The Caribbean Islands, an archipelago spanning approximately 4 million square kilometers, are a region of significant biodiversity. Recognized as one of the world’s 35 biodiversity hotspots, they feature a unique combination of geography and climate. The islands and surrounding waters encompass diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, dry forests, wetlands, and extensive coastal mangroves. These varied habitats contribute to a rich variety of animal life, with many species found nowhere else globally.
Life Beneath the Waves
The Caribbean’s marine and coastal environments are exceptionally rich, harboring a vast array of species. The region’s coral reefs, covering approximately 26,000 square kilometers, are vibrant ecosystems supporting a high concentration of marine biodiversity. These reefs, along with seagrass beds and mangroves, provide critical habitats for countless marine organisms.
Over 1,400 fish species inhabit Caribbean waters. These include colorful parrotfish, such as the stoplight and redband parrotfish, which graze on algae. Angelfish, like the vibrant queen angelfish, are also common. Other frequently sighted fish include barracuda, trumpetfish, blue tang, and various grunt species.
Thirty-two species of marine mammals, including whales and dolphins, are found in the Caribbean. Humpback whales migrate to these waters to breed and give birth, typically from late year to April. Dolphins, such as bottlenose and Atlantic spotted dolphins, are often seen in groups near coastal areas. The West Indian manatee, another large marine mammal, inhabits coastal habitats and estuaries, feeding on seagrass and algae.
Six of the world’s seven sea turtle species inhabit the Caribbean. These include the green, hawksbill, loggerhead, leatherback, Kemp’s ridley, and olive ridley turtles. Hawksbill turtles, often found around coral reefs, feed on sponges, while green turtles graze in seagrass meadows.
The Caribbean also hosts various sharks and rays. Nurse sharks are commonly found, often resting on the seafloor. Other species include the Caribbean reef shark and various stingrays. Marine invertebrates contribute to the ecosystem, including crustaceans like lobsters and crabs. Mollusks such as conch and octopus are also present, alongside various jellyfish species.
Reptiles and Amphibians of the Islands
The Caribbean Islands are home to a diverse array of reptiles and amphibians, with many species unique to the region. Approximately 82% of the more than 600 native reptile species are endemic. Lizards are particularly abundant, including various anoles, which are small, highly adaptable and common across the islands. Iguanas, such as the Cuban iguana, are larger inhabitants. Geckos, known for their nocturnal habits and adhesive toe pads, are also widespread.
Snakes, both non-venomous and venomous, are part of the Caribbean fauna. Non-venomous species include the Puerto Rican boa, which can grow up to 12 feet long, and the Jamaican boa, found on specific islands. Racers, such as the Antiguan racer and the red-bellied racer, are also present. Venomous snakes include the Saint Lucia pit viper and the Aruba rattlesnake. The Barbados threadsnake is the smallest snake species, typically less than a foot long.
American crocodiles inhabit some coastal areas and brackish waters across the Caribbean. These large reptiles are ambush predators, feeding on fish, birds, and mammals.
Amphibians in the Caribbean consist of frogs and toads, with all 200 native species endemic, often to single islands. The coquí frog, known for its distinct call, is a notable example from Puerto Rico. Some frogs, like Eleutherodactylus iberia from Cuba, are among the smallest globally, measuring less than one centimeter. The mountain chicken frog from Montserrat and Dominica is one of the largest, reaching up to 16 centimeters.
Mammals and Birds in Caribbean Habitats
Mammalian diversity in the Caribbean Islands, while less extensive than other groups, includes notable species with unique island adaptations. Bats represent the most diverse group of terrestrial mammals in the region, with over 11 species found on the Dutch Caribbean Islands alone. These bats play ecological roles as pollinators for columnar cacti and agave, and as insect controllers.
Hutias are characteristic rodents of the Caribbean. These moderately large, cavy-like rodents are primarily found on the Greater Antilles and the Bahamas. About 10 species exist, with most concentrated in Cuba. Hutias are known for their sturdy build and can climb trees, often nesting in tree trunks or rock crevices. Their diet typically consists of plant parts such as stems, roots, and leaves.
The Caribbean is a rich region for birdlife, hosting over 700 species, with 185 endemic to the region. Colorful parrots, such as the Hispaniolan parrot, are common residents. Hummingbirds, including the Antillean crested hummingbird and the green-throated carib, are also common, known for their rapid wingbeats and nectar feeding.
Pelicans and frigatebirds are large seabirds observed along the coasts and over open waters. Resident species like the pearly-eyed thrasher and the red-legged thrush are found across various islands. Endemic families, such as the todies with five species found only in the Greater Antilles, are unique to the region. Many bird species occupy specific habitats, ranging from coastal mangroves to dense forests.
The World of Caribbean Insects and Terrestrial Invertebrates
The Caribbean Islands are home to a diverse array of insects and other terrestrial invertebrates, playing varied ecological roles. Butterflies and moths contribute to the region’s insect diversity, with numerous species displaying vibrant colors and patterns. These insects are pollinators for many plant species.
Beetles, including ground beetles, scarabs, and longhorn beetles, inhabit the islands, functioning as decomposers, herbivores, or predators. Ants are widespread and abundant, forming complex colonies and contributing to soil aeration and seed dispersal. Spiders, such as orb-weavers and jumping spiders, are common predators, helping to control insect populations.
Scorpions are found in the Caribbean, typically in drier, rocky areas or under logs. Centipedes, with their segmented bodies and numerous legs, are nocturnal predators inhabiting moist environments. Land crabs, distinct from their marine counterparts, are terrestrial crustaceans that occupy coastal and inland areas, often playing a role in nutrient cycling by consuming decaying vegetation. These invertebrates are important to the ecological balance of the islands, serving as food sources for larger animals and participating in decomposition processes.