From Pam: Study abroad in Bonaire

Post date: Mar 19, 2014 11:21:13 AM

Undergraduate Pam Denish shares her study abroad semester in marine biology:

Last fall, I studied abroad in Bonaire, a small island in the southern Caribbean. The program focused on coral reef ecology and tropical marine conservation. Courses explored the life histories of fish, their behaviors, and factors that affect population dynamics. We also learned about natural and anthropogenic factors that harm the reef, and measures being taken to try to protect them, such as marine protected areas and restrictions on fishing industries. I chose the program because it offered first-hand experience doing research in marine biology and conservation, two of my lifelong passions.

       Most of our work was hands on. We dove almost daily, collecting data on reef rugosity, species diversity, and chemical composition of the water. We also took trips to snorkel in salt marshes and sea grass beds, which serve as nurseries for a large proportion of reef fish. One of the most enriching parts of my experience abroad was the opportunity to conduct an independent research project. My project examined the symbiotic relationship in which juvenile fish and small gobies clean parasites from the skin, gills, and mouth of larger, sometimes predatory fish. I used underwater video to observe the “cleaner fish,” and quantified dishonest behaviors that occurred. For those cleaner fish detected “cheating,” or removing skin in addition to parasites, I looked at the proximity of other cleaners as well as the abundance of large fish coming to be cleaned to examine whether these population dynamics influenced the likelihood that a cleaner would cheat. I ran statistical analysis on these findings, wrote a scientific paper that was published in the program’s semi-annual journal, and presented my work at a public lecture.

            In addition to the scientific portion of our curriculum, we also took a class on the history and culture of the island. Bonaire throughout its history has been ignored by most of the world except for its sole abundant natural resource, salt. It was fascinating to learn the history of the inhabitants of the island, who were originally slaves. The people of Bonaire are proud of their heritage, and the culture was very rich and unique.

            Studying abroad was a wonderful experience. I met fellow undergraduate scientists from all over the country, and learned a great deal about the dynamics of coral reefs, as well as the challenges and measures being taken to try to protect them.