Abstract

As Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) continues to be identified throughout the Wider Caribbean Region (WCR), the efforts of Florida’s SCTLD Response Caribbean Cooperation Team, MPAConnect and the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment program have increased in order to build the capacity of regional stakeholders who are either actively responding to SCTLD in their waters or preparing for its possible detection. Since 2020, capacity building efforts have included the: • hosting of monthly status-update meetings of regional organizations working to address SCTLD, with bi-monthly meetings engaging regional managers and practitioners; • coordination of capacity building learning exchanges and workshops; • facilitation of online training on disease identification, monitoring, interventions and response planning; • establishment of a small grants program to support the development and implementation of SCTLD intervention and action plans; • coordination of networking opportunities that build connections and share practical experiences amongst resource managers, field practitioners and scientists; and the • development of SCTLD resource materials, including: o upgrades to web-based data tools; o survey data sheets; o planning tools for SCTLD monitoring and response; o outreach materials on SCTLD detection; o fact sheets on monitoring and the use of antibiotics to treat SCTLD; and o instructional videos on SCTLD prevention, surveillance and treatment. Collaborations fostered amongst regional field practitioners have improved their ability to respond to the disease and educate/engage stakeholders. Joint ventures are currently being developed with researchers investigating the causes of SCTLD and testing new treatment methods. These efforts help support effective monitoring and treatment practices throughout the WCR.

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