CMRC supports research projects that study the effects of mass spawning on the dynamics of coral reefs and its implications to coral reef management. This information is essential for modeling climate change and assessing whether or not present day conditions are typical. CMRC supports research projects that make use of undersea techniques to obtain quality long-term data sets that will improve the understanding of the role of the tropical ocean in global climate change. Develop New Value from the Sea Marine biotechnology and aquaculture are rapidly expanding fields that are dependent upon research on the economic and biological suitability of a variety of species for commercial development. This research ranges from exploration and identification of marine organisms with unique bioactive compounds to studies of indigenous Caribbean species for commercial culture or wild stock enhancement.
Marine resources have a relatively untapped potential for commercially important compounds.
Discovery and development of these compounds, usually associated with living marine resources has been a component of research at CMRC for the past 3 years. Research activities include identification of bioactive compounds, determination of mechanisms of action and natural functions of novel compounds, and uses of marine biotechnology in medical and industrial applications. Aquaculture is an attractive alternative to traditional capture fisheries to provide a significant source of food and income for people around the world. In many areas of Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean Islands, however, locally available fishery resources have been reduced to the point where they can no longer satisfy the demand for seafood or marine products. CMRC has a legacy of extensive aquacultural research in the past on Lee Stocking Island in the Bahamas and in Florida.