Bermuda and the Sargasso Sea

Abstract Bermuda and its coral reefs are surrounded by the Sargasso Sea. Within Bermuda’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) are several isolated seamounts and the extensive Muir Seamount range, which was intensively surveyed in 2003. Ongoing time series studies near Bermuda (Hydrostation S, BATS) continue to track changes in key biological, biogeochemical, and physical oceanographic processes. A recent effort (2011–14) to establish a marine protected area within the EEZ was discussed and deferred. The formation of the Sargasso Sea Commission led to the Hamilton Declaration in 2014 to support an international effort for the conservation of the Sargasso Sea and, to date, nine countries and territories are signatories. Bermuda’s proactive management of reef fisheries since 1990 has benefited most reef fishes and strong increases in parrotfish populations have occurred. Coral bleaching and disease incidence are low, and coral coverage is high and stable. Thus, Bermuda’s reefs appear to be healthy with a good short-term prognosis in the face of climate change and ocean acidification.