Carib Scope

分类： science

  • Dominican Republic will host international meeting on sea turtle conservation

    Dominican Republic will host international meeting on sea turtle conservation

    Santo Domingo will transform into the epicenter of marine conservation efforts as the Dominican Republic prepares to host the prestigious Annual Meeting of the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (Widecast) from March 26-29, 2026. This pivotal gathering will unite scientific experts and conservationists from across the Caribbean basin to address critical challenges facing endangered sea turtle populations.

    The Ministry of Environment’s Vice Ministry of Coastal and Marine Resources confirmed the four-day symposium will facilitate unprecedented regional collaboration. Widecast represents a formidable coalition of conservation professionals spanning more than 40 nations and territories, collectively working to reverse population declines through scientifically-grounded management strategies.

    Central to the event’s mission is advancing technical exchange and scientific cooperation throughout the Wider Caribbean region. The network’s coordinated approach emphasizes capacity building and knowledge sharing to enhance conservation outcomes for multiple threatened sea turtle species.

    A dedicated session on March 27 will spotlight the Dominican Republic’s conservation initiatives, featuring comprehensive presentations from national institutions. These will showcase monitoring methodologies, community engagement programs, and educational campaigns implemented throughout the country’s coastal regions. Discussion will focus on identifying both persistent challenges and emerging opportunities in species protection.

    The urgency of these efforts is underscored by recent conservation data. During 2025, environmental authorities monitored 237 leatherback and hawksbill sea turtle nests across Dominican beaches. Conservationists implemented strategic interventions including the careful relocation of 71 vulnerable nests for protected incubation, while 166 nests remained in their natural habitats. These efforts culminated in the successful emergence of 635 hatchlings, demonstrating tangible progress in regional preservation initiatives.

  • Inspired by family, fuelled by science

    Inspired by family, fuelled by science

    Dr. Jhodi Webster’s scientific journey began with a personal tragedy—watching her stepfather’s memory gradually deteriorate following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. This profoundly painful experience ignited a determination that would ultimately define her career path and research ambitions.

    Now a 28-year-old post-doctoral research fellow at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, the Jamaican scientist is conducting cutting-edge research on the very disease that affected her family. Her work focuses on understanding neurodegenerative mechanisms while building connections with patients and caregivers facing similar challenges.

    Webster’s academic journey began at St Andrew High School for Girls in Jamaica, where she initially aspired to become a medical doctor. Her stepfather’s early-onset dementia diagnosis, however, redirected her ambitions toward medical research. In 2016, she migrated to the United States on scholarship to pursue neuroscience studies at Agnes Scott College.

    Her research examines the intriguing overlap between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases—two progressive neurodegenerative disorders with distinct symptoms but shared characteristics of cognitive decline and dementia. Webster’s doctoral work at the University of Alabama at Birmingham involved developing novel animal models that incorporate toxic proteins found in patients’ brains, enabling detailed study of neuroinflammatory responses.

    “We’ve demonstrated that when Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s pathology overlaps in brains, it triggers a distinct immune response not seen in cases with pure protein pathology,” Webster explained. This critical insight opens new therapeutic possibilities targeting both the toxic proteins and inflammatory responses in the brain.

    Her research has garnered significant recognition, with numerous presentation awards and scholarships from organizations including the Parkinson’s Association of Alabama. Beyond laboratory work, Webster has prioritized community engagement, connecting with caregivers and patients whose experiences mirror her family’s journey.

    “Seeing someone you’ve known for years become a shell of themselves is devastating,” Webster shared. “That personal connection makes this research profoundly meaningful—it’s not just about finding a cure but about connecting with those directly affected.”

    At Mayo Clinic, Webster continues her pioneering work, investigating how neuroinflammation contributes to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and ALS. Her research aims to develop targeted immunotherapies that could modify disease progression rather than merely addressing symptoms.

    While acknowledging that a complete cure remains ambitious, Webster remains committed to developing treatments that improve quality of life for neurodegenerative patients. “Patients can live 10-20 years with these diseases, but it’s often with low quality of life,” she noted. “Developing targeted therapies to prevent neuronal death and cognitive decline is my immediate mission.”

    Reflecting on her journey from Jamaica to elite medical research, Webster expresses both pride in her accomplishments and gratitude for the mentors who supported her path. Her work stands as a testament to how personal experience can drive scientific innovation and compassion in equal measure.

  • Herman Sno Lezing 2026: talenten gehuldigd en onderzoek naar podosiri-yoghurt centraal

    Herman Sno Lezing 2026: talenten gehuldigd en onderzoek naar podosiri-yoghurt centraal

    Suriname’s scientific community witnessed dual celebrations of innovation and academic excellence during the tenth annual Herman Sno Lecture on Wednesday. The event, organized by the Herman Nelson Sno Stichting (HNSS) foundation established in 2017 by late former president and mathematician Drs. R.R. Venetiaan, showcased groundbreaking food science research while honoring emerging STEM talents.

    Lateefa Cairo, a recent graduate in Agricultural Production from Suriname’s Anton de Kom University, presented her pioneering research on incorporating açai (podosiri) pulp into yogurt formulations. Her comprehensive study analyzed multiple dimensions including nutritional enhancement, physicochemical properties, microbiological quality, and sensory characteristics. The research demonstrated that yogurt containing 20% açai pulp concentration achieved optimal results across nutritional value, shelf stability, and consumer preference metrics. Cairo emphasized the commercial potential for developing a distinctive Surinamese dairy product that leverages local biodiversity.

    Prior to the research presentation, the foundation recognized exceptional young scientists: Lincoln Zhang, winner of Suriname’s 2025 Junior Mathematics Olympiad; Jun Qiang Jason Hu, Suriname’s top performer at the 2025 International Physics Olympiad; and Shiwani Ramcharan, the first mathematics graduate from the university’s 2021 cohort. Each honoree received commemorative certificates and gifts acknowledging their achievements.

    The HNSS foundation continues to expand its educational outreach through initiatives like HNS Talk sessions in secondary schools, which promote STEM career awareness, and HNS Mini Science Day events that enable senior students to conduct hands-on experimental learning. These programs collectively strengthen Suriname’s scientific infrastructure while fostering homegrown innovation capacity.

  • What caused this sea of fog

    What caused this sea of fog

    Residents across southern Trinidad’s low-lying regions and undulating hills have been treated to a spectacular meteorological display in recent days, observing one of nature’s most elusive atmospheric phenomena. Each dawn has unveiled an expansive sea of fog enveloping valleys and hovering above swamp territories in a breathtaking natural exhibition.

    The dense concentration of suspended water droplets creates such pronounced opacity in certain areas that motorists must engage vehicle headlights for safe navigation, with visibility frequently dropping below 100 meters. This ephemeral natural spectacle maintains its presence only briefly during the early morning hours, gradually dissipating as solar intensity increases following sunrise.

    This remarkable phenomenon finds its explanation in complex atmospheric thermodynamics. The observed fog formation constitutes a classic demonstration of temperature inversion—a meteorological condition where the normal atmospheric temperature gradient becomes inverted. During stable nocturnal conditions, the Earth’s surface and adjacent atmospheric layers undergo radiational cooling, emitting long-wave radiation into space.

    This process triggers a cascade of thermodynamic responses: the cooled ground surface induces temperature inversion conditions, causing moist air near the terrestrial boundary to cool toward its dew point temperature. Depending on substrate moisture availability, additional evaporation may occur, effectively elevating the dew point within this stabilized atmospheric stratum and consequently accelerating radiation fog development through enhanced condensation nuclei activity.

  • Cocaine and caffeine found in reef sharks off Eleuthera, study finds

    Cocaine and caffeine found in reef sharks off Eleuthera, study finds

    A landmark scientific investigation has revealed alarming evidence of human pollution infiltrating marine ecosystems through apex predators. Researchers from the Cape Eleuthera Institute and international partners have documented the first global detection of caffeine and acetaminophen in shark bloodstreams, alongside the initial discovery of cocaine and diclofenac in Bahamian sharks.

    The peer-reviewed study, published in Environmental Pollution, analyzed blood samples from 85 sharks across five species inhabiting nearshore waters around Eleuthera. The comprehensive screening identified four contaminants—caffeine, cocaine, acetaminophen, and diclofenac—present in 28 specimens spanning three species: Caribbean reef sharks, Atlantic nurse sharks, and lemon sharks.

    Caffeine emerged as the most prevalent compound, detected in 27 sharks across all three affected species. Cocaine was identified in two sharks, while the pain reliever acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory diclofenac appeared in three sharks and multiple species respectively. The contamination pattern exhibited strong geographical correlations, with the Aquaculture Cage site showing the highest concentration levels, particularly in Caribbean reef sharks.

    Researchers attribute this contamination distribution to localized human activities rather than species-specific factors. The affected sites, including Boathouse Cut and Kemps Creek, experience significant tourism-related traffic, with liveaboard vessels and diving excursions potentially contributing to wastewater discharge in offshore environments.

    The physiological analysis revealed metabolic variations between contaminated and uncontaminated sharks. Caribbean reef sharks with detectable contaminants showed reduced urea and elevated lactate levels, while Atlantic nurse sharks exhibited lower triglycerides. Lemon sharks demonstrated decreased triglyceride and lactate levels when contaminated.

    Although the study doesn’t establish direct causation between contaminants and health impacts, these metabolic shifts suggest potential stress responses or altered physiological functioning. The research underscores how tourism development, vacation homes, and wastewater discharge introduce pharmaceuticals and stimulants into marine food webs, with caffeine serving as a particularly significant indicator of human-sourced pollution.

    The findings carry substantial implications for The Bahamas’ marine conservation efforts and shark-diving tourism industry, highlighting the invisible penetration of human pollutants even in seemingly pristine marine environments.

  • Leisure : Did you know ? #7

    Leisure : Did you know ? #7

    Deep within Haiti’s dry forest ecosystems grows Guaiacum officinale, known locally as ‘Gwayak’—a botanical marvel renowned for possessing one of the world’s densest woods, so heavy it sinks in water. This extraordinary species, often called ‘holy wood’ or ‘tree of life,’ displays striking blue blossoms against its evergreen foliage and carries profound historical significance in traditional medicine.

    The tree’s resin was historically utilized to treat various ailments, earning its medicinal reputation. However, the very properties that make guaiac wood exceptional—its density and durability—have also made it highly sought after for shipbuilding and luxury craftsmanship, contributing to its threatened status today.

    With an extremely slow growth rate, guaiac populations struggle to recover from exploitation. Its presence in Haiti’s coastal regions serves as a critical indicator of forest ecosystem health. Conservationists emphasize that protecting this species represents more than preserving biodiversity—it safeguards a living connection between Haiti’s medicinal heritage and its unique natural patrimony.

    The survival of Guaiacum officinale directly correlates with efforts to combat rampant deforestation in Haiti’s coastal areas. This conservation challenge highlights the delicate balance between preserving natural resources and addressing human pressures on the environment.

    This botanical profile originates from educational materials developed for the HaitiLibre Quiz platform, which launched in January 2026 to promote knowledge about Haiti’s cultural and natural heritage. The platform offers dozens of free, accessible games in both French and English across three difficulty levels, with new content added monthly.

  • ‘No scientific evidence to suggest John Crow population on decline’

    ‘No scientific evidence to suggest John Crow population on decline’

    Environmental authorities and ornithological experts in Jamaica have addressed growing public apprehension regarding the perceived decline of the island’s turkey vulture population, locally known as John Crows. Following observations of reduced sightings, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, concerns have emerged about the status of these scavenger birds. However, scientific assessment reveals no concrete evidence supporting population diminishment.

    Justin Saunders, President of BirdLife Jamaica, emphasizes that current reports remain anecdotal rather than scientifically validated. “Turkey vultures are highly mobile and adaptable birds,” Saunders explains. “Changes in their visibility likely indicate alterations in roosting or feeding locations—potentially influenced by storm damage, habitat disturbance, or modified waste-management practices—rather than demonstrating an actual population decrease.”

    The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) corroborates this perspective, acknowledging that while no formal census has been conducted for the species locally, the population appears “robust and widespread” without immediate causes for concern. Both experts and regulators attribute shifting observation patterns to landscape evolution, including storm-induced damage to roost trees, modifications in forest structure, and changes in livestock disposal practices or roadkill patterns.

    Habitat loss or modification represents the primary potential threat to Jamaica’s turkey vulture population, particularly as human expansion and resource exploitation intensify. Nevertheless, the current consensus maintains that the species remains stable on the island—a reassuring contrast to global trends where nearly 70% of vulture species face threatened classifications.

    Looking forward, NEPA has announced plans to collaborate with stakeholders to conduct comprehensive studies examining key variables affecting the species, ensuring continued monitoring and informed conservation strategies.

  • COMMENTARY: Second Dyabloten discovery at cable car project site

    COMMENTARY: Second Dyabloten discovery at cable car project site

    In an extraordinary wildlife encounter, Darnell Carbon of Morne Prosper, Dominica, has potentially become the first living Dominican to handle two critically endangered Dyabloten birds within an eight-month period. The latest encounter occurred on February 10, 2026, when Carbon’s colleague discovered a grounded black-capped petrel at the Upper Station of the island’s Cable Car Project.

    The nocturnal seabird, known scientifically as Pterodroma hasitata, was found nestled within steel formwork designated for concrete flooring at approximately 3:00 AM. Carbon, who had previously cared for another Dyabloten in May 2025, carefully retrieved the creature from the construction site at 8:00 AM, noting its significantly larger size and damp plumage.

    Remarkably, the bird demonstrated exceptional tameness toward Carbon, climbing onto his arm and head while resisting handling by other workers. Carbon provided paternal care for the avian visitor, housing it in a box with warming blankets for two days. The bird exhibited unusual behaviors including using its prehensile beak to climb onto Carbon’s bed.

    The reunion concluded on February 12 when the petrel launched from Carbon’s shoulder at daybreak, executing a circular flight pattern before disappearing toward Morne Nicholls’ summit. Carbon speculates this might be the same individual from his previous encounter, now nine months matured, based on its recognizable behavior and apparent familiarity.

    The black-capped petrel remains one of the Caribbean’s most elusive seabirds, currently known to nest exclusively on Hispaniola despite historical presence on multiple islands. Their eerie nocturnal calls earned them the colloquial name ‘little devil’ in local dialects. While Dominica has documented several grounded specimens, no active nests have been located on the island despite extensive searches using specialized detection methods.

    This exceptional encounter provides valuable insight into the species’ movement patterns and behavior, offering hope for conservation efforts aimed at protecting these critically endangered seabirds.

  • Tissue Culture Laboratory to Open in Bethesda

    Tissue Culture Laboratory to Open in Bethesda

    The agricultural landscape of Antigua and Barbuda is poised for a significant technological transformation with the imminent inauguration of the Bethesda Tissue Culture Laboratory. The Hon. Minister for Agriculture confirmed the facility’s official opening scheduled for the coming week, marking a pivotal advancement for the nation’s farming sector.

    This cutting-edge laboratory employs sophisticated plant tissue culture techniques, a cornerstone of modern agricultural biotechnology. By cultivating plants from minute tissue samples within sterile, controlled environments, scientists can generate vast quantities of genetically uniform and disease-free plantlets. This method is critically effective for the rapid propagation of key economic crops, including bananas, pineapples, various root crops, and ornamental plants, while simultaneously curbing the transmission of pathogens that commonly plague traditional farming.

    The strategic implementation of this technology is projected to deliver multifaceted benefits for Antigua and Barbuda. Primary objectives include a substantial boost in crop yields, a marked improvement in the overall quality of plant material available to farmers, and a strengthened framework for national food security. By providing local agriculturists with access to superior, disease-resistant planting stocks, the facility is designed to enhance the sector’s resilience against climatic and biological challenges.

    The national Cabinet has formally endorsed the project, recognizing the laboratory as an instrumental component in the broader modernization of the country’s agricultural practices. Officials emphasized the facility’s vital role in equipping farmers with the advanced tools necessary to significantly elevate productivity and sustainability, thereby securing a more robust and self-sufficient agricultural future for the nation.

  • IICA assists in validation process of Costa Rica’s national bio-inputs strategy, spearheaded by the country’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock

    IICA assists in validation process of Costa Rica’s national bio-inputs strategy, spearheaded by the country’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock

    Costa Rica is advancing toward a transformative agricultural policy with the development of its 2026–2034 National Bio-inputs Strategy, receiving comprehensive technical support from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The initiative reached a critical validation phase during a high-level workshop convened at IICA’s Headquarters in San José, bringing together diverse stakeholders to finalize the strategic framework.

    The collaborative effort unites representatives from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), public institutions, academic and research centers, producer organizations, and international cooperation agencies. This multi-sectoral participation ensures the strategy’s goals and implementation mechanisms are technically robust and broadly supported.

    Central to the strategy is creating an enabling environment—spanning regulatory, scientific, technical, and financial dimensions—to facilitate large-scale adoption of biological agricultural inputs. Key objectives include reducing dependency on imported chemical products, enhancing agricultural sustainability, developing local production chains, fostering innovation and technology transfer, and establishing Costa Rica as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture.

    Marco Zapata, IICA’s Country Representative, emphasized the importance of collaborative governance: “We are aligning the public sector, academia, producers, the financial system, and international cooperation under a unified national vision.”

    International partnerships significantly bolster this initiative. German cooperation agencies, including GIZ through its ‘From Farm to Fork’ program and a dedicated bio-inputs project for Latin America, are providing expertise. The effort receives funding from FONTAGRO, a mechanism for agricultural innovation, and involves collaboration with Costa Rica’s National Institute for Agricultural Innovation and Technology Transfer (INTA).

    These collaborations are coordinated via IICA’s Hemispheric Bio-inputs Platform, which enhances the strategy’s technical foundation by facilitating regional knowledge exchange, harmonizing approaches, accelerating scientific validation, and strengthening Costa Rica’s position in the regional landscape of agricultural innovation.