Coral reefs around Statia have experienced significant decline over the past two decades. Hard coral cover has dropped from approximately 25 percent in 1999 to less than 2.5 percent today, with many areas now dominated by algae. This shift has been driven by coral bleaching, disease outbreaks, and the loss of key grazers such as the Diadema sea urchin. Following major die-offs in the 1980s and again in 2022, the natural recovery of these urchins has been limited, leaving corals unable to compete successfully with algae.
To address this challenge, STENAPA’s reef restoration team is cultivating Diadema sea urchins under controlled conditions at the King’s Well National Parks Center. Once the young urchins reach a suitable size, they will be released onto reefs within the Marine Park (12 to 15 meters). Their grazing will help clear algae from the reef, creating space for corals to settle and grow and restore a healthier ecological balance.
This project also supports the development of a new marine laboratory at King’s Well to further strengthen reef restoration work on Statia. Healthy coral reefs are vital for the island’s biodiversity, fisheries, and tourism sector. They provide food, coastal protection, and economic opportunities for the community.
The Statia Government remains committed to safeguarding the island’s natural resources and promoting a resilient and sustainable environment for present and future generations.
For more information about the project, please contact St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation at outreach@statiapark.org or +1 721 581 7082.
