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 
Sargassum In The Caribbean: Challenges And Opportunity For Blue Growth Based On The Circular Economy Approach
Sargassum In The Caribbean: Challenges And Opportunity For Blue Growth Based On The Circular Economy Approach
Mario Ayalon3*, Milton Haughton2, Rosie Paterson-Lima1, Bruce Searle1,
Terrell Thompson3, Maren Headley2, Christian Genova, Abby Albright, Jaqui Day1
Plant and Food Research1, Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism2,
and Research-Engineer contractor3
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ABSTRACT
Since 2011, the mass of Sargassum in the Caribbean has increased dramatically and resulting in more than three times the normal amount of this seaweed in the region. In 2022, the mass of Sargassum in the region had a record of around twenty-two million tons in July and a similar figure is expected in 2023. Sargassum has a role in the marine ecosystem by providing fish nurseries, shelter for sea turtles and absorption of carbon dioxide. However, large volumes of this seaweed have a negative impact on the tourism sector, fishing industries, coral reefs and other coastal ecosystems, and the health of coastal residents. In 2020 the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade funded a three-year collaborative project, which is being implemented by Plant & Food Research (PFR) of New Zealand and the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), to address Sargassum seaweed influxes in affected Caribbean countries. The project has four activity areas: raw material safety testing and harvesting operations review, product and process development, product commercialization strategy development and outreach and supply chain development. The raw material safety testing was done using Sargassum collected in Belize, Barbados, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic. The results confirmed the findings of previous studies that Sargassum has elevated levels of Arsenic, Cadmium and Lead, with concentrations above the maximum allowable limits for human food and animal feed. For the second activity, the project team reviewed twenty-three potential products derived from Sargassum to identify the most suitable for product development and commercialization within the context of the Caribbean environment. Based on the results of the raw material safety testing; the technologies required for harvesting, product development and production; market competition; and regulatory standards in respect of the end-products, the project team selected three products: liquid fertilizer, compost and building materials. The selection of the three products was guided by the circular economy principle of minimum waste generation, mitigation of heavy metal content in accordance with international regulations, and contribution to blue growth in the Caribbean region. Laboratory trials to produce liquid fertilizer and compost started in May 2023. The results obtained will define the operational conditions for production at pilot plant scale of the prototype products and value chains in 2024.
HOW TO CITE: Ayalon M., M. Haughton, R. Paterson-Lima, B. Searle, T. Thompson, M. Headley, C. Genova, A. Albright, and J. Day, 2026. Sargassum in the Caribbean: Challenges and Opportunity for Blue Growth Based on the Circular Economy Approach. Contribution 7.3, p517-526 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=944
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Gender Perspectives in Social, Blue and Climate Justice
Gender Perspectives in Social, Blue and Climate Justice
Maria Pena and Patrick McConney
Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES)
University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, Barbados
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ABSTRACT
Climate justice, blue justice and social justice are closely intertwined in small island developing states (SIDS) societies, villages and households engaged in small-scale fisheries (SSF). The English-speaking Caribbean exemplifies this at a time when fisherfolk, perceiving themselves as marginalised, are concerned about their invisibility in blue economy and climate change initiatives. Fisherfolk fear that large development investments lead to further marginalisation of SSF, including the roles that women play. Women predominate in postharvest seafood processing, distribution, and marketing in SSF. These value-added economic activities are often overlooked in official statistics and women may benefit from little to no social protection as self-employed entrepreneurs and fish workers. Women face challenges due to the nature of postharvest work combined with their domestic household responsibilities. Yet, they seldom speak of issues related to their domestic responsibilities when they discuss their fishery work. This is problematic. This paper examines these and other gender perspectives in social, blue and climate justice. Gender perspectives need to be better incorporated into SSF in CRFM Member States. Negative impacts on women’s health and well-being can extend to their family and community, impairing a country’s ability to cope with shocks, whether from climate or the global economy. There are potential impacts on food security and nutrition.
HOW TO CITE: Pena, M. and P. McConney, 2026. Gender Perspectives in Social, Blue and Climate Justice. Contribution 7.2, p502-516 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=943
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The Role of Climate Risk Insurance in Building Resilience of the Fisheries Sector– the Coast (Caribbean Oceans and Aquaculture Sustainability Facility) Example and Application
The Role of Climate Risk Insurance in Building Resilience of the Fisheries Sector– the Coast (Caribbean Oceans and Aquaculture Sustainability Facility) Example and Application
Isaac Anthony, Elizabeth Emanuel, and Gina Sanguinetti Phillips
CCRIF SPC E-mail: 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. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ABSTRACT
The fisheries sector in the Caribbean is an important source of livelihoods and contributes significantly to food security, providing access to inexpensive protein in a region that is challenged to overcome its overdependence on a carbohydrate-focused diet. While the sector is not a leading contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of most countries, it is important to the development and stability of rural and coastal communities. Additionally, the importance of the fisheries value chain and linkages with other sectors such as tourism, is substantial. The COAST case study is presented to demonstrate how climate risk insurance can support governments in their efforts to build back better after a natural hazard event and create a resilient fisheries sector. The COAST parametric insurance product for the fisheries sector was developed by CCRIF SPC under the Caribbean Oceans and Aquaculture Sustainability Facility with financial support from the World Bank and the United States State Department. A COAST policy provides coverage for losses caused by adverse weather to all players in the fisheries industry, for direct damages caused by tropical cyclones to fishing vessels, equipment and infrastructure. It promotes gender equity, as women in the fisheries sector are specifically included. This case study also demonstrates the role of climate risk insurance in advancing shock-responsive social protection. By participating in COAST, governments commit to strengthening their fisheries industry systems and registration procedures, as well as their social protection registries, leading to the sector being more sustainable and resilient to the impacts of climate change.
HOW TO CITE : Anthony, I., E. Emanuel, and G. Sanguinetti Phillips, 2026. The Role of Climate Risk Insurance in Building Resilience of the Fisheries Sector– the Coast (Caribbean Oceans and Aquaculture Sustainability Facility) Example and Application. Contribution 7.1, p493-501 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=942
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Recommended Strategies to Protect Parrotfish Populations in Barbados
Recommended Strategies to Protect Parrotfish Populations in Barbados
Christopher Parker and Shelly-Ann Cox
Fisheries Division, Bridgetown, Barbados
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ABSTRACT
Parrotfish are considered ecologically keystone species that play key roles as grazers, agents of bio-erosion of calcareous substrate, sediment production and transport in coral reef ecosystems and shoreline stabilisation. Recent reported declines in populations of some parrotfish species on Barbadian reefs due to several anthropogenic factors, has raised understandable alarm resulting in calls to significantly reduce or completely ban fishing of parrotfish. This of course will have significant impacts on the livelihoods of the many people involved in the island’s reef fisheries especially given the high commercial and cultural value of parrotfish more commonly known locally as ‘chubs’. Relevant scientific information on this issue is critically examined in this paper and a recommended holistic strategy is proposed to protect parrotfish populations while selectively mitigating the social and economic impacts on the more vulnerable participants in the reef fisheries that harvest parrotfish. The first overarching recommendation is that selective protection of parrotfishes or any subset of species in the family (i.e., corallivorous or non-corallivorous) is not supported. Instead, it is recommended that the focus should be on reducing fishing pressure on all reef fish species eliminating the incidences of wasteful ghost fishing and physical damage to reefs caused by the fishing activities. A co-management approach is recommended as being essential in the implementation of adaptive management measures that are grounded in participatory action research. This approach engenders buy-in, cooperation and effective compliance with a “carrot” rather than the “stick” approach, as is considered vital to the success of these initiatives.
HOW TO CITE: Parker, C. and S-A. Cox, 2026. Recommended Strategies to Protect Parrotfish Populations in Barbados. Contribution 6.11, p485-492 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=941
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Uncovering Stakeholder Perspectives on Belize's Managed Access Program: Implications for Sustainable Fisheries Management
Uncovering Stakeholder Perspectives on Belize's Managed Access Program: Implications for Sustainable Fisheries Management
Eric Wade*
Department of Coastal Studies, Integrated Coastal Programs, East Carolina University, North Carolina, USA *
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ABSTRACT
Small-scale fisheries worldwide face mounting pressures from overexploitation, resulting in depleted fish stocks, biodiversity loss, and marine ecosystem degradation. Unregulated open access conditions have emerged as a key driver, prompting a growing need for fisheries reform. Recently, Belize introduced the Managed Access Program (MAP), a rights-based fisheries territorial system aimed at incentivizing fisher ownership and stewardship to promote sustainability. However, implementing managed access involves complex interactions among local and regional actors and issues, raising questions about program feasibility and success. This study combines literature review and semi-structured interviews with 54 fishers and 25 policymakers in Belize's fisheries sector to analyze the MAP and assess initial responses. Findings reveal that the new system primarily repackages traditional fishing areas with weak enforcement of regulations. Stakeholders’ responses varied, with the majority expressing negative views. At the same time, policymakers and fishers hold different conceptualizations of the policy and its expected benefits. These variations suggest that stakeholders' experiences shape unique policy interpretations, affecting compliance and adaptation. Despite addressing fisheries challenges, concerns remain about the MAP's ability to achieve its objectives. Neglecting diverse perspectives may hinder policy acceptance. To address this, innovative and robust approaches should capture these perspectives, enabling a holistic approach to policy creation and implementation.
HOW TO CITE: Wade, E. 2026. Uncovering Stakeholder Perspectives on Belize's Managed Access Program: Implications for Sustainable Fisheries Management. Contribution 6.10, p481-484 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=940
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Utilization of Artificial Reefs for Enhancement of Spiny Lobster Resource
Utilization of Artificial Reefs for Enhancement of Spiny Lobster Resource
Hiroaki Terashima*1, Monique Calderon*2 and Makeba Felix*2
IC Net Limited. Member for the Project for Strengthening Sustainable Use and Management of Coastal Fisheries Resources in the CARICOM Countries (COASTFISH)*1
LA Tower 27 F., 11-2 Shintoshin, Chuo-ku, Saitama-shi, 3306027, Japan.
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Department of Fisheries, Saint Lucia*2
Pointe Seraphine Castries Saint Lucia
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ABSTRACT
The Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus found in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico is a highly valued commercially important species, which is considered a delicacy in the world. In order to manage and conserve the resource of this species, many countries in the region have legislated for fishing restrictions, including minimum size limits, closed seasons, and fishing quotas. However, in several countries, the resources have still faced significant declines owing to overfishing by poaching, habitat destruction and climate change. In order to improve this situation, Japanese aid agencies have implemented an artificial reef project as demonstration tests for development of the nursery ground to enhance the spiny lobster stock. The Overseas Fisheries Consultants Association (OFCA) implemented a model project at St. Vincent and the Grenadines from 2003 to 2005 with the aim of increasing the Caribbean Spiny Lobster stocks, providing technical guidance and lectures to the Fisheries Division through the installation and monitoring surveys of artificial reefs. Subsequent intermittent monitoring observed a large number of spiny lobsters aggregating on artificial reef designed to attract the spiny lobster. In 2020, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) then launched the Project for Strengthening Sustainable Use and Management of Coastal Fisheries Resources in the CARICOM Countries - COASTFISH Project. One of the pilot activities is to deploy an artificial seaweed and an artificial reef combined for development of the nursery habitat for juvenile spiny lobster, and already juvenile spiny lobsters were found on the artificial reef. In this pilot project, local fisherfolks, MPA rangers and officers of the Fisheries Department worked together to develop and monitor the artificial reefs that are inexpensive and easy to install. Such efforts are being made with reference to the "satoumi activities" that are being carried out in coastal areas of Japan.
HOW TO CITE: Terashima, H., M. Calderon and M. Felix, 2026. Utilization of Artificial Reefs for Enhancement of Spiny Lobster Resource. Contribution 6.9, p467-480 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=939
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Ten Years of Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) Closed Season: Evidence From Antigua and Barbuda’s Small-Scale Fishery
Ten Years of Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) Closed Season: Evidence From Antigua and Barbuda’s Small-Scale Fishery
Ian Horsford* and Hilroy Simon
Fisheries Division, Point Wharf Fisheries Complex, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies
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ABSTRACT
Catch and effort and biological data were collected from commercial fishing trips, research trips, at-sea stop and search, and from inspections of processing plants, retailers, and restaurants in Antigua and Barbuda. The objectives were to: 1) appraise the impact of the annual two-month closed season enacted in 2013; and 2) determine trends (catch per unit effort, carapace length, etc.) and status of the fishery. Significant temporal differences existed amongst the mean catch per unit effort (p < 0.001) with the catch rates for traps (fish pots) increasing by at least three-fold after the implementation of the closed season. The odds of catching a spiny lobster via traps was also statistically greater (1.7 times more likely) after the implementation of the closed season (OR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.3, 2.1]); note the mean number of traps hauled per trip per vessel size class were not significantly different between the two periods (p > 0.05). Mean sizes of lobsters were significantly larger (p < 0.05) than the estimate of the size at 50% maturity for females (95.7 mm) and comparable to those over the past two decades. The overall enhancement of the fishery was attributed to the general compliance with the closed season coupled with a catch certification programme that requires exporters to comply with the various management measures (minimum size, closed season, prohibition on moulting and egg-bearing lobsters) as well as provide proof of purchase from authorised sources (i.e., fishers or traders possessing a valid fisher licence and from duly licensed vessels possessing a valid lobster permit). As of 2023, a catch certificate is required for export of any fish (including lobster) or fishery product from Antigua and Barbuda regardless of the destination. The next step in “closing the net” on illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the lobster fishery is adapting the catch certification programme for the other major consumer group – local hotels and restaurants.
HOW TO CITE: Horsford, I. and H. Simon, 2026.Ten Years of Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) Closed Season: Evidence From Antigua and Barbuda’s Small-Scale Fishery. Contribution 6.8, p455-466 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=938
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The Fish Sanctuaries Network: Jamaica’s Quiet Fisheries Success Story
The Fish Sanctuaries Network: Jamaica’s Quiet Fisheries Success Story
Karl A. Aiken1*, G. Andre Kong2 , Oliver Squire3 & Inilek Wilmot4
Fisheries Consultant, 33 Gerbera Drive, Kgn. 6, Jamaica1
& Fisheries Consultant, Maven Avenue Apartments, Kgn. 6, Jamaica2,
Oliver Squire , National Fisheries Authority, East Bustamante Port, Kgn.3,
Inilek Wilmot, Goldeneye Foundation, St. Mary4 *
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(corresponding author)1
ABSTRACT
Jamaica formerly lagged behind other Caribbean nations in the introduction of fish sanctuaries, but this is no longer true. In 2009, the government introduced nine small fish sanctuaries distributed around the island; and in 2023, there were 18 such sanctuaries. The areas selected satisfied ecological and fisheries criteria and importantly, have an associated fishers group chosen to enforce these special protected areas. The initial introduction was the result of two years of collaboration by the National Fisheries Authority (formerly Fisheries Division), and fishers’ groups, in conjunction with the then Fisheries Advisory Board. Nearly all sanctuaries include sheltered coastal habitats with mangroves, sea grass beds, sand patches, and coral while having modest fisheries resources, primarily juvenile in size. Close collaboration with and participation of fishers is a key feature of all the sanctuaries. The 18 MPA’s now include one offshore at Pedro Bank, the island’s major fishing ground and nearly all are doing well. Post-introduction studies have demonstrated that most fish sanctuaries have succeeded in increasing fish species diversity, abundance, and mean fish lengths as well as the restoration of several missing apex predator species over time. Algal cover has also significantly decreased compared to pre-sanctuary conditions. Coral restoration activities also occur in some sanctuaries with some success. One significant success indicator was the call by other fisherfolk groups for fish sanctuaries to be introduced in their areas as generally, Jamaican fish sanctuaries have been quietly succeeding in increasing coastal fisheries biomass.
HOW TO CITE: Aiken, K.A., G. A. Kong , O. Squire and I. Wilmot, 2026. The Fish Sanctuaries Network: Jamaica’s Quiet Fisheries Success Story. Contribution 6.7, p443-454 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=937
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What is the Right Balance Between International Management and the Involvement of Fishing Communities in the Management of Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries?
What is the Right Balance Between International Management and the Involvement of Fishing Communities in the Management of Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries?
Lester Gittens, PhD
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Department of Marine Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs,
Government of The Bahamas, Nassau, Bahamas
ABSTRACT
The Caribbean spiny lobster has an extensive occurrence as it is found in numerous territories from Bermuda to the northern edge of South America. Fisheries based on this species are of equally widespread importance to the Caribbean region. Similarly, the threats to sustainable fishing are just as borderless. Such transboundary threats, the likes of which impact many species, include climate change, illegal fishing, limited management resources and paucity of statistical data. The often-global scale of such challenges necessitate international coordination and cooperation. Indeed this need has manifested itself through various binding and non-binding international agreements seeking to address an array of issues. However, amid the clear need for international management efforts, it should neither be forgotten nor disregarded that direct resource users, in individual communities, must have a say in the management of fisheries resources they depend on. This view is consistent with sustainable development goals. But how is the need for international management, sometimes involving people far removed from the day-to-day needs of communities in distant countries, balanced against the obligation to include communities in management processes? These contrasting ideals are not easy to achieve and can be compounded and confounded by a lack of a clear voice coming from communities. It will take international, national and community level efforts to overcome these challenges.
HOW TO CITE: Gittens, L., 2026. What is the Right Balance Between International Management and the Involvement of Fishing Communities in the Management of Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries? Contribution 6.6, p439-442 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=936
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Update on the Status and Management of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries in the CARICOM Region
Update on the Status and Management of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries in the CARICOM Region
Maren Headley, Milton Haughton, and June Masters
Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) Secretariat
Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City, Belize
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ABSTRACT
The Caribbean spiny lobster fishery is one of the most commercially important fisheries in the region. In 2011, a baseline review on the status and management of the spiny lobster fishery was completed for the CARICOM region. The baseline review identified a number of critical steps that need to be taken towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of Caribbean spiny lobster fisheries. These steps included: i.) Improved data collection and regional standardization of data types; ii) Harmonized regulations at the sub-regional level; iii.) Review and reform governance systems at local, national and sub-regional levels; iv.) Assess and control the illegal lobster fishery. This paper seeks to determine the extent to which the critical steps identified in the baseline review have been achieved and identify current gaps and opportunities for improving management of the spiny lobster resource. The paper also provides an update on the resource status, management objectives, and current regulations for the lobster resource in 17 CRFM Member States. Current landing trends, exports volumes and monetary values are also provided by CRFM Member countries.
HOW TO CITE: Headley, M., M. Haughton and J. Masters, 2026. Update on the Status and Management of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fisheries in the CARICOM Region. Contribution 6.5, p428-438 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=935
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