Costa Rica Forest. Frontier is proud to work in one of the most biodiverse places on earth and has been working hard sin
Issue 10 Winter 2014/15
Frontier Quarterly News Letter December 2014 . Issue 1
Mission Statement To conserve the world's most endangered wildlife and threatened habitats and to build sustainable livelihoods for marginalised and under resourced communities in the world's poorest countries. To create solutions that are apolitical, forward-thinking, community-driven, and innovative and which take into consideration the long-term needs of low income communities. About Frontier The Society for Environmental Exploration was established in 1989 as a non-profit conservation and development non-governmental organisation, which operates under the banner name, Frontier. Frontier began with just one volunteer-based project set up by Eibleis Fanning, the founder and managing director of the organisation. Over the past 25 years Frontier has expanded greatly and we now have 8 marine and terrestrial projects in 6 different countries, Cambodia, Fiji, Belize, Madagascar, Costa Rica and Tanzania, as well as partner projects in almost 50 countries, all with the same goal of conserving the local environment and wildlife and creating sustainable livelihoods for the local communities who rely on it.
Inside : Projects Overview
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Marine and Terrestrial Project Specific News
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Frontier Teaching and community Projects
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Frontier Partner Projects
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Web- http://www.frontier.ac.uk/ Email–
[email protected] Phone– 0207 613 2422
by Jenna Griffiths Research and Operations Manager
Overview
Frontier Group Projects Madagascar Forest Working on the island of Nosy Be, Frontier is studying several species of lemur and many species of reptile, bird and butterfly. We are working hard to catalogue biodiversity and understand the effects of deforestation on many critically important and endemic species, with the aim of encouraging additional protections and increasing reforestation efforts.
Fiji Frontier has been invited to work on Beqa Island by the Matakali people (the islands guardians), home to world class dive sites and an incredible diversity of marine life. Frontier is working hard to assess the health of the surrounding coral reef, seagrass and mangrove habitats, with the aim of increasing protection and the sustainability of natural resource use in the area
Belize Frontier established the Belize project in early 2014 on the island of Caye Caulker, home to the famous Blue Hole. Here, Frontier works in partnership with the Fisheries Department to assess the sustainability and effectiveness of the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve. Frontier is working with commercially and ecologically important marine mammals, fish, invertebrates and corals and studying the general health of the reefs, seagrass meadows and mangroves.
Costa Rica Forest Frontier is proud to work in one of the most biodiverse places on earth and has been working hard since 2009 to understand the effects deforestation, poaching and climate change on this country’s diverse but threatened ecosystems, with the aim of informing conservation management actions in the region.
Cambodia Frontier is currently working on the island of Koh Rong, with its warm, turquoise waters and incredible array of marine life. Here Frontier is working alongside Flora and Fauna International, monitoring the health of marine habitats to ascertain the level of disturbance and identify appropriate management strategies.
Marine Conservation Projects
Madagascar Marine Frontier has been working to conserve Madagascar's marine ecosystems for the last 15 years and is currently working on the island of Nosy Be. Here we are collecting baseline data and monitoring coral, mangrove and seagrass habitats, fish and invertebrate populations and investigating species specific population health, with the aim of informing important decisions relating to the protection of this region.
Tanzania Marine Frontier has been working in Tanzania for 25 years and collected the data that led to the set up of the Mafia Island Marine Park in 1995. Frontier is currently working in partnership with the government, to monitor the success of the marine park, essential for informing management actions in Tanzania and worldwide
Tanzania Forest As part of assessing the effectiveness of Mafia Island Marine Park, Frontier’s forest programme, involves assessing the health of the islands mangrove forests and the sustainability of harvesting. As part of this programme Frontier is also working on an internationally important wetland site (RAMSAR), assessing how bird diversity is affected by various agricultural activities.
Terrestrial Conservation Projects
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Frontier Costa Rica Big Cats, Turtles and Primates Costa Rica Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on earth, but its wildlife and ecosystems are suffering from the effects of deforestation and poaching, especially outside of protected areas, with one of the world’s highest rates of deforestation in unprotected forest, half of its forests lost and many species being driven to extinction. Climate change also presents a new challenge for Costa Rican ecosystems.
Frontier and Costa Rica Frontier have been working on the Osa Peninsula near Corcovado NP for over five years, collecting baseline data and monitoring big cats, primates, turtles, neotropical otters, amphibians, birds and butterflies. Frontier is investigating the effects of climate change, deforestation and anthropogenic activities on terrestrial and marine communities, with the aim of informing important decisions relating to the protection of this region.
Species in Focus, by Annabel Field Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), named after their birdlike beaks, are found worldwide within the sub- tropical and tropical regions; Central and Southern America, Africa and SE Asia. They are listed as critically endangered by the IUCN and due to the unique structure and pattern of their shell, they are victims of the illegal wildlife trade to make jewellery and trinkets.
Hawksbills help maintain reef health by feeding upon various substrates, such as sponge, from the reef surface and also provide local income from tourism. Frontier are conducting morning and night patrols in order to survey nest type, egg abundance and tracks and are tagging adults for long term monitoring, as well as guarding and relocating eggs that may be of risk from other disturbance.
Key Activities from this Research Period Frontier have been working hard in the months around Christmas completing important and exciting surveys Primates– Howler and spider monkeys were the focus in the period, with Frontier gaining the first ever estimates of their populations in the region. Abundances were found to be low, thought to be related to human disturbance, a finding that will be important in informing conservation efforts. Neotropical River Otters– Frontier has been busy assessing the habitat preferences of the otter to better understand their distribution and determine the areas that are of conservation priority. Data is still being collected so expect some exciting results in the next period! Birds– Frontier has been assessing the effects of habitat disturbance and elevation on six bird species this period, including four endemic species. As birds are sensitive to change and vital for the health of the forests, they are excellent indicators of ecosystem health and data will be used to determine conservation requirements. Data is still being collected so expect some exciting results in the next period! Turtles– Frontier is monitoring the health and abundance of four species of turtle on the Osa Peninsula. These animals are at risk from development, poaching, predation by dogs and even climate change. This period Frontier found a 75% rise in predation by the coati (an omnivorous mammal) compared to previous years, likely due to high tides exposing nests and reforestation increasing coati populations. A decrease in dog predation was seen, likely due to the reduction in human settlements in the area. Reforestation– Frontier is helping to plant 1000’s of trees on the peninsula to increase suitable habitats for many local species.
Big Cats– Frontier is assessing the movement of cats outside of Corcovado NP as reforestation efforts increase and a biological corridor is created, in order to understand how best to conserve the area for these species. Although a new project, Frontier has already recorded tracks from five cat species, including Jaguar, Puma and Ocelot. Watch out for more interesting results next period!
Project Impact this Research Period First ever estimates of howler and spider monkeys in the region to be used in conservation decisions. A correlation has been found between human settlements, domestic dog abundance and associated turtle predation, showing the need to reduce human disturbance in the area. However, Frontier has also found a possible connection between reforestation and turtle predation by the coati, showing the conflicts that can exist in conservation management. Frontier has discovered that big cats are moving out of Corcovado NP, highlighting the need to protect this vital habitat.
Get Involved Do you want to track big cats in the jungle, search the forest canopy for primates or endemic birds, meander through the jungle in search of the rare and elusive otters? Perhaps you would like to stroll along the beach and monitor turtle populations as the sun sets? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Madagascar Marine Conservation and Diving Madagascar Madagascar’s coast supports extensive coral reef, mangrove forest and seagrass ecosystems, supporting thousands of fish and invertebrate species and many marine mega fauna. Unsustainable fishing activities occur throughout the country, with few restrictions in place and less than 1% of the waters protected. Demand is increasing rapidly, with both population and tourism increases.
Frontier and Madagascar Frontier has been working to conserve Madagascar's marine ecosystems for the last 15 years; currently working on the island of Nosy Be. Here, Frontier is collecting baseline data and monitoring coral, mangrove and seagrass habitats, fish and invertebrate populations and investigating species specific population health, with the aim of informing important decisions relating to the protection of this region.
Key Activities from this Research Period Habitat associations- Coral reef, seagrass and mangrove ecosystems are all vital habitats for fish, being utilised at different life stages by the same species. This period Frontier has been examining the use of these habitats by different species of adult and juvenile fish. Seagrass habitats were found to provide a nursing ground for juvenile fish, offering a source of food and protection from predators. Live, healthy coral was found to be much more species rich than dead coral sites, highlighting the need to protect and conserve these marine ecosystems. Several species were found to use seagrass habitats as juveniles, migrating to coral reefs as adults. This information will be critical in encouraging the simultaneous protection of different marine ecosystems.
Species in Focus, by Emma Edwards Southern Bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) are found throughout the Southern Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Once used as a low cost ingredient in pet food, bluefin tuna has become a highly prized gourmet food, particularly on the Japanese sushi market. Overfishing to meet commercial demand has pushed this slowgrowing species to the brink of extinction and they are currently categorised as critically endangered by the IUCN. As an apex predator, bluefin tuna play a significant role in keeping the ecosystem in balance and their extinction could have unpredictable cascading effects. As part of the Madagascar marine project, Frontier monitors habitats essential to the reproduction and development of bluefin tuna and their prey, collecting data on species abundance to assess ecosystem health and identify effective management practices.
Initial Seagrass MappingSeagrass meadows are not only essential habitat for juvenile fish but also protect coastal areas from erosion. Seagrass meadows in Madagascar have received little attention, with no data collected from Nosy Be. This period Frontier has discovered extensive diversity and coverage in local seagrass meadows, higher than some protected regions in Madagascar, which is essential for supporting high fish biodiversity, increasing primary productivity, oxygenation and sediment stabilisation.
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Opisthobranch and Echinoid SurveysFrontier is currently studying the habitat associations of opisthobranchs and echinoids and have discovered many new species locally . Look out next period for more exciting results.
Project Impact this Research Period Evidence has been found highlighting
the need to protect marine habitats simultaneously, for the conservation of commercially and ecologically important species. Frontier has provided the first estimates of seagrass cover around Nosy Be and has shown them to be of high conservation importance owing to their extensive diversity and coverage, higher than that of marine protected areas. This information will be used to encourage the protection of these areas. Frontier are discovering species of opisthobranch and echinoid never before recorded in the area, essential for encouraging local conservation efforts.
Get Involved Do you want to dive in some of the best sites in the world, assessing the health of important coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass meadows and contribute to the survival of these key marine habitats? Perhaps you would like to search for colourful little nudibranchs on the reefs or survey 100’s of species of marine fish and invertebrates? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
Frontier Madagascar Terrestrial Conservation Madagascar Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot, with many unique and endemic species of fauna and flora. Unfortunately, deforestation levels are high and it is thought that over 90% of forest cover has been lost, with clearance for agriculture and timber being the driving factors. As many of Madagascar's animals rely on forested areas, they are at severe risk of extinction.
Frontier and Madagascar Frontier is currently working on the island of Nosy Be, studying several species of lemur and many species of reptile, bird and butterfly. As forests on the island are being destroyed at an accelerated rate as a result of tourism and agriculture, Frontier is working hard to catalogue biodiversity and determine differences in biodiversity between degraded and primary forest habitats, with the aim of encouraging additional protections and increasing reforestation.
Species in Focus by Annabel Field The black lemur (Eulemur macaco) is listed as vulnerable to extinction by the IUCN and is endemic to northern Madagascar, including Nosy Be. Black lemurs are under threat from deforestation and conflict with agriculture, are hunted for food and captured for the pet trade. They are important seed dispersers, which is vital in maintaining the area’s unique floral diversity. Frontier is collecting data on lemur behaviour and population assemblage in order to make comparisons between primary and degraded habitats, with the aim of increasing protections and encouraging reforestation
Key Activities from this Research Period Lemur Behaviour– Frontier has been busy monitoring the behaviour, abundance and habitat preference of black and nocturnal lemurs to determine the importance of certain habitats and enable conservation efforts to be better directed. Watch out in the next period for some exciting results on this project! Reptile Surveys– Globally and within Madagascar, reptiles are declining rapidly, threatened by deforestation and climate change. Madagascar is of particular importance for reptiles, with 91% of species being endemic. Frontier is currently collecting data on species diversity and abundance in areas with varying levels of degradation and has discovered high levels of generalist, tolerant species in degraded sites and more specialist species in pristine habitat. Bird Surveys– As with reptiles, many species of bird in Madagascar are endemic and are of significant ecological importance. Frontier is currently assessing the effect of forest clearance on bird diversity and abundance. This period Frontier has discovered little difference in diversity across forested and cleared sites, indicating that all sites are of conservation value. Butterfly diversity- Butterflies are an excellent indicator of forest health due to their sensitivity to change. Frontier is currently cataloguing butterfly diversity across the area in order to monitor potential future changes related to climate change or human disturbance. Watch out for some exciting results next period and additional projects relating to human disturbance!
Project Impact this Research Period Frontier’s
forest conservation project on Nosy Be is essential to protect the endemism that occurs in the area and guard against increased risk of extinction from island life. We cannot effectively work to conserve an area without thorough knowledge of the diversity of species. Frontiers work on reptiles is the first step in determining the effects of habitat loss, which species are able to survive in more disturbed areas and those that need extra protections due to their reliance on forested habitats. Frontier’s discovery of high bird diversity in deforested areas highlights the need not to underestimate the conservation value of these site.
Get Involved Do you want to search for and observe lemurs in the forest, scour the forest undergrowth and canopy for rare and endangered reptiles or watch for flashes of colour in the trees as you search for endemic bird species? Perhaps you would like to help determine forest health through surveying unique and interesting butterflies? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Tanzania Marine Conservation and Diving Tanzania Tanzania is one of the world poorest countries, but also one of the most diverse in terms of marine life. Poverty and population growth has lead to an unsustainable reliance on natural resources, with many species at risk of extinction. Mafia island is one of the richest marine areas on the East African coast, harbouring marine mammals that are almost extinct elsewhere and an extensive diversity of coral, fish and invertebrates.
Tanzania and Frontier Frontier has been working in Tanzania for 25 years and collected the data that led to the set up of Mafia Island Marine Park in 1995. Frontier is currently working in partnership with local authorities monitoring the success of this marine park, essential for informing management actions in Tanzania and worldwide.
Species in Focus by Annabel Field Crown-of-thorns starfish, (Acanthaster planci) is native to coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region, from Africa to SE Asia and Australia. It is a venomous starfish with thorn-like spines covering its exterior, giving the crown-like appearance. It consumes fast growing corals such as Staghorns, allowing slower coral species to form colonies, helping increase coral diversity. Despite its benefits, outbreaks of this species occur approximately every 17 years and pose a significant threat to reef systems, reducing coral cover by up to 50% in some areas. Frontier are surveying the distribution and abundance of this species in order to detect any increases in its population, allowing for management actions before it is too late!
Key Activities from this Research Period As we enter the last year of our monitoring programme we are busy ensuring all species and habitats have been effectively assessed against premarine park levels. Coral– Frontier has discovered high levels of fire coral in areas affected by extreme climatic events. This coral is much faster growing, colonising large areas and preventing other species from growing. This dramatically alters the ecology of the reef , reducing fish diversity and may lead to the extinction of some reef species. Fish– The general use zone, where fishing is permitted, showed the lowest diversity of fish by x 3, with key commercially and ecologically important species, such as sweet lips and groupers, found at higher abundance and size in the core zone, where fishing is not allowed. Fish diversity was also found to decrease with increasing temperature as all species will have an upper temperature limit. Invertebrates– The core zone had the highest abundance and diversity of invertebrates, especially sea cucumbers, anemones, octopus and feather stars. Some species, such as nudibranch, cowries and segmented worms, did not fit this pattern and were higher in specified use or general use zones, where fishing and additional tourist activities are permitted. Worryingly, Frontier’s assessment of fishing vessels has shown that more boats are found within the core zone, where fishing is prohibited, a finding that requires further exploration.
Project Impact this Research Period Frontier has shown how extreme
climatic events effect reef systems and has linked this to a reduction in fish diversity and shown how increasing sea temperatures, even by one 1° C, can reduce fish diversity, highlighting the need to tackle climate change. Frontier is beginning to highlight the effectiveness of marine protected areas off limits to fishing activities, showing higher fish diversity and abundance. This information will encourage further protection of critical marine habitats. Frontier’s finding of high fishing levels in the core use zones is concerning. However, identification of this trend is important and Frontier will continue to monitor fishermen behaviour and raise awareness within the marine park.
Get Involved Do you want to dive in some of the best sites in the world, assessing the health of important coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass meadows and contribute to the survival of these key marine habitats? Perhaps you would like to search for colourful little nudibranchs on the reefs or survey 100’s of species of marine fish and invertebrates? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Tanzania Terrestrial Conservation Tanzania Mafia island , in Tanzania, is home to an internationally important wetland site , which is of critical importance for many bird species. Along its coast mangrove forests support a wide diversity of terrestrial and marine life and protect coastal areas. The island is also home to coastal forests that support many endemic species. All these habitats are at severe risk of deforestation for timber and agriculture
Tanzania and Frontier Frontier has been working in Tanzania for 25 years and collected the data that led to the set up of the Mafia Island Marine Park in 1995. Frontier is currently assessing the health of the island’s mangrove forests and the sustainability of harvesting, whilst assessing bird diversity on the island against various agricultural activities.
Species in Focus by Emily Morshuis The common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious) is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting fresh water and grassland habitat. It is under threat and categorised as ‘vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List. Threats include illegal poaching for meat and ivory encased in their tusks, habitat loss from agricultural development and water diversion for human settlements. It is an ecosystem engineer, of critical importance to the maintenance of African wetland habitat, home to a multitude of plant and other wildlife species. The species, is of huge conservation value as a source of genetic diversity, in addition to being a valuable ecotourism attraction. Field staff at Frontier are conducting interviews with locals regarding sightings of the common hippopotamus to determine the extent of their presence and are assessing species abundance from current sightings.
Key Activities from this Research Period Wetland Bird Seasonality– This period Frontier continued its seasonal monitoring of birds across a range of habitats. It was expected that bird diversity and abundance would reduce in the semi-wet season. However, results showed no such reduction, highlighting the need for year round protection of this area. Results also showed increased diversity in wetland habitat when compared with paddy fields, highlighting the need to conserve this habitat.
Mangrove harvesting and associated fish biodiversity- Mangroves provide essential habitat for many species of invertebrate and fish and function under a symbiotic relationship with coral reef and seagrass habitats. This period Frontier discovered a higher diversity and abundance of fish in forests where trees were older with more complex structures, and where tree cover and regrowth was highest, suggesting that older trees and coverage provide increased shelter and food source for fish. Frontier also discovered an association between deadwood in the water and fish abundance, with fish found to feed on this material. As locals tend to cut smaller mangrove branches to reach larger sections, this highlights the need to leave unsuitable material in the area. Hippo observations– Frontier is currently studying the hippo population in the nearby freshwater sites to determine population structure. It is hoped in the near future that Frontier will be able to access additional hippopotamus populations located in the north of the island that are known to be at risk from illegal hunting. Watch out for some exciting results!
Project Impact this Research Period Frontier’s results in this period
highlight the need to protect the area in the semi-wet season, from October-December. It is essential to track bird movement across their range in order to understand where to direct conservation efforts. Frontiers results on mangroves this period highlight the need for older more complex tree structures in mangrove forests. These results show how unsustainable harvesting will negatively impact fish abundance and diversity, which may also affect associated reef an dseagrass habitats. Frontier will be able to use its data on the importance of deadwood to raise awareness of its importance with local villagers.
Get Involved Do you want to work on bird surveys on an internationally important wetland site or observe the powerful yet majestic hippopotamus? Perhaps you would like to help determine the health of critically important mangrove forests and their associated fish populations? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Fiji Marine Conservation and Diving Fiji Fiji is the soft coral capital of the world, with extensive, pristine coral reefs and is home to a diverse range of fish and marine invertebrate species, as well as many marine mega fauna; turtles, sharks, dolphins, whales and rays. Although reefs are in good health, as populations increase, fishing is becoming unsustainable and pollution is on the rise. Climate change has already led to mass bleaching events in 2000 and 2002 and the threat from climate related damage is increasing.
Frontier and Fiji Frontier has been working in Fiji for over 10 years monitoring the health of its marine ecosystems. In 2013 Frontier moved to Beqa Island, home of the famous Beqa lagoon, with the aim of assessing the health of the surrounding coral reef, seagrass and mangrove habitats. Subsequently, Frontier hopes to work with local people, setting up no take zones and sustainable harvest rates. Species in Focus, by Robin Denson The great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) is as a top predator in marine ecosystems. It has a wide range spanning the subtropical and tropical oceans of the Indo-Pacific, Western Atlantic and Eastern Atlantic. Unfortunately, the IUCN has not yet assessed this species, and in general there is a lack of knowledge in regards to its status, and biology. The great barracuda is of ecological importance, being piscivorous, its presence indicates the diversity and abundance of prey species, which can give an indication of the health of a reef ecosystem. Frontier is surveying the population status of various species of barracuda and using this information to help determine the health of the reefs off Beqa lagoon.
Key Activities from this Research Period Frontier is busy collecting baseline data within the marine habitats surrounding Beqa island, this period focusing on coral cover and diversity of indicator species. Fish biodiversity– Indicator species are important to study as they tell us about the health of the reef. This period Frontier discovered the highest diversity of indicator species at three sites where the least fishing occurred. Fishing in these areas was prohibited as a result of local ’tabua’ zones or from strong currents making fishing difficult. Coral Reef diversity– Soft corals are an essential component of a healthy reef system. This period Frontier discovered a significant reduction in soft corals at sites near to human activities. It is likely that sewage deposits into the sea have increased pollution levels. High pollution levels increase the growth of a cyanobacterium, which attaches to the coral, limiting the availability of light and oxygen and causing them to perish. Seagrass biodiversity– Frontier has begun an assessment of the seagrass meadows around Beqa island in this period. These underwater meadows are essential for the survival of many fish and associated reef health as juvenile fish utilise the grasses for food and protection from predators. Watch out for the first exciting results from this in the next period!
Project Impact this Research Period Frontier’s results have shown the
effectiveness of local ‘tabua’ zones in creating healthy reef systems. Evidence of localised pollution and an associated reduction in soft coral abundance will be used to raise awareness amongst local people and tour operators, with the aim of reducing pollution levels on the reefs. Frontier’s first assessment of seagrass meadows will contribute to determining the health of the marine environment around Beqa island, allowing for effective conservation management.
Get Involved
What are Tabua? In Fiji marine areas are not protected by law but are placed under a ’tabua’, where local villages prohibit fishing in the area surrounding their village, allowing regeneration of the area
Do you want to dive in some of the best sites in the world, assessing the health of important coral reefs and seagrass meadows and contribute to the survival of these key marine habitats? Perhaps you would like to search for colourful little nudibranchs on the reefs or survey 100’s of species of marine fish and invertebrates? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Belize Marine Conservation and Diving Belize Belize is home to the world’s 2nd largest barrier reef and boasts some of the best diving in the world. Marine life is diverse and abundant, with thousands of unique and colourful fish and marine invertebrate and large populations of manatees, sharks, turtles, and dolphins. Due to overfishing, pollution and high tourist activities many species of coral, fish and invertebrate are at risk of extinction, as well as the manatee and several species of turtle.
Frontier and Belize Frontier established the Belize project in 2014 on the island of Caye Caulker, home to the famous Blue Hole. Here, Frontier works in partnership with the Fisheries Department to assess the sustainability and effectiveness of the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve. Frontier is working with commercially and ecologically important marine mammals, fish, invertebrates and corals and studying the general health of the reefs and seagrass Species in Focus by George Powell The Queen Conch (Lobatus gigas) is a marine gastropod mollusc, with a large spiral-shaped shell, that is distributed throughout the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Queen Conches are threatened by increased fishing pressures, as they are harvested for their meat and shells. In Belize, the species is of particular economic significance as it is one of the country’s largest commercial exports. Frontier is currently monitoring conch populations from three marine sites with differing levels of protection, with the aim of monitoring the sustainability of local conch fishing practices and the effectiveness of multi-zone management.
Key Activities from this Research Period Baseline surveys- Frontier has been busy collecting baseline data on the coral, fish and invertebrate species, assessing differences within the distinct zones– Preservation (No fishing or tourism), Conservation (only tourist related activities) and General use (permitting fishing and tourism). Although more data is needed for effective analysis, results indicate that coral, fish and invertebrate diversity and abundance are higher in the Preservation and Conservation zones. Queen Conch Surveys– Due to its high economic value, being the 2nd largest export, this species is heavily exploited and listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Strict fishing regulations are in place to enable its recovery, with Frontier being responsible for this monitoring. This period Frontier has found a higher density of conch in protected areas, highlighting the effectiveness of protected zones and their restrictions. Caribbean Spiny Lobster Surveys– This invertebrate is the most commercially important species in the Caribbean, due to its high economic value and a keystone species, vital for the health of the entire marine ecosystem. This species is fished unsustainably and is data deficient and therefore in urgent need of monitoring. Data collection is in its early stages but early indications show very low numbers of this important species. Seagrass and Mangrove Surveys– As development increases in the area, Frontier are surveying seagrass health near areas of disturbance in order to make comparisons with less disturbed sites and are monitoring the sustainability of mangrove harvesting in light of increased deforestation. These habitats are essential for the survival of many fish, invertebrate coral reefs. Watch out for the first exciting results from these projects next period!
Marine Debris Project– Frontier is carrying out regular beach cleans with local schools. Working with project AWARE, we are collecting data on rubbish collected to identify the source, allowing for awareness and education work with local people and businesses responsible for the rubbish.
Project Impact this Research Period First signs of recovery found within
the Preservation and Conservation zones, highlighting the benefit of these protected areas. Higher conch density in protected areas highlights the benefits of marine protected areas in protecting and restoring endangered species. Frontiers work on the Caribbean Spiny Lobster will form the first estimates of this species in the region and will be essential for its protection, the health of coral reef systems and economic stability of local fishermen. Work on seagrass meadows and mangrove forests will determine the effects of anthropogenic disturbance, leading to awareness work and restoration. projects.
Get Involved Do you want to dive in some of the best sites in the world, assessing the health of important coral reefs and seagrass meadows and contribute the survival of these key marine habitats. Perhaps you would like to assess some of the worlds most important marine invertebrates or survey 100’s of species of marine fish. If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
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Frontier Cambodia Beach Conservation Cambodia Cambodia's waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including hundreds of marine fish and invertebrates, dolphins and dugongs and vast areas of coral, seagrass meadows and mangrove forests. The condition of marine habitats are poorly documented and with increasing coastal development, rising pollution, unregulated fishing and changes in climate, Cambodia’s marine life is under threat
Cambodia and Frontier Frontier has worked in Cambodia for over 10 years, consulting on various marine and terrestrial wildlife issues. More recently, Frontier began work on the island of Koh Rong. Here we are working along side local NGOs, monitoring the health of marine habitats to ascertain the level of disturbance and identify appropriate management strategies.
Species in Focus by Robin Denson Parrotfish (Scaridae), named due to their dense arrangement of teeth resembling a parrot like beak, are a colourful family of fish found in shallow tropical and subtropical oceans globally. Although the vast majority of species within the parrotfish family are listed by IUCN with a status of least concern, their populations remains vastly unstudied. Parrotfish have an important role within coral ecosystems in that they are bioeroders, meaning that they eat algae and dead polyps from the reef, thereby shaping the environment. Frontier’s operation in Cambodia is looking at the impact natural and anthropogenic pressures are having on the reef and its associated species, which includes the parrotfish. Frontier is also working with Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration towards establishing a Marine Fisheries Management Area.
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Project Impact this Research Period The relationship found between fish
Key Activities from this Research Period The relationship between coral and fish abundance- Many fish species are heavily reliant on coral reefs for food and shelter. This period Frontier discovered a positive relationship between fish and coral, therefore, where coral cover was more extensive and complex, fish diversity and abundance was higher. Clam diversity and abundance- Clams are essential for a healthy reef system, as filter feeders they remove sediment and nutrients from the waters, preventing build-up on the reef, which would lead to suffocation of the corals from a reduction in light and oxygen. Whilst clams were found to be abundant, a reduction in density was seen from previous surveys and an increase in empty shells discarded onto the reef. This indicates an increase in harvesting by fishermen. Willingness to Pay Surveys– Frontier is currently surveying the willingness of tourists to pay a fee to take part in activities such as diving and snorkelling with the aim of assessing the feasibility of establishing a marine reserve.
and coral highlights the need to preserve coral reefs. This information will be used to encourage the creation of the proposed marine protected area within Cambodian waters. The reduction in clam density and increase in empty shells from harvesting could represent the first signs of fishing for this species becoming unsustainable. Monitoring will continue and this information used to raise awareness amongst local fishermen, whilst also being used to encourage protections via the proposed marine protected area Results from the willingness to pay surveys will be fed back to Flora and Fauna International to aid in the creation of a marine protected area.
Get Involved Do you want to snorkel in warm, turquoise waters, assessing the health of important coral reef and seagrass meadows and contribute the survival of these key marine habitats? Perhaps you would like to search for colourful little fish and invertebrates on the reefs? If this sounds like an exciting adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
by Sophie Ellerker and Jenna Griffiths
Frontier Community and Teaching Projects
Teaching Volunteers have been working hard on our teaching programme over the last few months; improving the lives of local children, gaining excellent experience and their TEFL Madagascar Frontier is currently working in a primary school in the centre of Hellville, Nosy Be. Here we work with young children from the island who would otherwise not have the chance to engage with the English language. Volunteers have been preparing and teaching a variety of lessons, gaining valuable teaching experience, whilst creating a fun and friendly environment for the children to learn. in Costa Rica Frontier are currently based at a school in Puerto Jimenez, working with local children to add value to their education and have a positive impact on the community. Frontier works closely with local staff to maximise the educational impact on these disadvantaged children. Fiji Within Fiji, Frontier is currently working within rural schools around Suva, helping improve the lives of impoverished rural communities. Through our teaching programme we are having a positive impact on the local community, adding educational value and increasing sustainable development. Volunteers both prepare and teach lessons with the support of Frontier and local staff and organise additional fun and educational activities with the children. This experience provides the perfect chance for our volunteers to expand on their own teaching and community related skills. Cambodia Poverty and lack of education causes a vicious cycle of deprivation and vulnerability for children in Cambodia, decreasing their chances of a successful and comfortable life. Through our teaching programme in Siem Reap Frontier is working to combat this cycle of poverty, teaching within schools for both orphaned and disadvantaged children. The lessons, games and activities that our volunteers undertake with the children open doors to a range of opportunities for these students. Tanzania Tanzania is one of the world’s poorest countries, and its children often do not get the education that they need. Frontier works with local schools on Mafia Island to address this imbalance . Our volunteers have been working hard over the last few months teaching English and a range of other activities and games to local school children, of whom many without our support would not have access to a teacher.
Community Our volunteers have been working hard over the last few months within the medical, healthcare, sports coaching, journalism and construction fields, improving the lives of local people and adding to their own skill set. Madagascar Aspiring journalists have been reporting on local issues on the island of Nosy-Be. They have been making interviews, videos and photo shoots to create fun and exciting blogs and articles. Our healthcare volunteers have been working hard assisting in local clinics, and construction volunteers have been working on sustainable buildings for pre-school aged children. Fiji Our community volunteers in Fiji have been busy on a number of exciting projects; working in local healthcare centres, publishing articles for some of Fiji’s top newspaper and magazine companies and providing sports coaching for deprived communities. Our healthcare workers have provided hundreds of extra hours of care for local people over the last few months, and without our sports programme these children would not have access to sports at school.
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Frontier Partner Projects
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As the pioneer of eco-volunteering and ethical gap year travel, we have been approached by many organisations over the years for assistance with conservation and humanitarian projects across the globe. The needs of these organisations vary from project to project. They may require funding or resources, additional man power in the form of hard-working, carefully selected volunteers, specialist skills or perhaps they simply need to build awareness of their activities by advertising themselves internationally. Without Frontier’s international standing, wealth of experience and support, many of these small scale local community-run projects would find it hard to promote themselves internationally and would fail to reach new and enthusiastic audiences. They would be unable to develop and extend their valuable and often highly innovative programmes and many worthy causes would fall by the wayside. By working with these host country organisations, we can give them a chance to flourish while at the same time offering volunteers a wide range of exciting projects and adventures in new environments with diverse cultures and languages.
Partner project in Focus – ‘Zimbabwe Black Rhino & Elephant Conservation’, by Emily Morshuis Over the past few decades, wildlife populations in Zimbabwe have suffered immensely, with over 70% of species in serious decline more often than not as a result of illegal poaching. In an effort to combat this, a number of initiatives have been set up that aim to contribute towards a long term, sustainable conservation focusing on the ongoing protection of Zimbabwe’s wildlife. The majestic Black Rhino is one such animal that has suffered at the hands of poachers, but is now the focus of dedicated conservation efforts, including successful breeding and releasing programmes. To date, 14 births have taken place since the introduction of the initiative and 9 rhinos have been returned to the Matusadona National Park in Zimbabwe and one to Botswana. Frontier’s volunteer programme in Zimbabwe is an amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity to contribute to these conservation efforts, and a chance to gain hands-on experience of wildlife conservation focusing on the endangered black rhino and elephants, game park management and community education. Volunteers will have the chance to be involved in a large variety of conservation projects which may include; working with the black rhinos, daily feeding, studying and learning about their behaviour and carrying out antipoaching patrols to ensure the continued safety of the animals – you can be sure that no two days will be the same! Furthermore, volunteers on the programme will have the unique experience of living amongst African animals in the heart of the bush for the duration of the project, experiencing day to day life on a privately owned 10,000 acre game park with all its challenges and joys. The reserve is home to four of Africa’s Big 5 game - lions, elephants, rhinos and buffalos and a huge range of plains game including sable, kudu, waterbuck, wildebeest, crocodile, hippo, giraffes and zebra. Not to mention over 150 species of birds, plus numerous snakes and lizards, making this volunteer programme an animallovers paradise. The success of such conservation initiatives depends on continued awareness and education in schools and in the local community, without which the future of wildlife in Zimbabwe is impossible to secure. Volunteers on the programme play as key role in helping to educate local school-children about conservation, wildlife and the environment as well as gaining a real understanding of what is involved in the running of a game park and vital community development initiatives.
Get Involved We have over 350 partner projects; experience the adventure of a life time, teach and carry out community work in some of the poorest countries in the world or help protect some of the worlds most endangered wildlife. If this sounds like an exciting, ethical adventure to you please visit our website or call us on 02076132422
