Researchers from the Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, within the Faculty of Science and Technology, are leading initiatives to manage invasions by species such as flatworms, lionfish, and sun corals, significantly contributing to the island’s ecological health.
Professor of Conservation Ecology, Dr. Julia Horrocks, highlighted the grave threat that invasive alien species pose to native biodiversity, economies, and public health. She emphasized the pivotal role UWI researchers play in supporting government initiatives aimed at preventing the introduction of new invasive species and managing those already present.
One key collaboration is the Cabinet-appointed Working Group on Biodiversity (WGB), where UWI staff provide critical guidance on invasive species management strategies.
A notable success story is that of UWI alumna, Shanna Challenger, whose work led to the restoration of Redonda, a small Caribbean island. Through the removal of invasive species, native wildlife was able to flourish once more, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of focused conservation efforts.
Further research by UWI scientists has contributed to the creation of a biosecure habitat for the endangered leaf-toed gecko, a species found only in Barbados. Connor Blades, a UWI MPhil graduate, led efforts to protect this species through fencing measures, safeguarding it from invasive threats.
Biologist Dr. Darren Browne has been conducting research on invasive flatworms, emphasizing the risk these species pose to earthworms, which play a crucial role in maintaining soil health and supporting food production. His work, part of a larger citizen science project, has been instrumental in raising awareness about the dangers of flatworm spread, particularly through the movement of topsoil.
Ecologist Dr. Henri Vallès has focused on marine invasive species, particularly the lionfish. Despite initial fears, research revealed that lionfish have had no significant negative impact on local fishing communities or fish populations in Barbados. Dr. Vallès advocates for continued targeting of lionfish by spear-fishers to help control their population and protect marine ecosystems.
Dr. Vallès, alongside graduate student Robert Bourne, also led a study on sun corals, which were introduced to the Caribbean in the 1950s. Their research revealed the presence of these invasive corals on artificial structures along the Barbadian coast. A sun coral removal experiment showed that manual removal could be an effective and low-cost strategy for controlling their spread.
The research and conservation efforts led by UWI scientists at Cave Hill underscore the university’s critical role in protecting Barbados’s natural environment. Their work not only contributes to the country’s ecological sustainability but also highlights the importance of strategic, science-driven approaches to invasive species management.