Species list
(*) rare
Master List
Reef list
Mangrove list
Night Snorkel list
Night Beach Seine list
Site specific lists
-TREC grounds
-Tres Cocos
-Mexico Rocks
-Coral Garden 17 degrees 49.997 minutes North 87 degrees 57.540 minutes West
-Deke’s Reef
-Eiley Rocks
-Hol Chan
-Turtle Rock Island 17 degrees 50.677 minutes North 87 degrees 59.106 minutes West
-Shark-ray Alley
-Mangrove Isles
-Pillar Coral
-Tuffy
-Catalane – Invertebrate Heaven
-Mata Rocks
-Squid Shallows
-Soft Coral Gardens
-Beach
Contents:__________________________________________________
Master List
Reef Fish
Group – Angelfish – Pomacanthidae
1. Queen angelfish, Holacanthus cilaris local Belize name “Pangler”
2. French angelfish, Pomacanthus paru
3. Gray angelfish, Pomacanthus arcuatus
4. Rock Beauty, Holacanthus tricolor
Group – Butterfylfishes – Chaetodontidae
1. Banded butterfly, Chaetodon striatus
2. Foureye butterfly, Chaetodon capistratus
3. Spotfin butterfly, Chaetodon ocellatus
Group – Surgeonfishes – Acanthuridae -Protected by law from fishing
1. Blue tang, Acanthurus coeruleus
2. Ocean surgeonfish Acanthurus bahianus
3. Doctorfish Acanthurus chirurgus
Group – Jacks – Carangidae
1. Bar jack, Caranx ruber
2. Horse-eye jack, Caranx latus
3. African pompano *, Alectis cilaris local Belize name “Pompas criole”
4. Blue Runner, Caranx crysos (esp. Soft Coral Garden)
5. Big Eye Scad, * Selar crumenophthalmus esp at Soft Coral Garden Belize Name: Google Eye Jack
6. Cero, Scomberomorus regalis * esp at Coral Garden Back Reef Belize Name: King Fish
Group – Needlefish – Belonidae
1. Flat needlefish, Ablennes hians Belize name: Long Guard
2. Houndfish, Tylosurus crocodilus
Group – Flyingfishes/halfbeaks – Exocoetidae
1. Ballyhoo, Hemiramphus brasilensis
Group – Barracudas – Sphyraenidae
1. Great barracuda, Sphyraena barracuda
2. Southern Sennet, Sphyraena picudilla (esp. Soft coral Garden)
Group – Bonefishes – Albulidae
1. Bonefish, Albula vulpes – Protected by law from commercial fishing and trade. Local Belize name: Macabi
2. Ladyfish, Elops saurus
Group – Mullet – Mugildae
1. White Mullet, Mugil curema
Group – Tarpons – Elopidae
1. Tarpon, Megalops atlanticus
Group – Chubs – Kyphosidae
1. Bermuda chub, Kyphosus sectatrix
Group – spadefishes – Ephippidae
1. Atlantic spadefish, Chaetodipterus faber
Group – Grunts – Haemulidae
1. French grunt, Haemulon flavolineatum
2. Bluestriped grunt, Haemulon sciurus
3. White grunt, Haemulon plumieri
4. Porkfish, Anisotremus virginicus local Belize name “Spanish Girl”
5. Caesar grunt, Haemulon carbonarium
6. Spanish grunt, Haemulon macrostomum
7. Small mouth grunt, Haemulon chrysargyreum
8. Tomtate, Haemulon aurolineatum
9. Cottonwick, Haemulon melanurum
10. Sailors Choice, Haemulon parra
11. White Margate, Haemulon album
12. Black Margate, Anisotremus surinamensis
Group – Snappers – Lutjanidae
1. Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis
2. Gray snapper. Lutjanus griseus local Belize name “Black Snapper”
3. Dog snapper, Lutjanus jocu
4. Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus
5. Schoolmaster, Lutjanus apodus
6. Cubera Snapper, Lutjanus cyanopterus
7. Mahogany Snapper, Lutjanus mahogoni
Group – Damselfish – Pomacentridae
1. Dusky damselfish, Stegastes fuscus
2. Threespot damselfish, Stegastes planifrons
3. Beaugregory, Stegastes leucostictus
4. Bicolor damselfish, Stegastes partitus
5. Yellowtail damselfish, Microspathodon chrysurus
6. Sergeant major, Abudefduf saxatilis
7. Blue chromis, Chromis cyanea
Group – Family – Albulidae
1. Bonefish, Albula vulpes
2. Ladyfish, Elops saurus (esp. Soft Coral Garden)
Group – Hamlets – Serranidae
1. Back Hamlet, Hypoplectrus nigricans
2. Indigo hamlet, Hypoplectrus indigo
Group – Groupers – Serranidae
1. Nassau grouper,Epinephelus striatus
2. Graysby, Epinephelus cruentatus
3. Red hind, Epinephelus guttatus
4. Black grouper Mycteropera bonaci
5. Tiger grouper, Mycteroperca tigris
6. Harlequin Bass, Serranus tigrinus
7. Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara
8. Greater soapfish Rypticus saponaceus *
Group – Basslets – Grammatidae
1. Fairy basslet, Gramma loreto
Group – Parrotfish – Scaridae – Protected by law from fishing
1. Blue parrotfish*, Scarus coeruleus
2. Midnight parrotfish, Scarus coelestinus local Belize name “Blue Tumbler”
3. Queen parrotfish, Scarus vetula
4. Stoplight parrotfish, Sparisoma viride
5. Princess parrotfish, Scarus taeniopterus
6. Striped parrotfish, Scarus croicensis (more common than 5)
7. Rainbow parrotfish, Scarus guacamaia
8. Yellowtail parrotfish, Sparisoma rubripinne
9. Redband parrotfish, Sparisoma aurofrenatum
10. Redtail parrotfish, Sparisoma chrysopterum
11. Yellowtail parrotfish (Redfin), Sparisoma rubripinne
12. Bucktooth parrotfish, Sparisoma radians
Group – Hogfishes & Wrasses – Labridae
1. Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus
2. Spanish hogfish, Bodianus rufus
3. Yellowhead wrasse, Halichoeres garnoti
4. Bluehead wrasse, Thalassoma bifasciatum
5. Slippery dick, Halichores bivittatus
6. Clown wrasse, Halichoeres maculipinna
7. Rainbow wrasse, Halichoeres pictus
8. Black ear wrasse, Halichoeres poeyi
9. Creole wrasse, Clepticus parrae
10. Puddingwife, Halichoeres radiatus
11. Criole wrasse, Clepticus parrae (outside reef only)
Group – Squirrelfishes – Holocentridae
1. Squirrelfish, Holocentrus adscensionis, local Belize name Welchman
2. Longspine squirrelfish, Holocentrus rufus
3. Dusky squirrelfish, Holocentrus vexillarius
Group – Gobies – Gobiidae
1. Neon goby, Gobiosoma oceanops
2. Cleaning goby
3. Masked goby, Coryphopterus personatus esp. at Mexico Rocks
Group – Lefteye flounders – Bothidae
1. Peacock flounder, Bothus lunatus
Group – Batfishes – Ogcocephalidae
1. Shortnose batfish, Ogcocephalus nasutus
Group – Trumpetfishes – Aulostomidae
1. Trumpetfish, Aulostomus maculatus
Group – Tilefishes – Malacanthidae
1. Sand tilefish, Malacanthus plumieri
Lizardfish – Synodontidae
Sand Diver, Synodus intermedius
Group – Pufferfishes – Tetraodontidae
1. Checkered puffer, Sphoeroides testudineus
2. Bridled burrfish, Chilomycterus antennatus
3. Web burrfish, Chilomycterus antillarum
4. Porcupinefish, Diodon hystrix
5. Sharp nose puffer, Canthigaster rostrata
6. Bandtail Puffer, Sphoeroides spengleri
Group – Boxfishes – Ostraciidae
1. Smooth Trunkfish, Lactophrys triqueter
2. Spotted trunkfish
Group – Triggerfish – Balistidae
1. Queen triggerfish, Balistes vetula local Belize name “Old Wife”
2. Black Durgon
Group – Toadfish – Batrachoididae
1. Whitelined Toadfish, Sanopus greenfieldorum
Group – Filefishes – Monacanthidae
1. Scrawled filefish
Group – Goatfishes – Mullidae
1. Spotted goatfish, Pseudupeneus maculatus
2. Yellow goatfish
Group – Morays – Muraenidae
1. Green moray, Gymnothorax funebris
2. Spotted moray
3. Chain Moray
4. Purple lipped moray
Subclass- Elasmobranchii
Group – Carpet sharks – Rhincodontidae
Common Name: Nurse Shark
Scientific Name: Ginglymostoma cirratum
The nurse shark is the most commonly seen shark in Caribbean waters and inhabits reefs, channels, sand flats, lagoons, and grass flats. Individuals can grow up to 14 ft. in length but are typically smaller. This species is nocturnal and can be found during the day sleeping amid the reef, often in a sheltered area such as under a branched coral. Nurse sharks feed on crustaceans, fish and stingrays and suck in their prey with a powerful inhalation. Though they are solitary hunters at night, during the day they can sometimes be spotted in groups of up to 40 individuals while resting. This species is very docile and easy to interact with, but a few unprovoked attacks have occurred.
Common Name: Smalltooth Sawfish * (rare)
Scientific Name: Pristis pectinata
Also known as the wide sawfish, this species inhabits tropical and subtropical waters around the world and is one of only a handful to enter rivers and freshwater systems. The smalltooth commonly reaches 18 ft. in length and is characterized by its saw-like rostrum which is lined not with actual teeth, but denticles. When hunting, it will swim into a school of fish and rapidly thrash its rostrum from side to side, stunning and impaling fish. It will also use its rostrum to dig and unearth prey such as crustaceans. The smalltooth sawfish is currently classified as critically endangered as it easily gets tangled in fishing nets and has a low rate of population growth. Locally, they are found in the shallows of the lagoon behind Ambergris Caye.
Common Name: Lemon Shark
Scientific Name: Negaprion brevirostris
Another resident of shallow tropical waters, the lemon shark has gained its name from its light grey to yellow colored skin. Like the nurse shark, lemon sharks are smaller individuals, often not exceeding 10 ft. in length. They frequent coral reefs, mangroves, lagoons and bays, but will not venture into freshwater systems. This species has a wide diet including fish, crustaceans, sea birds and occasionally smaller sharks such as the nurse shark. Similar to the nurse shark, lemons are non-aggressive and no deaths from an attack have ever been recorded.
Group – Requiem sharks – Carcharhinidae
1. Tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier
Order: Rajiformes (Rays)
1. Southern Stingray, Dasyatis americana2. Horseshoe stingray, Himantura schmardae (Werner, 1904)
3. Lesser Electric Ray, Narcine brasiliensis*
4. Yellow Stingray, Urolophus jamaicensis
Eaglerays – Myliobatidae
1. Spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari)
Toadfish – Batrachoididus
Whitelined Toadfish, Sanopus greenfieldorum *
Porifera (Sponges)
Brown Encrusting sponge, Cliona langae (most common sponge)
Gray Tube sponge, Callyspongia vaginalis (esp. Mexico Rocks)
Orange Rope Sponge, Aplysina fulva (esp. Mexico rocks)
Green Finger Sponge, Iotrochota birotulata (esp. Wreck at North Cut)
Fire Sponge, Tedania ignis (esp. Mangrove)
Loggerhead Sponge, Spheciospongia vesparium (esp. Coral Garden)
Black Ball Sponge, Ircinia strobilina (esp. Coral Garden)
Brown Variable Sponge, Anthosigmella varians (esp. Catalain and South Tuffy)
Cnidaria
Stony Corals – Scleractinia
Common Brain Coral, Diploria strigosa
Knobby Hill Brain Coral, Diploria clivosa
Depressed Brain Coral, Diploria labrinthiformis
Groved Brain Coral, Copophyllia natans
Maze Coral, Meandrina meanrites
Rose Coral, Manicinia areolata
Elkhorn Coral, Acropora palmata
Staghorn Coral, Acropora cervicornis
Boulder Coral, Montastrea annularis
Lobbed boulder coral, Montastrea faviolata
Large cup boulder coral, Montastrea cavernosa
Pillar coral, Dendrogyra cylindrus
Flower coral, Eusimilia fastigiana
Finger coral, Porities porities
Mustard Hill coral, Porities astreoides
Massive starlet coral, Siderastrea siderea
Minimal starlet Coral, Siderastea radians
Stokes starlet coral, Dichocoenia stokesii
Thin Lettuce Leaf coral, Agaricia tenuifolia
Thick Lettuce Leaf Coral, Agaricia agaricites
Cactus coral, Isophyllia sinuosa
Rough Star coral, Isophyllastrea rigida
Golf Ball coral, Favia fragum
Spiny Flower coral, Mussa angulosa (at Hol Chan near cave)
Zooxanthellae
Symbiodinium minutum sp. nov. and S. psygmophilum sp. nov. (dinophyceae), (See blog)
Cyanobacterium:
Roseofilum reptotaenium (“creeping band of red filaments”). Formerly known as Black Band disease, Phormidium
Annelida:
Spaghetti worm, Eupolymnia crassicornis
Fireworm, Hermodice carunculata
Magnificent feather duster, Sabellastarte magnifica
Split Crown Feather Duster, Anamobaea orstedii
Yellow Fanworm, Nataulax occidentalis
Social Feather Duster, Bispira brunnea
Variegated Feather Duster, Bispira variegata (esp. Catalain)
Christmas Tree Worm, Spirobranchus giganteus
Horseshoe Fanworm, Pomatostegus stellatus
Spaghetti Worm, Eupolmnis crassicornis
Southern Lugworm, Arenicola cristata
Sponge worm, Haplosyllis sp.
Threadworm, Odontosyllis enopla
Mollusca
Penshell, Pinna carnea
Sunrise Tellin, Tellina radiata
Atlantic Wing Oyster, Pteria colymbus
Rough Fileclam, Lima scabra
Spotted Sea Hare, Aplysia parvula
Ragged Sea Hare, Aplysia dactylomela
Slimy Doris, Dendrodoris krebsii (Mexico Rocks)
Lettuce Sea Slug, Tridachia crispata
Flamingo Tongue, Cyphoma gibbosum
Atlantic Deer Cowrie, Cypraea cervus
Measled Cowrie, Cypraea zebra
West Indian Starsnail, Lithopoma tectum
Stocky Cerith, Cerithium litteratum
Queen Conch, Strombus gigas
Milk Conch, Strombus costatus
Hawkwing Conch, Strombus raninus
Florida Fighting Conch, Strombus alatus, local Belize name Mud Conch
Tulip Snail, Fasciolaria tulipa
Trumpet Triton, Charonia variegata
Chocolate – lined Topsnail, Calliostoma jauanicum
Vase Snail, Vasum sp.
Caribbean Reef Squid, Sepioteuthis sepioidea
Arrow Squid, Doryteuthis plei
Common Octopus, Octopus vulgaris
White spotted Octopus, Octopus macropus
Caribbean Reef Octopus, Octopus briareus
Arthropoda
Spiny Lobster, Panulirus argus
White spotted spiny Lobster, Panulirus guttatus
Spanish Loster, Scyllarides aequinoctialis
Giant hermit Crab, Petrochirus diogenes
Speckled Crab Arenaeus cricrarius
Gall Crab
Giant Mithrax, Mithrax spinosissimus
Coral Crab, Carpilius corallinus
Ghost Shrimp, Coralianassa longiventris
Echinodermata
Red Rock Urchin, Echinometra lucunter lucunter
Pencil Urchin, Eucidaris tribuloides
Donkey Dung Sea Cucumber Holothuria mexicana
Holothuria arenicola small found by Jerry
Tiger’s tail sea cucumber
Beaded Sea Cucumber
Five tooth Sea Cucumber
Sea Turtles
Common Name: Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Scientific Name: Caretta caretta
The largest of the hard-shelled sea turtles, loggerheads are found globally and spend most of their lives in the open ocean or in shallow coastal waters. They feed mostly on bottom dwelling invertebrates but have the largest prey list of all the sea turtles, including starfish, fish, urchins, anemones, jellyfish, hatchling turtles, and many other items. Loggerheads are mostly active during the day and spend up to 85% of their day submerged as they are capable of four hour breath holds. Locally, a large male loggerhead is spotted at Turtle Rock Island feasting on conch remains thrown overboard by a local conch fisherman.
Common Name: Green Sea Turtle
Scientific Name: Chelonia mydas
Found in tropical and subtropical waters around the globe, the green sea turtle is named for the green fat found beneath their carapace. They can be easily identified by the starburst pattern found on each of their scutes. Unlike the loggerhead, greens are primarily herbivores and are often seen grazing in shallow lagoons on various types of sea grass. Like other sea turtle species, juvenile greens typically spend their years in the open ocean and only return to shallow, coastal waters once they reach sexual maturity. Greens are classified as endangered like loggerheads, as fishing, habitat loss and predation have taken a severe toll on global populations. Locally, several greens are often spotted at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, feeding on turtle grass.
Common Name: Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Scientific Name: Eretmochelys imbricata
The hawksbill is aptly named for its beak-like mouth which it uses to scrape sponges off the reef. Unlike other sea turtles, its scutes are imbricated, or overlap, and do not form a smooth carapace. Based on its prey location, hawksbills are typically seen in shallow lagoons and over reefs, feeding. Aside from sponges, they also feed on jellyfish and anemones and close their eyes while feeding on jellies to avoid getting stung. The hawksbill is currently listed as critically endangered as it is prized for its unique carapace in several Asian countries and has been overhunted in the past. Locally, sightings occur in or over reefs where hawksbills can be seen grazing.
Manatee
Common Name: West Indian Manatee
Scientific Name: Trichechus manatus
The largest surviving member of the order Sirenia, the West Indian manatee can grow over 4 meters in length and weigh over 3,000 lbs. Commonly found in shallow coastal waters, this species is quite tolerant to changes in temperature and salinity and have even been spotted as far north as New York City, and have been known to enter freshwater rivers and estuaries. The West Indian manatee is currently classified as vulnerable as a result of past over-hunting, habitat loss, and boat strikes. Locally, a male manatee is commonly found in a channel near Caye Caulker’s back reef. Manatees should never be touched and like turtles, should not be approached while they are surfacing for air, or they will be scared off and retreat. Other sightings: Hol Chan, Turtle Rock Island.
Bottlenose Dolphins
Reef list
Mangrove list
1. Upside down jelly fish
2. Orange colonial tunicate, Ecteinascidia turbinata / drug: Trabectedin (Yondelis)
3. Bat fish, Ogocephalus nasutus
4 Fire sponge, Tedania ignis
5. Orangespotted Goby, Nes longus Symbiont with burrowing shrimp.
Night Snorkel list
Playfull Squid , Octopus, sleeping Parrotfish, Basket Star, Lobster, Giant Mithrax, Coral Crab, Cardinal Fish, Green Moray Eel, Portunid Crab, Web Burfish, Baloonfish, light swarming Redear Sardine, light attracted Needle Fish, feeding coral polyps, seasonal bioluminescent Thread Worms, seasonal bioluminescent ostracods, nocturnal color pattern changes (e.g.Blue Tang), nocturnal behavior changes (e.g. Grunt schooling).
Spanish Loster, Scyllarides aequinoctialis
Caribbean Reef Squid, Sepioteuthis sepioidea
The most commonly sighted squid in the Caribbean, the reef squid is commonly seen hovering over reefs and turtle grass beds. Reef squid range between 6 in. and 12 in. in length and often remain a safe distance from the surface to avoid predation by birds. Individuals can rapidly change colors and have been shown to communicate by rapidly changing color, shape and texture. Reef squid are generally wary and retreat if threatened or approached rapidly. Here at TREC, if squid are encountered during a snorkel, two methods are employed to keep them close. During the day, the group forms a circle around the squid, trapping the individual such that everyone can see and observe. At night, squid can actually be put into a trance by shining an underwater flashlight on them, thus rendering them fairly immobile and curious.
Caribbean Reef Octopus, Octopus briareus
Belize name “Sea Cat”
The Caribbean reef octopus is only encountered at night and is never seen during the day. It inhabits recesses and cavities within the reef during the day and leaves the safety of its lair at night to feed. Individuals are easily identified as they are pale to intense iridescent blue/green in color and typically spread out their limbs over the substrate they are on. The reef octopus feeds on crabs, shrimp, lobster and occasionally fish. Burrows can often be identified by the pile of crab carapaces at the entrance. Individuals are not social and live a solitary life. Here at TREC, the reef octopus is commonly seen during the night snorkel and is often picked up and observed by the group, giving everyone a chance to feel its suckers.
Common Octopus, Octopus vulgaris
This species is the only octopus that may be encountered during the day snorkels and inhabit reefs, rubble, and sea grass beds. A master of camouflage, the common octopus can change body color, texture, and shape to blend in with its surroundings and avoid potential predators. Like the reef octopus, lairs can be spotted by the pile of shells and debris at the entrance. Individuals use their powerful beaks to punch a hole in the shell of their prey before sucking out the fleshy contents.
White spotted octopus, Octopus macropus, handle-able at night
Bioluminescence
During the night snorkel, a number of bioluminescent creatures can be observed. The most common are tiny bioluminescent dinoflagellates, which emit bright blue flashes in response to movement. They are brightest after several hours of darkness and glow only at night. During the night snorkel, they can be stirred simply by treading water while flashlights are off, and tiny blue flashes can be seen surrounding group members. Another bioluminescent critter commonly seen in the Caribbean is the threadworm, Odontosyllis enopla. Observed as a glowing halo near the surface, the glow is actually a cloud of bioluminescent mucus release by the female to attract males. The female can often be observed at the center of the cloud, visible as a tiny, glowing crescent. Lastly, bioluminescent ostracods can be spotted occasionally attached to rocks or the reef with their sequenced glow patterns. Males attach to the hard surface and in flashing, attract females to mate with. Often referred to as “String of Pearls” this can be a dazzling spectacle.
Night Beach Seine list
Checkered Pufferfish (Sphoeroides testudines)
Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)
Speckled Crab Arenaeus cribrarius
Needlefish (Ablennes hians)
Silversides (Menidia menidia)
Blue-Striped Grunt (Haemulon sciurus)
Spot-fin Mojarra (Eucinostomus argenteus)
Schoolmaster Snapper (Lutjanus apodus)
Peacock Flounder (Bothus lunatus)
Grass Shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio)
Hermit Crab (Coenobita clypeatus)
Sharpnose Pufferfish (Canthigaster rostrata)
Spiny Reef Lobster (Panulirus argus)
Sergeant Major (Abudefduf saxatilis)
Atlantic Spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber)
Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda)
Lined Seahorse (Hippocampus erectus)
Pale Head Blenny (Labrisomus gobio)
Gold Spotted Snake eel (Myrichthys ocellatus)
Yellow spotted Stingray (Urolophus jamaicensis)
French Grunt (Haemulon flavolineatum)
Atlantic Tripletail (Lobotes surinamensis)
Houndfish (Tylosurus crocodilus)
Spotted Sea Hare (Aplysia dactylomela)
Big-eye Scad (Selar crumenophthalmus)
Bucktooth Parrotfish (Sparisoma radians)
Redband Parrotfish (Sparisoma aurofrenatum)
Decorator Crab (Cyclocoeloma tuberculata)
Spotted Scorpionfish (Scorpaena plumieri)
Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum)
Green Moray (Gymnothorax funebris)
Sand Drum (Umbrina coroides)
Triple fin (Lobotes surinamensis)
Threadfin (Polydactylus sp.)
Site specific lists
–TREC grounds (and above) – Green iguana, Boa constictor, garter snake, Giant land crab, Hermit crabs, Cat birds, Tree frogs, scorpions, December 18, 2013 – Large Puma concolor
Birds
Green Parrot
Bare-Throated Tiger Heron Tigrisma mexicanum
Scarlet tanager
Hooded oreale
Orchard oreale
Black & white warbler
Great-tailed grackle
Tropical Mockingbird
Black catbird
Yucatan Jay
Great Kiskadee
Lineated Woodpecker
Pale-billed woodpecker
Cinnamon Hummingbird
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird
Great Horned Owl
Common Ground Dove
White winged Dove, Zenaida asiatica
Caribbean Dove
White-Crowned Pigeon Columba leucocephala sighting April 2,2016, June 4, 2017
Plain Chachalaca*
Common black Hawk
Common Pauraque, Nyctidromus albicollis type of nightjar
Mammalia
Puma, Puma concolor (Felis concolor majensis)
ARTHROPODA
Great Land Crab (or Duppy) Cardisoma guanhumi
Common Land Hermit Crab, Coenobita clypeatus
Scorpion
Pink toed Taurantula
Plants:
Common Name: Sea Grape/ Bay Grape
Scientific Name: Coccoloba uvifera
The Sea Grape is a species of flowering plant belonging to the buckwheat family. It is typically viewed as a sprawling evergreen or small tree of about 6-7 ft, but can exceed 30 ft in height in some cases. The tree is characterized by large, round, leathery leaves which are about 7 in. in diameter. The primary vein of each leaf is red in color and leaves redden as they age. This species produces edible fruit clusters which become purplish-red when ripe. This particular individual is valued in tropical locations and on beachfront residences as it is highly tolerant of salt spray and salty soils. The tree has a number of both practical and medicinal uses. The fruits are edible raw and are often made into a jelly. The wood is used in construction of furniture and in the West Indies is boiled to produce a red dye. Medicinally, gum from the bark is used to treat throat ailments and the roots are used in combating dysentery.
Common Name: Tropical Almond/ Sea Almond
Scientific Name: Terminalia catappa
Topical Almonds are allied with white mangrove in the family Combretaceae and are not related to commercial almonds. The nut or kernel is generally eaten raw tastes like almonds. It has been shown to have a sedative or aphrodisiac effect in test animals and nut extracts have promise in treating diabetes.
A member of the leadwood family, the tropical almond is characterized by its pagoda shape which results from a single stem that does not branch until reaching a significant height. The tree commonly reaches over 100 ft in height and has large leaves which average almost 10 in. long and 5 in. wide. When in bloom, the tree has small, white flowers and produces corky, light fruit. The fruit become reddish-purple when ripe and contain an inner nut which is edible and tastes similar to familiar almonds. During the dry season, leaves of the tree turn red, gold or copper, and eventually fall from the tree. Aside from the edible fruit and nuts, the tree has multiple other uses and numerous traditional medicinal functions. The solid, highly water-resistant wood is used in canoe-making in Polynesia, and its leaves are often employed by tropical fish breeders to keep fish such as betta healthy and to yield stronger scales. The leaves, bark, and fruit are used in treating dysentery in southeast Asia, while the fruit and bark are used to treat coughs in Samoa and asthma in Mexico. In India, the fruits are used in treating headaches, while in Mexico, they combat nausea. Through consumption or boiling, the leaves are used in fighting intestinal parasites in the Philippines and for treating eye problems and wounds in Samoa. Finally, the juice of the leaves is used in India and Pakistan for treating scabies, leprosy and other skin diseases.
Common Name: Plantain/ Banana
Scientific Name: Musa paradisiaca
Commonly known as the “cooking banana,” the plantain is a common crop in the tropics. The stem grows anywhere from 10-30 ft. in height and has large leaves which can exceed 6 ft. in length on occasion. Each plant yields fruit only once in its lifecycle, so after fruit is collected, the tree is typically cut and replanted from a piece of the stem. Fruit bundles are large and typically average 25 lbs. in weight. The large leaves are commonly used in wrapping as in the case of meats, which are wrapped in the leaves while cooking to preserve flavor. The flowers are also edible and unripe fruits are often dried and ground into flour. Plantains are used and prepared in several ways, but are prized above all for their nutritional value. They are a great source of energy and vitamins and have several other valuable qualities. Plantains and bananas are rich in iron and promote hemoglobin production, help fight anemia, and are also rich in fiber which prevents constipation. Similarly, the fruits contain a protein which the body converts to serotonin which treats depression, and are high in potassium which regulates heartbeat, brings oxygen to the brain and maintains water levels in the body. Lastly, the fruit are a good body-stabilizer and are useful at restoring body-chemical levels after smoking and help with hangovers.
Common Name: Ziricote
Scientific Name: Cordia dodecandra
This species of cordial is a member of the exotic hardwoods and is cherished above all for its extremely durable wood. The tree is easily identified by its bright, orange-red flowers which are funnel shaped and have numerous lobes. Edible fruits are also produced by the species, which are egg-shaped and yellow when mature. The dark, heavy, hard wood is used in furniture making and heavy construction and is also used to make guitars. Finally, the leaves, which are quite abrasive, are sometimes used as an alternative to sandpaper.
Common Name: Black Poisonwood
Scientific Name: Metopium brownei
Known to the Mayans as Che’Chen, this poisonwood resides in the cashew and sumac family Anacardiaceae. It is a medium-sized tree able to reach 50 ft. and can be identified by large, black, tar-like blotches where oozing sap has dried. Within the sap of the tree is Urushiol, an irritant which is also found in its close relatives, poison oak and poison sumac. For this reason, locals will often cut the tree down if they happen upon it, but this can have a negative impact on other species which rely upon the tree, as several bird species rely on the trees’ fruit as a food source. Because of the sap, the tree has few uses, but is commercially utilized for its hardwood for flooring and furniture.
Common Name: Gumbo Limbo
Scientific Name: Bursera simaruba
The gumbo is a small to medium-sized tree typically growing from 25-40 ft. in height. Individuals are easily identified by their shiny, dark red, peeling bark, which have earned them the nickname: the “tourist tree,” as their red, peeling bark resembles the skin of a freshly sunburned tourist. Gumbos are resistant to a wide range of conditions including salty soils, and are very wind-resistant and often survive hurricanes. Because of this resistance and their fast growth, they are often a popular choice for reforestation. The gumbo is often used to construct natural fences, as branches placed in the ground typically take root and grow. Similar to the black poisonwood, the fruits of these trees are a favorite among several species of bird, and are even relied upon for some long distance migrations. The gumbo has a number of human uses, but is valued most for its bark, which provides a natural antidote to the irritant found in the sap of the black poisonwood. Resin from the tree is used as glue, varnish, incense, and medicinally is used to treat gout. Extract taken from the leaves is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory, and the wood is often used for smaller items such as toothpicks, matches, crates and boxes.
Common Name: Coconut Palm
Scientific Name: Cocos nucifera
Recognized as the most economically important tree for millennia, the coconut palm is found in tropical locations around the globe. The coconut first received its name from sailors of Vasco de Gama, who, upon returning with it to Europe, compared its husk to that of a superstitious ghost/witch called “coco.” Individual palms can exceed 30m in height and are highly tolerant of salinity and thrive in sandy soils. They do, however, require high humidity and rainfall, which is why they do not grow in hot, dry locations such as the Mediterranean. Virtually every part of the tree can be used by humans in some manner; hence the coconut palm is cherished by tropical island nations. Coconut meat is a good source of minerals and the water is nutritious and mixes well with blood, which is why it was used during World War II in emergency transfusions. “Coir,” or the husk fibers, are used for stuffing mattresses in India, and as mats, brushes, or ropes, and are even burned to repel mosquitoes. Leaves are used globally as roof thatching and the trunks are used in the construction of bridges, canoes and furniture as they are salt-resistant. The greatest threat to the coconut palm is yellow leaf disease, or lethal yellowing, which is a phytoplasma disease that is spread by the plant hopper (Myndus crudus) and results in the death of the individual in 3 to 6 months.
Reptiles and Invertebrates:
Common Name: Green Iguana
Scientific Name: Iguana iguana
One of the more common species throughout South and Central America, the green iguana is a primarily arboreal species, spending the majority of its time in trees. Individuals tend to live near a body of water and often only come to the ground to forage. Adult males often exceed 4.5 ft. in length, and can actually contain a variety of colors-including red, pink, orange and even blue. Timid in the wild, the green iguana often dives into water and swims away if threatened and like other lizards, can regenerate tails that have been broken or bitten off. This species is primarily a herbivore, consuming leaves, fruits, flowers and shoots. At TREc, greens are typically seen in almond trees.
Common Name: Black Spiny-tailed Iguana
Scientific Name: Ctenosaura similis
Similar in size to the green iguana, black iguana males will commonly grow over 3-4 ft. in length and are easily identified by the long crest of spines which travels down the neck and along the back. This species is a great climber and fond of rocky or wooded habitats as they often scale trees and rock walls. Quite evasive, the spiny-tailed iguana is recorded as the fastest running lizard on earth and is adept at escaping potential threats. Primarily herbivores, individuals feed mostly on flowers and fruit, but will occasionally consume invertebrates.
Common Name: Brown/Striped Basilisk
Scientific Name: Basiliscus vittatus
The brown basilisk is found throughout Belize and Central America and averages less than 2.5 ft. in length. It has earned the nickname the “Jesus” or “Jesus Christ” lizard as it can run on water distances of up to 20m. Their water travel is made possible by large hind feet with skin flaps between their toes which increase their surface area when running. Because of this exceptional adaptation, basilisks are often spotted basking near water bodies. At TREC they are often seen running down the road on their hind legs, which is a fight-or-flight reaction.
Common Name: Slender Brown Scorpion
Scientific Name: Centruroides gracilis
Also known as the Florida bark scorpion, this species is dark brown to black in color and is typically found under bark, stones and debris both indoors and outdoors. The slender brown is the most common species of scorpion throughout Belize and has a painful sting, but is not lethal. Stings are a defensive reflex and cause a hot, burning sensation that typically disappears within hours. At TREC they are usually found beneath the building and deck. Always shake out gear before putting it on!
Tarantula
Only 9 species of tarantula occur in Belize. Most species are found only in the Cayo district, but the most common individual is the Mexican red-rump tarantula (Brachypelma vagans). As with most other species, the red-rump is docile and not to be feared as it is quite reclusive. The only troublesome attribute of this species and several others is that they are prone to releasing urticating hairs. Urticating hairs are barbed hairs which are kicked off at potential predators or aggressors which cause irritation if they land on the skin or in the eyes. At TREC they are generally found in the same areas as scorpions.
Stingless Honeybees
Records show that stingless honeybees have been native to Belize for thousands of years thanks to the cultivation efforts of the lowland Maya, who used the bees for honey and religious ceremonies. The two species cultured in Belize are Melipona beecheii and Melipona yucatanica. Local species are at great risk from habitat loss, pesticides, and introduction of the non-native Africanized honeybee, which produces more honey annually, and so, is being used more by beekeepers. Locally, Melipona can be found on the grounds at TREC. Though these bees do not sting, it is said that they can inflict a painful bite.
-Mexico Rocks – Sponges and squid are highlights.
1. Harlequin Pipefish, Micrognathus ensenadae
2. Sand Tilefish, Malacarithus plumieri
3. Masked Goby, Coryphopterus personatus
-Coral Garden
1. Indigo Hamlet, Hypoplectrus indigo
2. Black Hamlet, Hypoplectrus nigricans
-Hol Chan – regulars
1. Tarpon
2. Pompano
3. Midnight Parrot
4. Rainbow Parrot
5. Black Margate
6. White Margate
7. Black Grouper
8. Nassau Grouper
9. Tiger Grouper
10. Green Turtles
-Turtle Rock Island
Logger head turtles, Spotted Eagle Ray, Horseshoe Ray, Southern Stingray, Nurse Shark, Blue parrotfish
-Shark-ray Alley
1. Yeollowhead Jawfish, Opistognathus aurifrons
-Pillar Coral (site) Psuedo-nocturnal site based on crepuscular nature of pillar coral.
-Tuffy
1. Rose Coral, Manicina areolata
-Catalane Invertebrate Heaven (North Ambergris Caye) (90 species counted in one hour)
Stypopodium
Bubble algae
Pennicilus
Caulerpa
Ball algae
Halimeda
Dictyota
Thalassia
Padina
Brown encrusting sponge Cliona langae
Tan Cliona
Orange ice sponge
Orange rope sponge
Pipes of Pan Sponge
Fire Coral
Boulder Coral Orbacella annularis
Large cup boulder coral Orbacella cavernosa
Shallow water starlet coral Siderastrea sideria
Finger Coral Porites porites
Lavender finger coral
Mustard Hill coral Porites asteroidea
Brain Coral Pseudodiploria strigosa
Depressed Brain coral Diploria labrinthiformes
Golf Ball coral
Stokes starlet coral
Flower coral Eusimilia fastigiata
Lettuce leaf coral Agaricia
Sea Fan
Knobby Candelabra
Sea plume
Angular sea rod
Black Sea Rod
Corky Sea fingers
Giant Caribbean anemone Condylactus
Cork screw anemone
Stinging anemone
Split crown feather duster fan worm
Social feather duster fan worm
Christmas tree fan worm
Spaghetti worm
Fire worm
Lug worm
Spiny Lobster
Peterson cleaning shrimp
Banded Coral shrimp
Arrow crab
Mysid shrimp
Mantis shrimp
Ghost shimp
Hermit crab
Black long spinned urchin Diadema
Sea Egg
Red rock Urchin
Zoanthid – Palythoa
Oyster
clam
Horse conch
Queen conch
Mud conch
Milk Conch
Fighting conch
Hawks wing conch
Vase snail
Moon snail
Cowrie
Top snail
Cockle
Sunrise Telon
Octopus briarius
Reef squid
Lionfish
Bar Jack
Blue stripped grunt
French grunt
Tomtate
Yellow fin Mojorra
Sharp nose puffer
Queen Angelfish
Schoolmaster snapper
Sargent Major
Stoplight Parrot fish
Stripped Parrot fish
Blue head Wrasse
Spotfin Butterfly fish
Banded Butterfly fish
Four eye Butterfly fish
Yellow head Jaw fish
Yellow head wrasse
Beaugregory
Dusky Damsel
Yellow tail snapper
Blue Tang
Surgeon fish
Porgy
Slippery Dick
Orange spotted gobie
Rock beauty
Lizard fish
Flounder
BEACH
Sea Beans
Sea Heart Entada gigas
Horse Eye Bean Mucuna sloane
Coconut Cocos nucifera
Tropical Almonds Terminalia catappa