R (Roselle) Spaargaren

Caribbean reefs are highly threatened by a multitude of stressors, leading to a loss of three-dimensional reef structure and algal overgrowth. Increasing the abundance and diversity of reef grazers to reduce algal overgrowth and give space for coral to settle and grow, would aid reef health and resilience. The next few years, I will be studying the suitability and feasibility of using Tripneustes ventricosus (also known as West Indian sea egg or white sea urchin) for Caribbean reef rehabilitation. I am working with the Reef Grazer Research group in Saba, Dutch Caribbean, in collaboration with Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences (www.vhluas.com/nepp). Living and working on this beautiful island with the ocean being my backyard as well as my work environment obviously means I am living my dream :)