Bahamas News
Remote Bahamian Waters Reveal Fragile Balance of Life
Scientists discover both resilience and alarming threats in Little Inagua
A brain coral affected by Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) in Little Inagua.
Aug 29, 2024 – NASSAU | A recent scientific expedition led by the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), with participation from The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), has uncovered critical insights into the health of coral reefs and seagrass beds surrounding Little Inagua, a secluded island in the southern Bahamas. The International SeaKeepers Society provided significant financial support and facilitated the expedition by connecting the team with the research vessel Awatea. The findings could play a crucial role in shaping future conservation strategies for one of the Caribbean’s most pristine marine ecosystems.
Last month’s mission was the first of its kind in over a decade and explored the island’s remote underwater habitats within the protected boundaries of the Little Inagua National Park. Spanning approximately 62,800 acres, it is The Bahamas’ third-largest national park and the largest uninhabited island in the region, remaining a beacon of untouched biodiversity. Yet, as the research team discovered, even these isolated waters are not immune to the pressures threatening marine life globally.
Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) is a rapidly spreading threat in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, affecting over 20 coral species. The disease causes corals to lose tissue quickly, often leading to death and endangering the reefs that protect coastlines and support fisheries.
“Our surveys revealed both hope and concern,” said Dr. Krista Sherman, Senior Scientist at PIMS and the expedition’s lead researcher. “While we found resilient coral colonies and thriving seagrass beds that support critical fisheries, we also documented signs of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) and bleaching that highlight the fragility of these ecosystems.”
Healthy seagrass beds in Little Inagua, providing essential habitat and supporting the rich biodiversity of the region’s marine life. Photo Credit: Haley Davis, SeaKeepers
“This park is one of 33 national parks managed by BNT, but it has been, for many years, a mystery. It’s remote, a bit secluded, and yet so beautiful,” said Lindy Knowles, Senior Science Officer at BNT. “We now have a better idea of how the habitats in the park are doing. Corals have been bombarded by SCTLD but the seagrass beds are intact, which shows that the entire system is relatively stable.”
Resilience Amidst Challenges: The Findings
The expedition’s team, comprising scientists from PIMS and BNT, surveyed 17 sites, including 13 coral reefs and four seagrass beds, some of which were last studied in 2011. The assessment revealed both promising and concerning results. Encouragingly, large colonies of mountainous star corals (Orbicella species) and boulder corals exhibited strong health, with no signs of disease or bleaching in certain locations. However, these bright spots were overshadowed by the widespread death of pillar corals (Dendrogyra cylindrus) and the death of historically robust stands of elkhorn (Acropora palmata) and staghorn corals (Acropora cervicornis) from bleaching.
Dr. Valeria Pizarro, senior scientist and coral expert at PIMS, emphasized the significance of these findings. “I was so happy to see juveniles of the smooth flower coral after SCTLD has killed most of these colonies in other parts of The Bahamas. Unfortunately, pillar coral, also known as the Caribbean unicorn, seems to be wiped out by SCTLD. We only saw standing dead colonies.”
Queen conch thriving in the seagrass beds of Little Inagua, a key species for both local fisheries and marine biodiversity, highlighting the importance of protecting these vital habitats. Photo Credit: Haley Davis, SeaKeepers
While the coral reefs showed mixed signs of health, the seagrass beds remain in good condition, providing essential habitat for commercially valuable species.
A Glimpse into Little Inagua’s Rich Marine Life
Despite the challenges facing the coral reefs, Little Inagua’s waters continue to support diverse marine life. The team reported sightings of turtles, stingrays, and various shark species, along with large predators like groupers, snappers, and barracudas. Dr. Krista Sherman, Senior Scientist at PIMS and the expedition’s lead researcher, commented: “I don’t remember ever seeing so many coneys and barracudas. It was also really cool to consistently see black durgon and sargassum triggerfish at some sites since they’re not typical in other parts of the country.”
Economically important species like the Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) and queen conch (Aliger gigas) were also observed in abundance, signaling potential long-term benefits for surrounding fisheries.
A Mission Made Possible Through Collaboration
The expedition’s success was the result of collaboration between multiple organizations, including PIMS, BNT, and SeaKeepers. The research team spent nearly two weeks aboard Awatea, a 63-foot sailing catamaran provided through SeaKeepers’ DISCOVERY Yacht Program. By utilizing this incredible resource, the expedition not only minimized its carbon footprint but also significantly reduced costs compared to chartering a vessel independently.
Haley Davis, Citizen Science Manager for SeaKeepers, expressed pride in supporting the mission: “We are excited about the opportunity to engage private vessels for important scientific work and we are more than happy to have used the Awatea as a low-carbon option for this two week liveaboard voyage.”
Lindy Knowles from the Bahamas National Trust conducting a survey of seagrass beds in the pristine waters of Little Inagua, as part of an expedition to assess and protect vital marine habitats. Photo Credit: Haley Davis, SeaKeepers
The expedition was funded through a grant to the Perry Institute for Marine Science from the Moore Bahamas Foundation, The Bahamas National Trust, and SeaKeepers.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Little Inagua’s Conservation
While it may be years before another comprehensive survey is conducted in this remote region, the data gathered will inform ongoing conservation efforts and provide a baseline for measuring future changes. Dr. Sherman said: “The data we collected over the course of this expedition will be analyzed in the coming months. This information will be important to help protect biodiversity and preserve the integrity and function of Little Inagua’s marine ecosystems.”
As The Bahamas faces escalating environmental challenges from climate change, coral disease, overfishing, and pollution, the insights from Little Inagua highlight both the vulnerabilities and strengths of its marine environments. The findings are a reminder that even in the most remote corners of the archipelago, urgent action is needed to preserve the country’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Link to expedition video footage: https://vimeo.com/995499389/cec871e358
Healthy boulder star corals thrive in the protected waters of Little Inagua, highlighting the resilience and beauty of these coral colonies despite environmental challenges.
About the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS)
For over 50 years, the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) has been at the forefront of marine research and conservation in The Bahamas and the Caribbean. Our mission is clear: leading through science, we innovate solutions, create opportunities, and inspire action to protect and restore ocean life for people and the planet. Our vision? Thriving seas and empowered communities.
From our beginnings as the most productive marine lab and field station in the world on Lee Stocking Island, we’ve evolved into a global, program-based non-profit tackling critical issues such as coral reef restoration, fisheries conservation, and the protection of mangrove and coastal ecosystems. Our holistic approach integrates cutting-edge scientific research with community education and engagement, as well as international collaboration to make lasting impacts on marine environments.
At PIMS, we’re more than just scientists—we’re educators, advocates, and partners. We empower local communities, provide pathways to conservation careers, and work tirelessly to protect and restore the ocean ecosystems that are vital to both biodiversity and human well-being.
About The Bahamas National Trust
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) was created by an Act of Parliament in 1959 to build and manage the national park system of The Bahamas. Possibly the only non-governmental organization in the world charged with such a responsibility, the BNT works daily to conserve and protect the natural resources of The Bahamas through science, stewardship, and education for present and future generations. There are currently 33 National Parks managed by the BNT, with more than 2 million acres of marine and terrestrial areas protected.
In stark contrast, bleached star coral colonies in Little Inagua reveal the severe toll environmental stressors can take on marine ecosystems.
About The International SeaKeepers Society
The International SeaKeepers Society is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that facilitates oceanographic research, conservation, and education through direct involvement with the yachting community. Providing educational resources and hands-on marine science experiences to students is the primary focus for ensuring the wellbeing of our planet. SeaKeepers enables the yachting community to take full advantage of their unique potential to advance marine sciences and raise awareness about global ocean issues.
Founded in Monaco in 1998, The International SeaKeepers Society has been supporting ocean conservation through direct involvement with the yachting community for more than twenty-five years. What started as a data collection program aboard select luxury yachts, has evolved to engage thousands of participants annually with at-sea and coastal programming. Today SeaKeepers’ mission is focused on the DISCOVERY Yacht Program which is comprised of Scientist-Led Expeditions, Citizen Science, Educational Outreach, and Community Engagement.
As a catalyst working with governments, scientists, institutions, and other marine organizations to further its mission, SeaKeepers supports sensible, achievable marine protection and restoration. Activities take place globally through the efforts of headquarters based in the United States with offices located on the east and west coast, and international representation in Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the South Pacific. For more information, please visit www.seakeepers.org.
Dr. Krista Sherman
Lindy Knowles
Dr. Valeria Pizarro
Haley Davis, Citizen Science Manager
Dr. Krista Sherman, Lindy Knowles, and Dr. Valeria Pizarro, key leaders of the expedition studying Little Inagua’s coral reefs and seagrass beds, working together to uncover vital insights for conservation.
Haley Davis, Citizen Science Manager at The International SeaKeepers Society, who facilitated the expedition by connecting the research team with the vessel Awatea.
Bahamas News
Federal Investigation into Florida Turnpike Tragedy that Killed Three Children of Bahamian Mother
NTSB examining roadside assistance driver’s actions, SUV speed and seat belt use after six people perish in fiery collision
ORLANDO, FLORIDA — October 29, 2026 — Federal investigators have joined the investigation into a horrific Florida Turnpike collision that claimed six lives, including all three children of a Bahamian mother, as questions intensify over what caused the deadly crash.
The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed that it is opening an investigation into the October 23 accident, which occurred around 9:31 p.m. near mile marker 252 in Orange County.
The agency’s involvement brings federal scrutiny to a tragedy that has devastated several families and prompted an extraordinary
outpouring of sympathy and disbelief.
Among those killed were siblings Charles Milton, Jakara Milton and Dalvena Green, the three adult children of Marshall Clarke-Milton and her husband, Charles Milton Sr.
The siblings were traveling with three others to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, reportedly on their first trip together.
They never arrived.
FEDERAL INVESTIGATORS EXAMINE WHAT WENT WRONG
The NTSB confirmed to FOX 35 Orlando that its investigation will examine the training and performance of the roadside assistance driver, the actions of the SUV driver, including speed, and whether the occupants were wearing seat belts.
The agency investigates serious transportation accidents to identify safety failures and recommend measures that could prevent similar tragedies.
Its involvement does not establish wrongdoing by either driver.
The Florida Highway Patrol is conducting a separate investigation into the collision.
According to the preliminary police account, a Road Ranger roadside assistance truck had been parked in the highway median before its driver received instructions to assist a disabled box truck on the opposite shoulder.
As the Road Ranger moved across the northbound lanes, it collided with a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse carrying six adults.
Both vehicles left the roadway and caught fire.
All six occupants of the SUV died at the scene. The Road Ranger driver survived with minor injuries.
MOTHER CHALLENGES EARLY ACCOUNT
Witnesses reportedly told investigators that the SUV was traveling at high speed without its headlights illuminated.
However, those observations have not been established as the definitive cause of the collision.
Clarke-Milton has challenged suggestions that her children or their companions were responsible, urging investigators to examine the evidence before reaching conclusions.
She wants investigators to establish the SUV’s actual speed and determine whether its headlights were operating.
The family’s concerns underscore the importance of the continuing investigations, particularly given the movement of the roadside assistance vehicle across active highway lanes.
ALL THREE CHILDREN LOST
For Clarke-Milton, the investigation unfolds against an almost incomprehensible personal tragedy.
She lost all three of her children simultaneously.
In an emotional interview with FOX 35 Orlando, the grieving mother described the terrible feeling that overcame her when she could not reach them.
“My heart sank,” she said, recalling the moment she feared her children were involved.
The siblings were among six people whose lives ended during what should have been an enjoyable evening together.
The other victims included Timothy Williams and Shawn Palmer. A sixth person’s identity had not been publicly confirmed in the latest reports reviewed.
The family’s heartbreak has resonated across The Bahamas and beyond, with expressions of sympathy accompanying calls for answers.
SEARCH FOR ANSWERS CONTINUES
The Florida Highway Patrol has indicated that a crash report is expected within approximately ten days of the accident.
The NTSB’s investigation will examine broader transportation safety concerns, including the operation of roadside assistance vehicles and the circumstances surrounding the collision.
For the grieving families, the findings cannot reverse the tragedy.
But they may establish what happened on that stretch of Florida’s Turnpike and whether anything could have prevented six people from losing their lives.
For one Bahamian mother, the loss is especially devastating.
Three children left for an evening of entertainment. Not one came home.
Nassau, The Bahamas, October 22, 2026 — The National Computer Incident Response Team of The Bahamas (CIRT-BS) has issued a cybersecurity advisory warning businesses, government institutions and other organisations about the growing threat posed by Akira ransomware, a cybercriminal operation capable of stealing sensitive information, disrupting networks and demanding ransom payments.
Active since March 2023, Akira operates through a Ransomware-as-a-Service model, with affiliates exploiting weaknesses in computer networks to gain unauthorised access.
Once inside, attackers can steal confidential data, disable recovery systems and encrypt files, preventing organisations from accessing critical information.
Particularly concerning is Akira’s use of double extortion, threatening to publish stolen information unless victims pay. Some attacks involve data theft without encryption.
The October 22 advisory identifies vulnerabilities involving Cisco and SonicWall firewalls, VPN services, Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol, Veeam backup systems and outdated Windows and Linux operating systems. VMware ESXi and Nutanix AHV environments are also potential targets.
Attackers may exploit unpatched software, stolen login credentials and inadequately secured remote-access applications, including AnyDesk and RustDesk.
Warning signs include unexpected administrator accounts, unusual remote logins, unauthorised software installations, suspicious backup activity, mass file changes and ransom notes.
CIRT-BS recommends immediate security updates, multifactor authentication, restricted remote access, stronger network monitoring and secure backups maintained separately from operational systems.
Organisations should also remove unnecessary internet exposure of remote desktop services, limit administrative privileges and regularly test backup restoration.
The advisory does not identify any confirmed Akira attack against a Bahamian organisation but highlights vulnerabilities that could expose institutions to serious financial and operational disruption.
Cybersecurity incidents can be reported to CIRT-BS at soc@cirt.bs or through its official website.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Bahamas’ Minister of Energy, Utilities and Aviation, The Honourable JoBeth Coleby-Davis, delivered an
electrifying address during the opening ceremony of the 2026 CARILEC Resilient/Renewable Energy Community (CAREC) Conference and Exhibition, being held October 18–22, 2026, at the British Colonial Hotel in Nassau, The Bahamas.
Under the theme “Empowering Progress: Strategic Policy and Planning for the Energy Transition,” the event draws more than 200 industry leaders, policymakers, regulators, and energy professionals committed to advancing practical strategies for sustainable and reliable Caribbean power systems through renewable energy and emerging technologies.
During her address, titled “The New Energy Era: Transforming Policy into Progress,” Minister Coleby-Davis reminded attendees that The Bahamas’ national motto, “Forward, Upward, Onward, Together,” aptly describes what the region’s energy transition demands.
“Empowering Progress speaks directly to our national motto. Not waiting for progress, but creating the conditions that allow progress to
happen. Meaningful progress, however, does not occur by accident. It requires vision, sound policy, strategic planning, strong institutions, and the determination to turn decisions into results,” said Minister Coleby-Davis.
Participants acknowledged that small island developing states share similar pressures, compounded by geographical challenges, small electricity markets, ageing infrastructure, geopolitical influences, and the growing threat of severe weather.
Tasked with ushering in a new energy era across the islands while addressing the challenges posed by The Bahamas’ unique archipelagic composition, Minister Coleby-Davis said, “Every island needs a different answer, but the same logic. As an archipelagic nation, we must provide electricity across many islands, each with its own demand and infrastructure needs. Our strategy, therefore, must be national in direction, but responsive to individual communities.”
Restating her Ministry’s three core messages—that energy is an economic and security priority, technology must be viewed as a tool to
support strong institutional leadership, and natural gas should be considered a bridge, not a destination—Minister Coleby-Davis reiterated that “progress must now be reflected in functioning infrastructure, effective institutions, and better electricity services: from policy commitments to coordinated implementation, and from fragmented investment decisions to long-term planning.”
Organised by CARILEC and co-hosted by Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) and Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC), the annual Conference and Exhibition brings together the Caribbean energy community to advance practical solutions to the region’s most pressing energy challenges and accelerate progress towards more resilient, reliable, and sustainable power systems.
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