Abstract
Coral reef herbivores perform the vital function of controlling algal dominance through foraging. Some large herbivores, such as the stoplight parrotfish (Sparisoma viride), also perform reef excavation and bioerosion, essential processes that contribute to nutrient cycling, sediment production, and the creation of bare substrate for increased coralline algae colonization and coral larval settlement. Due to its diverse functional roles and large body size, S. viride is an especially important herbivore on Caribbean reefs. However, anthropogenic threats such as habitat degradation and overfishing continue to threaten S. viride populations and thus the reefs that depend on them. This project, in collaboration with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment, aimed to develop a Species Biodiversity Action Plan (SBAP) to manage and protect S. viride in the Cayman Islands. Data and information were gathered from the published literature and an interview with a Department of Environment manager. Furthermore, to better understand the status of S. viride in the Cayman Islands, data previously collected by the Central Caribbean Marine Institute was analyzed to determine changes in S. viride density and average length in the Cayman Islands from 1999 to 2018. The SBAP produced contains the biological and ecological information necessary to inform effective local conservation strategies and regulations. It also proposes policy, monitoring, and research recommendations for increased protection of S. viride in the Cayman Islands. The information and recommendations in the SBAP can now be used by the DoE to strengthen management measures and legal protections for S. viride in the Cayman Islands.