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In Ivan’s wake: a Darwin Initiative Biodiversity Action Plan for the Cayman Islands

Photo: Colin Clubbe

Invasive Scaevola sericea colonising the north shore of Grand Cayman

The main purpose of this highly collaborative three year Darwin funded project is to produce a sound, government endorsed and realisable Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the Cayman Islands following the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Ivan (reef damage, loss of natural vegetation, pollution and loss of infrastructure). Integral to this aim are substantial elements of: biodiversity mapping of marine and terrestrial habitats based on remotely sensed imagery; research into key endemic and threatened taxa, invasive species and aggregations of regional importance; institutional capacity building in key areas between local partners and taxon specialists; and environmental awareness activities for the general public and key stakeholder groups.

It will only be through a locally developed BAP with a legacy of increased local implementation capacity that sustainable development will be attained during the rebuilding of the infrastructure of the islands. A variety of local organisations are developing a growing interest in native plants and trees, and promoting the benefits of native landscaping to members of the public. Fragmentation of natural habitats and the spread of invasive species, especially in man-modified and coastal areas, is an increasing source of concern.

Major botanical outputs will be: 1) Updated maps of key terrestrial habitats and key species, especially invasives; 2) Invasive plant species collection, identification, mapping and recommendations incorporated into the BAP for their mitigation; 3) Working with local groups to help identify suitable species and encourage the establishment of native species nurseries; 4) Training provision for and establishment of a seed collecting programme; 5) Raised awareness of the importance of native plant diversity by giving talks, interviews and writing articles.

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