Structure of Fish Communities on Caño Island Biological Reserve and Bahía Paraíso and its potential effect on the dolphins’ occurrence

Investigators: Andrea Montero Cordero, Eva Salas de La Fuente, Damián Martínez Fernández, Cristina Sánchez Godinez.

E-mail: amontero@fundacionketo.org

In order to explore the relationship between reef fish associations and the occurrence of dolphins around Caño Island, we will begin by describing the fish communities’ structure through stationary census taken at 5-10 sites around the island. Relative abundance and its relationship to the reef substrate, both on the island and in Bahía Paríso will be determined. The intention is to link at medium and long term the abundance of the potential prey of dolphins with their occurrence and foraging behavior. This study represents initial efforts for future development of monitoring studies to assess the stability of the tourist and ecological resources. These include the inhabitants and cetaceans of the area.

We also thank to: Rangers from  Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño, Hotel Águila de Osa Inn, Cabinas Jademar and  Emily Tours.