University of Belize Calabash Caye Field Station

As part of the University of Belize’s Bachelor’s program in Marine Biology, students are required to obtain both Open Water and Advanced Open Water scuba certifications to support their academic learning.

Over the past week, a group of students successfully completed their certifications under the guidance of the Field Station Manager and Dive Safety Officer, Josh Borland. This experience introduced them not only to recreational diving, but also to the fundamentals of scientific diving practices.

While the week presented its challenges, students described the experience as both rewarding and enjoyable.

Congratulations to all participants on this significant achievement 👏🌊

📸 Credit:
Lemar Baltazar
Alerts Awayo
Ethan Hererra
Fenisha Coc
Gabriellie Torres
Justin Brodhurst

Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting Bishop Martin High School (BMHS) for their Educational Biology Excursion.

BMHS, located in Orange Walk Town, is an inland community, making this an excellent opportunity for students to explore the connections between their environment and the Belize Barrier Reef. As we celebrated under the theme “Building Resilience from Ridge to Reef,” students gained a deeper understanding of how inland activities impact marine ecosystems.

Activities Included:

✅ Beach Cleanup
✅ Fish and Benthic Survey Training
✅ Nature Trail Exploration
✅ Coral Reef, Seagrass, and Mangrove Ecosystem Studies

Highlight: We were especially proud to have Anthony Lizama, our Marine Biologist who is a graduate of Bishop Martin High School, as part of this experience.

We extend our gratitude to BMHS for joining us in fostering environmental awareness and stewardship!

📸: Judith Rivas

The University of Belize’s BIOL4402 Fish Biology and Fisheries course students recently conducted fieldwork at Calabash Field Station, providing them with hands-on experience in data collection. This immersive opportunity allows students to understand the significance of data collection in environmental research. As part of the program, participants gather various types of data to gain insights into different aspects of the environment.

Today, we celebrate Belize’s incredible ecosystems—from the lush tropical forests and winding rivers to the expansive savannas, thriving wetlands, vibrant coral reefs, and the open ocean. 🌳🐾🐦 Our country is a sanctuary for diverse species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

At UB ERI and Calabash Caye Field Station we are committed to research, conservation, and education to protect Belize’s wildlife and ensure that these ecosystems remain vibrant for generations to come. Let’s continue to work together to safeguard the natural beauty and biodiversity of our amazing home. 💙

🌟 Belize’s wildlife needs your voice! How are you celebrating World Wildlife Day today? Share with us below! 🐠🦜🐆

November is Jaguar Awareness Month in Belize! 🐆

Jaguars are more than just a symbol of strength and beauty—they are essential for maintaining balance in our ecosystems, controlling prey populations, and ensuring the health of Belize’s forests.

As apex predators, they play a critical role in biodiversity. Belize is proud to be home to the world’s first jaguar preserve, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, highlighting our commitment to their conservation.

Let’s work together to protect these incredible creatures and the habitats they depend on.

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Welcome to the Calabash Caye Field Station, located right here in Belize! Through the University of Belize and the Environmental Research Institute (ERI), we strive to advance marine conservation through hands-on research and education.

With our focus on fostering innovative scientific inquiry, our station provides a unique environment for researchers and students to explore aquatic ecosystems while contributing to vital environmental preservation efforts.

Follow along with us as we empower research for a more sustainable future!

Welcome to the Calabash Caye Field Station, located right here in Belize! Through the University of Belize and Environmental Research Institute (ERI), we strive to advance marine conservation through hands-on research and education. With our focus on fostering innovative scientific inquiry, our station provides a unique environment for researchers and students to explore aquatic ecosystems while contributing to vital environmental preservation efforts. Come join our mission as we work toward a more sustainable future, by empowering research! #marineconservation #marineresearch #coralreef #belize #sustainablefuture