Marine Ecosystems of Belize

The small country of Belize maintains some of the most pristine coastal marine ecosystems on the planet. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, at 625 miles in length, is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and home to a tremendous variety of reef fish, corals, and other invertebrates. Several species of sea turtles and rays reside in the lagoon systems of Belize while coastal mangroves provide habitat for juvenile reef fish and a variety of marine invertebrates. The coastal waters of Belize have been fished since the time of the Mayans (300 B.C. to 900 A.D.) and although the fisheries remain economically important, tourism has become the main use of the reef and an important source of revenue.  

This course introduces participants to the biology, ecology, and history of reef, lagoon, and mangrove systems of Belize; the various threats to the health of these ecosystems; and the ongoing efforts of non-profit and government agencies to protect and manage sustainable uses of the reef. Participants spend several hours snorkeling each day, exploring these unique coastal systems. Each evening concludes with discussions on select topics.  

The course takes place at the Belize Marine Tropical Research and Education Center (belizemarinetrec.com) . The facility has a research library, classrooms, Wi-Fi, laboratory, freshwater swimming pool, a fleet of boats and is staffed by Ph.D. marine biologists, a Registered Nurse, licensed captains, and licensed tour guides. The class also visits the mainland sites of Clarissa Falls, the Mayan temple of Xunantunich, St. Herman's Cave, the inland Blue Hole, and the Belize Zoo. The mainland component of the course explores the history of the Maya and the long-lasting influence of the Maya on Belize culture today.