STENAPA starts seawater tank work for marine laboratory expansion

STENAPA is expanding its marine laboratory at the King’s Well National Parks Centre in St. Eustatius. According to STENAPA, the upgraded facility will become the permanent home of its sea urchin restoration project, which is being carried out under the Nature and Environment Policy Programme (NEPP).

STENAPA said excavation has been completed and construction has begun on seawater storage tanks for the laboratory’s water supply and filtration system. The tanks are to hold a reserve of filtered seawater for culturing long-spined sea urchins, known scientifically as Diadema antillarum, including when rough weather interrupts direct pumping from the coast.

The expanded laboratory is intended to support the culture of the urchins from larvae to juveniles, according to STENAPA. The juveniles will then be returned to local reefs. STENAPA said the urchins’ grazing helps control algae and supports conditions for coral growth and recovery. The organisation said coral reefs support marine life, help shield coastlines from wave and storm energy, and provide food for the community.