoration plans.
HOW TO CITE: Williams S.M, 2026. Restorative Aquaculture: How Commercially Important Sea Urchins Can Aid in Coral Reef Recovery. Contribution 5.3, p346 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=927
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Looking Back Before Moving Forward: Learning From History to Develop Aquaculture and Mariculture in Barbados
Looking Back Before Moving Forward: Learning From History to Develop Aquaculture and Mariculture in Barbados
Christopher Parker and Colvin Taylor
Barbados Fisheries Division. Ministry of the Environment and National Beautification, Princess Alice Highway, Bridgetown, Barbados
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ABSTRACT
To meet local demands, Barbados currently imports much more fish and fish products than it produces. In recent years this disparity has worsened by the significant reduction in catches of flyingfish and dolphinfish resulting from the mass influxes of Sargassum spp. into traditional fishing grounds. Against this background, the Barbados Fisheries Policy (BFP) 2023-2033 requires Government to support the contribution of sustainable aquaculture to economic growth, food security and income diversification. At this juncture, it is prudent to critically review and assess the island’s past aquaculture and mariculture ventures with the objective of discerning any lessons learnt and applying these to the formulation of sound policies and plans for the development and management of vi–able and sustainable aquaculture and mariculture in Barbados. This is the main objective of this paper. Scarcity of available land and water resources significantly limits opportunities for large-scale, land-based aquaculture ventures in Barbados. As such, the island’s few commercial-scale ventures have necessarily utilized Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). However, most of these businesses have not been sustainably profitable for various reasons, with most not progressing beyond the pilot-phase. Small-scale “backyard” ventures often rearing primarily Tilapia in small tanks as well as in aquaponics arrays, have emerged as the predominant forms of aquaculture on the island. Options for mariculture are also constrained by the island’s densely populated land area and limited and crowded coastline. It is emphasized that it is the duty of government through cogent legislation to ensure that all aquaculture and mariculture ventures are financially sustainable and redound to the benefit of Barbados without damaging the environment. To this end, a new policy framework for aquaculture and mariculture and regulations were approved by Cabinet on 9th June 2023. Regular consultation with stakeholder experts is necessary for implementation and to chart the way forward for the sector.
HOW TO CITE: Parker, C. and C. Taylor, 2026. Looking Back Before Moving Forward: Learning From History to Develop Aquaculture and Mariculture in Barbados. Contribution 5.2, p331-345 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariathttps://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=926
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A Bioeconomic Approach for Sea Cucumber Mariculture in the Caribbean
A Bioeconomic Approach for Sea Cucumber Mariculture in the Caribbean
Ricardo Anthony Morris
Caribbean Aquaculture Education and Innovation Hub
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ABSTRACT
The downturn of the lucrative multi-species sea cucumber trade in the Asian market has in the last decade led to an increase in fishing pressure in other regions where the fishery previously did not exist. This has led to an increased threat of unsustainable fishing, overexploitation of stocks, loss of biodiversity, negative ecological impacts, and the destabilization of sensitive ecosystems and coastal communities targeting these species. All these impacts have been realized in the Latin America and Caribbean region including Jamaica, whose management has been slow or unresponsive in adapting to the sudden demand for the species. On the other hand, this demand and high prices for the species present several opportunities including for aquaculture and mariculture which can provide economic benefits, supplement already overexploited fisheries, and contribute to the restoration and resilience of coastal ecosystems to climate change impacts. A bioeconomic approach to investigation and then implementation of sea cucumber mariculture can provide an inefficient means of optimizing ocean space, inputs (costs), economic benefit, and ecological contribution. This is given that space and cost are major limitations to aquaculture and mariculture development in small island states like those in the Caribbean. The approach involves an initial experimental mariculture phase where wild seeds (juveniles) are collected and kept in identical enclosures on the seabed in different densities and habitat conditions. Over time, biological indicators such as ambient conditions, mortality, and growth, are monitored along with applicable costs which could include feed, security, lease arrangements, etc. Following this monitoring period, a bioeconomic assessment is conducted to determine the optimum harvest time and harvest size for the targeted market along with the different density habitat conditions. The results are expected to provide critical management and policy development information, with the potential for being scaled up, about the viability of sea cucumber mariculture as a business in conditions specific to the Caribbean.
HOW TO CITE: Morris, R.A., 2026.A Bioeconomic Approach for Sea Cucumber Mariculture in the Caribbean. Contribution 5.1, p330 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=925
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Reflections on a Collaborative Program to Build Capacity in the Caribbean Fisheries Resource Management Sector
Reflections on a Collaborative Program to Build Capacity in the Caribbean Fisheries Resource Management Sector
Nancy Montes* and Charles Sidman
Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida Gainesville, Florida, USA.
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ABSTRACT
Capacity development, a process by which an organization or institution strives to improve the skills of its professional staff, is often cited as a priority for strengthening fisheries and ocean management in developing regions, including the Caribbean. Needs span the disciplines of social, physical, and environmental sciences and include topics related to aquaculture development; marine spatial planning; data collection and analysis; geo-spatial technologies; and fisheries stock assessment (Montes and Sidman, 2019). These skills may be imparted to staff on-the-job and/or through participation in professional trainings, typically provided through partnerships among governments, regional institutions, and international organizations. Trainings are often of short-duration and provide participants with basic knowledge and exposure to needs-related concepts. Extended learning opportunities that provide cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and incorporate user-defined projects can equip participants with greater expertise and added confidence to apply the knowledge gained, given sufficient support from their organizations or institutions. During the past decade, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) has prioritized capacity building, in part, through its support of a training program for fisheries management professionals at the University of Florida, undertaken through a cooperative agreement with Florida Sea Grant (FSG). This program has also benefited from the sponsorship of professional organizations, such as the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI). The evolution of this capacity-building program from on-site to virtual learning platforms – made necessary in response to COVID-19 – is evaluated through a survey of former program participants. The paper explores the reach of the training program throughout the Gulf and Caribbean regions; the motivations that drive program participation; the ways in which learned skills are being applied; the personal and professional benefits that have accrued to former participants; and future training opportunities.
HOW TO CITE: Montes, N. and C. Sidman, 2026. Reflections on a Collaborative Program to Build Capacity in the Caribbean Fisheries Resource Management Sector. Contribution 4.4, p320-329 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=924
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Women Empowerment in the Belize Fishing Industry
Women Empowerment in the Belize Fishing Industry
Sandra C. Grant*1, Ralna Lewis Lamb2, Peter A. Murray1, Nidia Chacon3, Isabel Martinez4, Deseree Arzu2
Contact information of author(s)
CRFM Secretariat, Belize (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )1,
Wildlife Conservation Society, Belize (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )2,
The Nature Conservancy, Belize (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )3,
Belize Fisheries Department (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )4
ABSTRACT
Women’s empowerment is the process by which females who have been denied the ability to make strategic life choices acquire such an ability. There are gender inequalities in the distribution of power in the Belize fisheries sector. Perceptions on gender equality amongst women in the fisheries sector is that they are not treated fairly, and they do not have equal opportunity within a male dominated sector. Within Belize’s fisheries sector, women are not generally engaged, consulted, or valued; consequently, they cannot fully attain their potential contribution to fisheries management and development. Yet, they make significant contribution to the fisheries sector. Women are involved in pre-harvest activities (preparing meals, vessels, fishing equipment, and bait for fishing trip; planning fishing trips, organizing crew); fishing operations; post-harvesting activities (processing, marketing, sale); and the preparation of fish meals (nutrition). Intensified and focused efforts are needed to engage Belizean women and strengthen their capacity for action across segments of the fisheries sector. This paper draws on the case study of Belize’s interventions to address the issues women face in the fisheries sector to illustrate key lessons of the transformative potential of women empowerment. The interactions of resources (access to material, human, and social resources), agency (processes of decision-making and negotiation), and achievements (well-being and outcome) combine to influence women’s empowerment. Women became empowered by their acquisition of new skills, greater knowledge of the marine ecosystem in which they work, and external interventions. Thus, they were able to influence decisions about their future and with confidence they are more willing to participate in decision-making.
HOW TO CITE: Grant, S.C., R. Lewis Lamb, P. A. Murray, N. Chacon, I. Martinez and D. Arzu. 2026. Women Empowerment in the Belize Fishing Industry. Contribution 4.3 IN CRFM, 2026. Papers presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 35, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=923
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Investigating the Economic Implications of Weather-Related Damages and Theft on Fishing Vessels: a Survey-Based Analysis in the Coastal Communities of Trinidad
Investigating the Economic Implications of Weather-Related Damages and Theft on Fishing Vessels: a Survey-Based Analysis in the Coastal Communities of Trinidad
Dennis Sammy, Vivan Alexander, Imran Khan and Evana Douglas
Future Fishers, Sangre Grande, Trinidad and Tobago
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ABSTRACT
The fishing industry on the northeast coast of Trinidad holds great importance as a major economic driver in the region, providing employment, income opportunities and supporting local businesses. Fishing provides a sustainable protein source for the community and is an integral part of cultural traditions and community life in these seven villages. However, the lack of safe ports for securing the valuable fishing assets has resulted in damage and destruction of vessels owing to harsh weather conditions and theft. Accordingly, Future Fishers investigated the economic impact of these events on the lives of fishers. The study aims to provide valuable insights into the potential consequences of the lack of safe ports for fishing vessels. Primary data were collected using a two-step process. First, fisherfolks registered in the Future Fishers database were contacted to identify those who were affected. Second, phone or in-person interviews were used to elicit information from those who were impacted. The information collected was the date and location of the events, the type and extent of damages, what caused the damage and the estimated cost and time to repair. The preliminary findings suggest that adverse weather conditions and theft have a significant impact on fishers and their fishing communities. The study has practical implications for multiple stakeholders, including local villages, government agencies, and fishers. They will gain insights into the economic impact of extreme weather events and the urgent need for safe ports and facilities that sustain the local fishing industry.
HOW TO CITE: Sammy, D., V. Alexander, I. Khan and E. Douglas, 2026. Investigating the Economic Implications of Weather-Related Damages and Theft on Fishing Vessels: a Survey-Based Analysis in the Coastal Communities of Trinidad. Contribution 4.2, p288-298 IN CRFM, 2026. Volume I: Technical Papers. Presented at the CRFM 20th Anniversary Scientific Conference, 28-31 August 2023. CRFM Special Publication No. 37, CRFM Secretariat https://www.crfm.int/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=922
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