Finding Bioindicators of Agricultural Contamination in the Mesoamerican Reef

In 2003, WWF proposed to measure the bio-accumulation and impact of agricultural effluents on marine species within the MAR. During the first half of 2004 representative samples of organisms potentially affected by agricultural effluents was evaluated , including one or more types of fish, mollusks,cnidarians, sponges, sea grass, algae, etc. Simultaneously, WWF begun to work with the main agricultural industries in the area (e.g. bananas, oranges, palm oil, sugar and shrimp) and relevant government agencies to identify the types and quantities of agrochemicals in use. While collecting this information and engaging with local producers, WWF identified current production practices that might be contributing to the overall agricultural effluent load that is affecting the reef. WWF has initiated work with both the shrimp aquaculture and citrus industries in Belize, and the major agro industries in Honduras to identify better management practices and reduce effluent impacts on the reef system. A MOU is under development with Dole and Ecotoxicologists experts workshop is planned for 2005. Through a collaborative process, WWF and the shrimp and citrus industries in Belize are working to identify environmentally friendly certification programs for which the industries might be candidates and to develop standards for a certification program if an acceptable pre-existing program is not identified.