Tobago's coral reefs brace for imminent threat of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease

• The Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) has identified Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) as an imminent, high-stakes threat to Tobago's coral reefs.
• SCTLD is a rapidly moving, highly transmissible pathogen that kills coral in weeks to months, affecting over 20 of the 45 Caribbean stony coral species.
• Tobago’s reefs, valued at $120–160 million annually, are at high risk due to the presence of susceptible species like the giant brain coral.
• Preventive measures now include public awareness, gear sanitation for divers, and the use of the seaiTT app for reporting.

Understanding SCTLD

• First identified in Florida in 2014, the disease has spread throughout the Caribbean to territories including Jamaica, The Bahamas, and nearby Grenada.
• Transmission occurs via direct contact, water currents, and ballast water, making ports primary infection sites.
• Infection is characterized by lesions on coral tissue that expand rapidly.
• Research indicates that in heavily impacted areas, certain species populations have declined to less than three percent of their original size.

Mitigation and Preparedness

• The IMA is currently managing a one-year project funded by the Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife Regional Activity Centre (SPAW RAC) to bolster resilience.
• In January 2025, ecologists received training from the Perry Institute of Marine Science (PIMS) on identifying SCTLD and administering antibiotic treatments.
• Conservation efforts include:
  • Educating the public on recognizing symptoms via the seaiTT app.
  • Advising divers and snorkellers to avoid touching corals to prevent disease transmission.
  • Encouraging the disinfection of diving gear and boat bilge water.
  • Exploring the use of antibiotics and land-based facilities for the recovery of infected coral.