Author: Alli Candelmo, Ph.D., Conservation Science Manager
Monitoring fish species to track population growth and general health is vital, and our Conservation Science team has commenced field testing for a new pilot study called SMILE (Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimates). The SMILE Project incorporates the collection of fish length data with the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project, using a special FishSense camera. Developed in partnership with the Semmens Lab at Scripps Institute of Oceanography and UC San Diego (UCSD) Engineers for Exploration (E4E), FishSense is a sleek, handheld underwater imaging device that uses Intel’s depth-sensing camera to collect 3D imagery of individual fishes, which can be used to calculate length, biomass, and health. The goal of the SMILE Project is to develop a survey method and generate a device that recreational divers can use to produce data for fisheries stock assessments, ecosystem-based assessments, and coral restoration monitoring.
REEF is currently pilot testing the FishSense cameras by surveying coral outplanting and monitoring sites designated by NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs initiative in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS). FKNMS Research Coordinator Dr. Andy Bruckner helped select the survey sites. Last year, SMILE surveys were conducted alongside lionfish removals in Islamorada and Looe Key. In May and June, the REEF team, along with Scripps and E4E scientists, conducted SMILE surveys at Carysfort and Horseshoe Reef. Data and images from these surveys are being processed now. Over the coming months we will continue surveying in the Florida Keys, and will also deploy the FishSense cameras during upcoming REEF Field Survey Trips.
This pilot project will provide a proof of concept for citizen science applications. These tools will be incorporated into future REEF programs, including Grouper Moon spawning aggregation research, Invasive Species Program research, and the Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Stay tuned for more field updates about this exciting new project. To read more about SMILE and learn how you can support the project, visit www.REEF.org/smile-project.
SMILE Project partners include Semmens Lab at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD E4E, UCSD Kastner Research Lab, The Nature Conservancy California, South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council, SECOORA/Axiom, and FKNMS. This project is funded in part by a grant from the nonprofit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida (FWFF) via proceeds from the ‘Discover Florida’s Oceans’ license plate. Since its founding, the Foundation has raised and given away more than $50 million for conservation, outdoor recreation and youth programs and camps. For more information, please visit www.wildlifeflorida.org. Additional funding has been provided by The Nature Conservancy and NVIDIA.
Author: Madalyn Mussey, Education and Outreach Program Manager
On June 6-12, more than 600 people from 42 states and seven countries participated in the third annual REEF Fish Out of Water Virtual 5K by running, walking, biking, hiking, swimming, paddling, and more. Together, we collectively completed more than 3,000 kilometers (over 1,870 miles!) and celebrated World Oceans Day in the process.
The Fish Out of Water 5K is more than just a way to get some exercise. By joining in this race, you did something good for yourself, for the oceans, and for others. We're thrilled to share that the 2022 Fish Out of Water 5K raised more than $25,000 for the REEF Oceans for All initiative. Oceans for All supports diversity, equity, and inclusion in marine conservation by providing opportunities for individuals from underrepresented groups to cultivate connections with the ocean. Fish Out of Water 5K proceeds will enable REEF to provide scholarships for marine life education programs to individuals, organizations and schools. Oceans for All also seeks to address financial barriers by providing support for REEF Marine Conservation Interns through monthly stipends and housing while they participate in this career-building program. Click here for more details about Oceans for All.
Thank you to everyone who joined in the Fish Out of Water 5K. Your support and involvement truly makes a difference. 1,597 individuals have taken part in this virtual race since 2020, and we hope to keep increasing that number each year. Be sure to save the date for fourth annual Fish Out of Water Virtual 5K on June 5-11, 2023.
Author: The REEF Team
Our annual summer match is underway, and there's no better time to take action to support marine conservation. Now through August 8, all donations are doubled, up to $70,000. We are very thankful to the Meyer Foundation, the Henry Foundation, and the Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation for their generosity in providing these matching funds. Please consider making a donation today to make twice the impact. You can give online at www.REEF.org/donate, send a check, or call our office at 305-852-0030 to donate over the phone. Your gift will be matched dollar for dollar, and if you are able to give $250 or more this summer, we’ll send you a set of eight limited-edition marine life notecards as shown in the photo above, photographed by REEF Co-Founder Ned DeLoach. Thank you for your support!
Author: Stacey Henderson, Program Services Coordinator
It's never too soon to start making your dive travel plans, and we have plenty of excellent REEF Trip destinations on our 2023 schedule. Trips in the winter and spring have been highly requested, and we're excited to have several great Caribbean options. Visit the links below to learn more about each trip, and when you're ready to book, email trips@REEF.org. Spaces are filling up fast, don’t miss your chance to Take a Dive Vacation That Counts in 2023.
Belize - January 21-28, 2023
Spend a week diving the second largest reef system in the world aboard the Belize Aggressor IV, visiting famous sites like Lighthouse Reef and Turneffe Reef. This trip is the perfect winter getaway and will be a great start to your year! Click here for more details.
St. Thomas - February 18-25, 2023
Explore the wrecks, reefs, and walls of St. Thomas with Dive Aqua Marine. Afterwards, relax in an oceanview room with a private balcony at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. With an all-inclusive resort package and easy travel access - no passport is needed for US citizens! - this trip is a perfect mid-winter getaway for both divers, snorkelers, and non-divers. Click here for more details.
Saba - April 22-29 2023
From shallow patch reefs to deepwater seamounts, Saba has something to offer all types of divers. Thanks to the island's volcanic origins, there are plenty of interesting underwater habitats to explore. Enjoy daily dives with Sea Saba Dive Center and accomodations at Juliana’s Hotel, a locally owned property nestled in the lush hillside.Click here for more details.
Author: Amy Lee, Engagement and Communications Manager
REEF members are the heart of our grassroots marine conservation programs. A diverse community of divers, snorkelers, and ocean enthusiasts support our mission to conserve marine environments worldwide.
This month we highlight Leslie Kopietz. She lives in Minnesota and has been a REEF member since 2011. She has surveyed in the Tropical Western Atlantic region, where she is a Level 5 Expert Surveyor, and has also surveyed in Hawaii. She's conducted nearly 300 REEF surveys and we're excited to see more from her in the future. Thank you for being a part of REEF, Leslie!
When and how did you first volunteer with REEF?
A search for fish identification materials first led me to REEF. As a diver, REEF’s mission resonated with me and I became a member in 2011. My first experience volunteering came when I joined the field survey trip to Cozumel in 2015. The other divers on that trip were so helpful and enthusiastic, pointing out fish, sharing photos and confirming “fish finds." I had a great time improving my fish identification skills and completing surveys. I became a fish geek with a purpose.
What inspires you to complete REEF surveys?
I love the challenge of doing REEF surveys. Every dive becomes like a treasure hunt. Will I see a fish I don’t recognize? Will I get a decent photo? Will I find a cryptic species hidden in a hole? Will I add a fish to my life list? Some of the best treasure hunts happen where the scenery is least impressive. Dives over muck, rubble and grass are great for spotting new fish. Surveying connects me to the ocean and its life.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned doing a REEF fish survey? It is interesting to me that there is still so much to be learned about fish taxonomy. In the time I have been surveying new species have been described and existing ones have been reclassified. Early in my surveying experience I was in the Cayman Islands. I was able to add the newly described Cayman Cleaning Goby and Cayman Sponge Goby to my life list. It’s cool to think that our survey data may contribute to evolving fish knowledge in some small way.
What is your most memorable fish find?
On a dive in Grand Cayman a few years ago I spotted my first and only Golden Hamlet. We were at Chelonia Wall off Seven Mile Beach. I was waiting for the other divers to descend so I was alone. No one could hear me yelling my amazement into my regulator. I pursued that iconic little fish taking photos like I was the paparazzi. After the dive I shared my Golden Hamlet photos on the boat and got polite responses like “nice”. At that moment I really missed my fellow REEF surveyors and fish geeks.
Author: Amy Lee, Engagement and Communications Manager
REEF Fest 2022 registration is open, and you’re invited to join us October 13-16 in the Florida Keys. REEF Fest is an annual event that includes diving, snorkeling, kayaking, free ocean seminars, socials and more. Each morning of REEF Fest (Thursday-Saturday) you can join in one of our dive/snorkel charters, or go on a guided kayak eco-tour through the mangroves. Our REEF Fest eco-excursion partners are:
Quiescence Diving Services in Key Largo – Diving spaces available on Thursday, Friday (sold out), and Saturday (sold out).
Key Dives in Islamorada – Diving spaces available on Friday and Saturday.
Amoray Divers in Key Largo – Diving or snorkeling spaces available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo – Guided kayak eco-tours available on Friday or Saturday.
Spaces are filling quickly, so be sure to register soon. You can book your spaces when you register for REEF Fest. Visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest/diving for all the details. We look forward to seeing you in the Florida Keys this fall!
Author: Alli Candelmo, Ph.D., Conservation Science Manager
Be sure to join us for the Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival on Sept. 8-11, 2022! The event includes two days to collect as many invasive lionfish as possible, followed by a family-friendly lionfish festival hosted at the picturesque Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina in Islamorada. The festival is open to the public and features lionfish tastings, drink specials, educational demonstrations, games, interactive booths from environmental vendors, live music, and more. Visit www.REEF.org/derby for all the details and check out the 2022 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival Facebook event.
The REEF Lionfish Derby Series is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, including Sharkey's Pub & Galley Restaurant. Located in downtown Key Largo on the Port Largo canal, Sharkey's Pub has everything from waterside dining, pool and darts, to local beers. If you're in the Key Largo area, come by Sharkey's on Saturday July 16 for Rockin' the Dock, their anniversary celebration. Thank you Sharkey's, for your support of REEF Invasive Species Program!
Teams of two to four people may register to compete in the derby. Be sure to sign up soon to take advantage of the early bird rate of $75 per team, available until August 8. Registration is available online here. You can also stay up to date on derby info and connect with other teams by joining the REEF Invasive Lionfish Facebook Group.
Author: Sierra Barkdoll, Citizen Science Coordinator
This month, we're daring you to complete TWO Conservation Challenges: the Great Annual Fish Count (GAFC) Challenge and the Citizen Science Story Challenge. An annual event, July's Great Annual Fish Count celebrates fish surveying all month long! To complete the GAFC Challenge, submit a survey in the month of July or attend a Great Annual Fish Count event. You can check out GAFC events near you at www.REEF.org/gafc.
To complete the Citizen Science Story Challenge, send a photo of yourself and a short story of how you’ve participated in a REEF programs or Field Survey Trip to conservationchallenge@REEF.org.
There's one more sticker opportunity for this month. July 31 is the last day to enter your photos into the 2022 Discover the Sea Photography Contest! You may submit up to three photos in each category including Fish Portrait - Tropical, Fish Portrait - Temperate, Macro, Invertebrates, REEF in Action, and Habitat/Seascape/Environment. Photos will be judged using a popular vote, beginning on August 1. Winning photos will be featured on REEF’s website, social media, and other communications channels. For complete details including rules and policies, visit www.REEF.org/photocontest. You can earn another Conservation Challenge sticker for entering a photo or voting in the contest.
For more information about the Conservation Challenge and details about other stickers you can add to your collection, visit www.REEF.org/conservationchallenge.
Author: Sierra Barkdoll, Citizen Science Coordinator
REEF's online programs are free and open to everyone! Here's what is coming up in the next several weeks:
Into the Blue Book Club
Thursday, July 14, 8pm EDT
Click here to register.
During our book club meeting, we'll discuss The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See. The book is a fascinating story about the haenyeo, the "sea women" of South Korea. The haenyeo dive up to 20 meters below the surface without the aid of air tanks, to harvest creatures like abalone and sea urchins. Author Lisa See will also be joining the meeting for a Q&A session.
Fishinar: Adventures Under the Blue Heron Bridge
Tuesday, July 19, 8pm EDT
Click here to register.
Blue Heron Bridge (BHB) in West Palm Beach, Florida, is home to plenty of interesting fish, from frogfishes to batfishes and more. Discover some of the unique species at BHB, plus tips for exploring this incredible place.
Fishy Hour: Fish Jeopardy - Caribbean Style!
Tuesday, August 2, 8pm EDT
Click here to register.
Join us for a fun, Jeopardy-style game to test your knowledge of fish found in the Tropical Western Atlantic region. Feel free to play the game, or just sit back and enjoy!
Author: Janna Nichols, Citizen Science Program Manager
Welcome to Citizen Science Corner, our quarterly feature to celebrate those who recently reached a milestone in our Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Here are achievements from April, May, or June 2022:
Juvenile Hamlet Award
The Juvenile Hamlet Award is for individuals who have conducted 500+ REEF surveys. We are recognizing two REEF members who have recently joining the Juvenile Hamlet Club:
- Tammy Coble - surveys conducted in TWA, HAW, TEP and SAS regions
- Jackie Myers - surveys conducted in TWA, PNW, HAW, and SOP regions
Experience Level Advancements
REEF Experience Levels are a way for divers and snorkelers to measure their fish ID knowledge along with their surveying experience. From beginner to expert, you'll find plenty of resources and friends to help you along the way. Experience Levels 2, 3, 4, or 5 are achieved through submitting a certain number of surveys and passing a fish ID test. For more info, visit www.REEF.org/experiencelevels. Let's hear it for these REEF members who have improved their fish ID skills!
All listed below are Level 2 unless otherwise noted.
California (CAL)
Amy Meier
Anaelisa Aburto
Charles Daniel
Declan Mulvany
Jonathan Kim
Linette Tobin
Central Indo Pacific (CIP)
Rachael Lewus
Hawaii (HAW)
Madalyn Mussey
Indian Ocean/Red Sea (IORS)
Carol Cox
Pacific Northwest & Alaska (PNW)
Caroline Broadbent
Sue Langston
Tropical Western Atlantic (TWA)
Carmen Toanchina - Level 5
Marsha Davis - Level 5
Todd Fulks - Level 4
Ed Benjamin - Level 3
Sarah Hartung - Level 3
Adam Pelofske
Adam Ragab
Addyson Robinson
Aiden Forkins
AJ Pedrick
Alana Hill
Allie Kinjerski
Almani Wilber
Alyssa Estrada (REEF Marine Conservation Intern)
Anne den Otter
Audrey Wagoner
Beckie Scaife
Bergen Schmid
Brynn Fricke
Cameron Essert
Cayla Bernstein (REEF Marine Conservation Intern)
Charlotte Bedford
Connor Saaty
Courtney Chinn
Craig Lynch
David Keyser
Doris Zahner
Dottie Grimes
Drew Osler
Ella Mossbacher
Ella Neal
Emily Perilla
Emily Pinneo
Emily Stuller
Erin O'Neil
Ethan Buck
Evana Somareddy
Evander Kummer
Gabriella Meinck
Gaby Bertrand
Grace Davis (REEF Marine Conservation Intern)
Guy Pinneo
Hanna Latimer-Snell
Heather Brockbank
Ilaria del Basso
Irena Pettigiani
Isabella Chacon
Jeanne Myburgh
Jet Long
Johnny Meek
Joshua Anderson
Joy Johnson
Julie Kennedy
Kelley Staber
Kristy Gross
Lauren Bulik (REEF Marine Conservation Intern)
Lauren Graf
Leigh Stasik
Lindsey Hearst
Louise Signori
Lucan Keyser
Maeva Pleines
Margalete Ezekiel
Maxime Catlin
Megan Maloney
Meriel Medina
Morgan Schmid
Nikodem Pajaczek
Paige Firman
Pamela Osler
Paton Janz
Patrick Idank
Paulette Schindele
Ronin O'Connor
Rowena Michaelis
Sadie Moxon
Shaelyn Gamble
Shay Severns
Sophia LoCascio
Sophia Neiblum
Sydney Macleod
Terence Zahner
Teresa Kontos
Trevor Chaby
Vageli Politis
Victoria Loy
Wilbur Grimes
William Andrews
Author: The REEF Team
Summer is the perfect season for our July Fish of the Month, the Lemon Goby, Vomerogobius flavus!
Survey Regions: The Lemon Goby is found in The Bahamas and northwestern Caribbean, part of the Tropical Western Atlantic (TWA) survey region. Click here to view the REEF database report for this species.
Size: These small fish grow to a maximum length of about 1 inch.
Identifying Features: The Lemon Goby has a thin, elongated body that is orange to bright yellow in color. They have large, dark eyes and a deep notch in their tail fin. Females may have dark dorsal, anal and ventral fins.
Fun Facts: Lemon Gobies get their name from their yellow coloration. They are found in clusters near the top of dropoffs or recesses on steep walls. They may mix with Masked/Glass Gobies and other small, schooling species. They are not frequently reported in the Tropical Western Atlantic, however they were sighted by surveyors during the REEF Field Survey Trip in Roatan last month.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by David Ehlert.
