WEBVTT 00:00.633 --> 00:07.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 00:07.100 --> 00:09.800 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: In 2013, the Caribbean Sea 00:09.800 --> 00:12.600 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% gave up an extraordinary secret. 00:12.600 --> 00:16.300 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% It was a vast, pristine coral reef 00:16.300 --> 00:20.066 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% rising up from the Caribbean's deepest waters. 00:20.066 --> 00:24.133 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% It was the discovery of a whole new world. 00:24.133 --> 00:26.533 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% PETERSEN: It's just humongous. 00:26.533 --> 00:31.433 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% It's like a medieval fortress, like big and robust. 00:31.433 --> 00:33.666 align:left position:42.5% line:83% size:47.5% HEYMAN: I have never seen any place 00:33.666 --> 00:36.133 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% with the kind of live coral cover, 00:36.133 --> 00:41.500 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% the density of fish. It was so magic. 00:41.500 --> 00:43.600 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% NARRATOR: But once discovered, 00:43.600 --> 00:48.000 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% the challenge was how to keep this underwater Eden safe 00:48.000 --> 00:50.066 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% and how to learn from it. 00:50.066 --> 00:52.466 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% HEYMAN: I realized we needed to research it, 00:52.466 --> 00:54.500 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% learn more about it, understand it better. 00:54.500 --> 00:56.800 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% But we needed to keep it quiet. 00:56.800 --> 01:01.233 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% NARRATOR: And so began an undercover scientific adventure, 01:01.233 --> 01:06.433 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% a dive into a living treasure whose secrets may hold the keys 01:06.433 --> 01:10.000 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% to saving many other reefs in trouble. 01:10.000 --> 01:20.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 01:20.000 --> 01:29.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 01:46.733 --> 01:55.700 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 01:55.700 --> 02:04.766 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:04.766 --> 02:08.033 align:left position:15% line:5% size:75% NARRATOR: Fishermen are known for tall tales, 02:08.033 --> 02:10.500 align:left position:25% line:5% size:65% but this one is true. 02:10.500 --> 02:20.500 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:20.500 --> 02:21.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:21.800 --> 02:26.800 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% It begins in May 2013, when a fisher from Guatemala 02:26.800 --> 02:29.900 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% is pushed into an act of desperation. 02:29.900 --> 02:35.066 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:35.066 --> 02:37.100 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% The big fish he depends on -- 02:37.100 --> 02:39.733 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% the groupers, snappers, and jacks -- 02:39.733 --> 02:41.366 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% have virtually vanished 02:41.366 --> 02:44.200 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% from waters that once teemed with life. 02:44.200 --> 02:54.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:54.200 --> 02:58.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 02:58.033 --> 03:00.500 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% He takes a dangerous gambit 03:00.500 --> 03:03.966 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% and pushes farther and farther into the open ocean. 03:03.966 --> 03:09.133 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 03:09.133 --> 03:14.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 03:14.300 --> 03:19.266 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% As the sun rises, his engine struggles under the strain. 03:19.266 --> 03:25.300 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Motor sputters ] 03:25.300 --> 03:35.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 03:35.300 --> 03:38.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 03:38.300 --> 03:44.066 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Miles from land, the water is unexpectedly shallow. 03:44.066 --> 03:51.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 03:51.566 --> 03:53.900 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% Just beneath the swell, 03:53.900 --> 03:58.200 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% a massive crown of rock and coral rises up -- 03:58.200 --> 04:02.100 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% an uncharted, undiscovered reef. 04:02.100 --> 04:06.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 04:06.733 --> 04:09.800 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% It's a tantalizing treasure, 04:09.800 --> 04:12.633 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% a Caribbean secret that will raise hopes 04:12.633 --> 04:16.233 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% for the survival of coral reefs everywhere. 04:16.233 --> 04:24.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 04:24.733 --> 04:28.233 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% The fisher tells only a handful of people. 04:31.933 --> 04:36.666 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Ana Giró, Kenny Martin, and Dr. Melanie McField 04:36.666 --> 04:40.366 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% have spent years studying Caribbean corals. 04:40.366 --> 04:42.733 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Ana is among the first to hear. 04:42.733 --> 04:44.500 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% PETERSEN: So, this fisherman comes up to me, 04:44.500 --> 04:47.366 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% and he told me about some rocks. 04:47.366 --> 04:50.200 align:left position:27.5% line:5% size:62.5% And so I told him, "Well, take me there. 04:50.200 --> 04:51.966 align:left position:40% line:5% size:50% You know, I want to see the rocks 04:51.966 --> 04:53.766 align:left position:37.5% line:5% size:52.5% that you -- that you're telling me." 04:53.766 --> 05:03.833 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:03.833 --> 05:10.966 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:10.966 --> 05:13.133 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% It's just humongous. 05:13.133 --> 05:16.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:16.033 --> 05:20.400 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% It's like a medieval fortress, like, just big and robust. 05:20.400 --> 05:22.933 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:22.933 --> 05:25.200 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% We have pinnacles that come out. 05:25.200 --> 05:27.633 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:27.633 --> 05:32.166 align:left position:37.5% line:89% size:52.5% Deep walls. 05:32.166 --> 05:35.633 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% And then, incredible barrel sponges. 05:35.633 --> 05:39.166 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:39.166 --> 05:41.533 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% It's just mesmerizing. 05:41.533 --> 05:51.533 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 05:51.533 --> 06:01.600 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:01.600 --> 06:04.866 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:04.866 --> 06:08.566 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: This newfound reef is a stunning contrast 06:08.566 --> 06:11.666 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% to many other Caribbean reefs that are in peril. 06:11.666 --> 06:20.633 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:20.633 --> 06:25.366 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% It's like stepping back in time to when all reefs were thriving. 06:25.366 --> 06:32.166 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:32.166 --> 06:34.133 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PETERSEN: There are shallow reefs, 06:34.133 --> 06:39.700 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% vibrant and beautiful and different kinds of fish. 06:39.700 --> 06:42.166 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% The ecosystem is just so diverse, 06:42.166 --> 06:44.100 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% many types of different communities 06:44.100 --> 06:46.100 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% that compose this incredible system. 06:46.100 --> 06:50.966 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:50.966 --> 06:53.100 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% That was just an incredible experience 06:53.100 --> 06:55.466 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% for me, you know, personally. 06:55.466 --> 06:59.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 06:59.000 --> 07:01.766 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% McFIELD: When Ana told me she found this new reef, 07:01.766 --> 07:03.566 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% that it's just totally amazing, 07:03.566 --> 07:06.366 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% I believed it, but I wanted to see it. 07:06.366 --> 07:09.766 align:left position:15% line:5% size:75% We have benthic habitat maps. It's not there. 07:09.766 --> 07:11.966 align:left position:20% line:5% size:70% It's not there, you know, when you look on Google Earth, 07:11.966 --> 07:14.000 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% You know, we saw nothing on our maps. 07:14.000 --> 07:16.933 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 07:16.933 --> 07:19.566 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% NARRATOR: By 2017, 07:19.566 --> 07:24.633 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% the reef's significance is starting to emerge. 07:24.633 --> 07:29.133 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% It's an underwater mountaintop bigger than Manhattan, 07:29.133 --> 07:34.733 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% crowned with coral and set on the edge of the Cayman Trench, 07:34.733 --> 07:39.400 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% the deepest part of the Caribbean. 07:39.400 --> 07:45.066 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% It became known as the Cayman Crown. 07:45.066 --> 07:48.300 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% It's part of a Mesoamerican Reef system 07:48.300 --> 07:51.300 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% straddling the waters of Belize and Guatemala. 07:51.300 --> 07:59.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 08:02.366 --> 08:03.833 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% News of the coral wonder 08:03.833 --> 08:08.700 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% is quietly shared with fisheries expert Dr. Will HEYMAN. 08:08.700 --> 08:10.966 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% HEYMAN: I was at a meeting and somebody came up to me 08:10.966 --> 08:13.866 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% and told me this incredible story 08:13.866 --> 08:18.000 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% of a place that nobody knew about. 08:18.000 --> 08:22.433 align:left position:17.5% line:5% size:72.5% There's giant, giant fleets of ships that go through here 08:22.433 --> 08:24.733 align:left position:25% line:5% size:65% supplying the country of Guatemala, 08:24.733 --> 08:26.133 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% the country of Honduras. 08:26.133 --> 08:29.533 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% But when you check it out, you zoom in, you look at it, 08:29.533 --> 08:32.666 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% all the ships are going this way or they're going this way. 08:32.666 --> 08:33.966 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% There's a shallow area 08:33.966 --> 08:36.966 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% right between these two massive shipping routes, 08:36.966 --> 08:40.433 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% and that's the Cayman Crown. It's hiding in plain sight. 08:43.466 --> 08:45.200 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% What I heard was these were 08:45.200 --> 08:47.800 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% some of the healthiest coral reefs in the world. 08:52.033 --> 08:58.000 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% I have never seen any place with the kind of live coral cover, 08:58.000 --> 09:03.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% the density of fish. It was so magic. 09:03.966 --> 09:06.100 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% I realized we needed to research it, 09:06.100 --> 09:08.400 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% learn more about it, understand it better, 09:08.400 --> 09:10.700 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% but we needed to keep it quiet. 09:13.200 --> 09:15.166 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% NARRATOR: To build the scientific case 09:15.166 --> 09:19.566 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% for protecting the Crown, the team works quietly. 09:19.566 --> 09:25.166 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% If news got out, fishers might be tempted to target the reef. 09:25.166 --> 09:27.033 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PETERSEN: So, we kept it a secret. 09:27.033 --> 09:30.633 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% So research, the explorations, and everything, 09:30.633 --> 09:34.166 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% kind of just between a selected group of people. 09:34.166 --> 09:36.533 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% Before we have it, like, protected, 09:36.533 --> 09:39.566 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% that was, you know, our main -- our main goal. 09:39.566 --> 09:42.000 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: But protection will only be possible 09:42.000 --> 09:46.166 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% with the support of local fishers. 09:46.166 --> 09:51.700 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% The team invites Kenny Martin into the circle of trust. 09:51.700 --> 09:53.466 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% MARTIN: We grew up from a fishing family 09:53.466 --> 09:54.900 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% in a coastal community 09:54.900 --> 09:59.900 align:left position:15% line:5% size:75% catching fish on hand lines, and we used to use gillnets. 09:59.900 --> 10:01.966 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% It has caused a negative impact, 10:01.966 --> 10:07.366 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% and I've seen it now that I go out scuba diving. 10:07.366 --> 10:09.166 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% NARRATOR: Kenny wants to protect the fish 10:09.166 --> 10:12.033 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% that many people depend on. 10:12.033 --> 10:13.800 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% That means protecting the reef. 10:13.800 --> 10:15.733 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% MARTIN: ...1, go. 10:15.733 --> 10:18.133 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Without a healthy reef, 10:18.133 --> 10:20.100 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% there will be no fish to catch. 10:20.100 --> 10:24.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 10:24.200 --> 10:28.066 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% A coral reef is a complex web of life, 10:28.066 --> 10:31.700 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% and different animal and plant species have different roles. 10:31.700 --> 10:36.266 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 10:36.266 --> 10:40.466 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Deep gullies lead to an extraordinary coral city. 10:40.466 --> 10:44.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 10:44.566 --> 10:48.433 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% The inhabitants are strange and beautiful 10:48.433 --> 10:50.700 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% and dependent on one another. 10:50.700 --> 10:56.866 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 10:56.866 --> 11:01.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Parts of the reefscape can feel almost industrial. 11:01.600 --> 11:03.700 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% The chimney of a single sponge 11:03.700 --> 11:07.533 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% can filter 2,500 gallons of water a day. 11:09.700 --> 11:13.766 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% There are nurseries for raising young. 11:13.766 --> 11:16.300 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% And dormitories for the night shift. 11:16.300 --> 11:20.133 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 11:20.133 --> 11:23.133 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% Everything is interconnected. 11:23.133 --> 11:24.700 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% At fish grooming stations, 11:24.700 --> 11:30.933 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% spritely cleaners pick off parasites like sea lice. 11:30.933 --> 11:35.100 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% The reef is also home to giant predators, 11:35.100 --> 11:38.566 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% like this 400-pound goliath grouper. 11:41.200 --> 11:45.266 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% The gutsy little cleaner is not intimidated. 11:48.433 --> 11:50.333 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% There are visitors. 11:50.333 --> 11:53.300 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% A pod of dolphins feeds around the reef. 11:53.300 --> 11:57.000 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Dolphins squeaking ] 11:58.600 --> 12:02.433 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% Whale sharks, the biggest fish on the planet, 12:02.433 --> 12:06.966 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% gorge on an abundance of tiny zooplankton and fish eggs. 12:06.966 --> 12:15.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 12:15.733 --> 12:17.966 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Nurse sharks thrive here, too. 12:17.966 --> 12:23.266 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 12:23.266 --> 12:25.066 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% In a healthy system, 12:25.066 --> 12:29.366 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% predators only take a proportion of their prey. 12:29.366 --> 12:31.266 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% If the balance is right, 12:31.266 --> 12:34.833 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% the number of predators and prey can be impressive. 12:34.833 --> 12:40.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 12:40.200 --> 12:43.933 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Predators, like jacks, snappers, and groupers, 12:43.933 --> 12:46.400 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% are vital to the health of the reef 12:46.400 --> 12:48.733 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% and a key food for local people. 12:48.733 --> 12:52.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 12:52.733 --> 12:58.200 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Most prized by fishers is the Nassau grouper. 12:58.200 --> 13:01.966 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% Nassau groupers were once the backbone of the local economy, 13:01.966 --> 13:04.366 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% but now they are critically endangered. 13:04.366 --> 13:07.466 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 13:07.466 --> 13:10.533 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Groupers hunt at dawn and dusk. 13:10.533 --> 13:13.800 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% They lie in ambush for small fishes in the reef's 13:13.800 --> 13:15.633 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% darker recesses. 13:18.033 --> 13:20.833 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% The Nassau grouper, like everything here, 13:20.833 --> 13:23.433 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% depends on a healthy, balanced system. 13:23.433 --> 13:27.166 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 13:27.166 --> 13:29.500 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% The food web that feeds the groupers 13:29.500 --> 13:33.733 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% starts with sunlight and nutrients. 13:33.733 --> 13:36.633 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% Currents sweep in microscopic life 13:36.633 --> 13:40.766 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% that's harvested by fan corals and soft corals. 13:40.766 --> 13:43.500 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 13:43.500 --> 13:48.233 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% Feather duster worms unfurl to collect the invisible morsels. 13:48.233 --> 13:57.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 13:57.566 --> 13:59.833 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% The next level up are grazers, 13:59.833 --> 14:02.900 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% nibbling algae off coral and sponges. 14:02.900 --> 14:07.266 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 14:07.266 --> 14:11.400 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% French angelfish enjoy a side of sponge with their algae. 14:11.400 --> 14:14.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 14:14.800 --> 14:17.733 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% Parrotfish tend the coral garden. 14:17.733 --> 14:26.900 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 14:26.900 --> 14:30.466 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% Porkfish forage for mollusks and worms. 14:30.466 --> 14:34.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 14:34.733 --> 14:38.633 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Everything from microscopic plant to predator 14:38.633 --> 14:40.800 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% is bound together. 14:45.933 --> 14:49.833 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% Spurred on by the riches, the team has been painstakingly 14:49.833 --> 14:55.433 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% creating an inventory of what lives on the reef and where. 14:55.433 --> 14:57.933 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% PETERSEN: It took us a long time to explore all the reefs 14:57.933 --> 14:59.066 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% that we surveyed, 14:59.066 --> 15:02.000 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% like 90 kilometers square of the reef. 15:02.000 --> 15:04.500 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Doing monitoring of coral-reef health 15:04.500 --> 15:07.866 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% and the geomorphology, and the coral cover was incredible, 15:07.866 --> 15:11.700 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% like nothing that I've ever seen before. 15:11.700 --> 15:14.700 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% NARRATOR: Ana photographs the coral in strips, 15:14.700 --> 15:17.966 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% building a mosaic of the richer parts of the reef. 15:17.966 --> 15:21.900 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 15:21.900 --> 15:24.400 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% The photo maps reveal that the Crown 15:24.400 --> 15:30.866 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% has the highest live coral cover in the Mesoamerican Reef. 15:30.866 --> 15:32.633 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% McFIELD: So we can zoom in right here. 15:32.633 --> 15:34.366 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% PETERSEN: Yeah, if you zoom in right here, 15:34.366 --> 15:36.300 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% you know the coral composition. 15:36.300 --> 15:37.566 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% Coral cover, as well. 15:37.566 --> 15:40.466 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% McFIELD: This is the site with 77% live coral cover? 15:40.466 --> 15:42.000 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% PETERSEN: Yes, this is the site that we have. 15:42.000 --> 15:43.166 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% McFIELD: And you see it. 15:43.166 --> 15:44.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% PETERSEN: A huge amount of coral cover. 15:44.600 --> 15:46.833 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% I mean, compared to the rest of the Mesoamerican Reef, 15:46.833 --> 15:50.966 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% when we're talking about a 19% coral cover... 15:50.966 --> 15:52.233 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% McFIELD: This is the highest now. 15:52.233 --> 15:55.133 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% PETERSEN: This is -- yeah, this is the highest. 15:55.133 --> 15:57.333 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: What is revealed is a coral reef 15:57.333 --> 15:59.866 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% of global importance. 15:59.866 --> 16:04.266 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% But the team fears that time may be running out. 16:04.266 --> 16:07.100 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Caribbean waters are warming alarmingly, 16:07.100 --> 16:11.033 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% posing a grave threat to the corals. 16:11.033 --> 16:14.600 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% They place temperature sensors on the Crown. 16:14.600 --> 16:17.866 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% McFIELD: We do have bleaching events in the whole Caribbean, 16:17.866 --> 16:19.500 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% the whole world, obviously. 16:19.500 --> 16:22.300 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% That is probably one of the greatest threats in this area. 16:22.300 --> 16:24.800 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% PETERSEN: In October, the water is just so hot, 16:24.800 --> 16:27.700 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% you can feel the heat when diving. 16:27.700 --> 16:31.866 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% McFIELD: 1998 was the first global mass bleaching event, 16:31.866 --> 16:34.833 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% and it has gotten worse in the last few years. 16:34.833 --> 16:37.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 16:37.566 --> 16:39.500 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Tucked within the stony reef 16:39.500 --> 16:42.066 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% are tiny coral polyps. 16:42.066 --> 16:46.100 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Inside them, algae make sugars. 16:46.100 --> 16:50.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% But if it gets too hot, the algae make toxins. 16:50.600 --> 16:54.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 16:54.033 --> 17:00.166 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% Then the polyps eject the algae, and the coral bleaches white. 17:00.166 --> 17:03.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% The algae can return if the water cools soon. 17:03.966 --> 17:07.533 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% Otherwise, the coral often dies. 17:07.533 --> 17:12.600 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 17:12.600 --> 17:17.433 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% From 2014 to 2017, a bleaching apocalypse 17:17.433 --> 17:20.433 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% killed up to a third of the world's corals. 17:20.433 --> 17:26.933 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 17:26.933 --> 17:31.833 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% Amazingly, the Crown was unscathed. 17:31.833 --> 17:37.233 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% But in October 2019, tragedy strikes the region. 17:37.233 --> 17:45.333 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 17:45.333 --> 17:47.833 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% The Crown takes a direct hit. 17:47.833 --> 17:53.966 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 17:53.966 --> 17:55.733 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PETERSEN: It was completely bleached. 17:55.733 --> 17:59.733 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Like, all of it. It was just all white. 17:59.733 --> 18:02.300 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% HEYMAN: We saw a massive bleaching event. 18:02.300 --> 18:05.833 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% I mean, the corals that we came to know and love 18:05.833 --> 18:07.933 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% blanketed with snow, it looked like. 18:07.933 --> 18:15.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 18:15.100 --> 18:17.500 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Then, four months later, 18:17.500 --> 18:21.166 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% the team notices something extraordinary. 18:21.166 --> 18:22.966 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PETERSEN: When we go back in January, 18:22.966 --> 18:26.433 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% the corals get better. 18:26.433 --> 18:28.366 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% February, they get even better. 18:28.366 --> 18:32.233 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 18:32.233 --> 18:34.800 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% May, the corals are looking fine. 18:34.800 --> 18:36.433 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% They're looking beautiful. 18:36.433 --> 18:40.466 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 18:40.466 --> 18:43.233 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% McFIELD: We have this beautiful Cayman Crown Reef, 18:43.233 --> 18:44.966 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% and it has recovered. 18:44.966 --> 18:48.366 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% The corals in this region are resilient. 18:48.366 --> 18:53.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 18:53.033 --> 18:56.966 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: The news reaches coral expert Myles Phillips. 18:56.966 --> 19:02.900 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% He joins the team to investigate the Crown's remarkable recovery. 19:02.900 --> 19:06.233 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Will Heyman shares his theory. 19:06.233 --> 19:08.033 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% HEYMAN: Let me give you the geographic context. 19:08.033 --> 19:09.633 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% So, this is the Gulf of Honduras. 19:09.633 --> 19:11.366 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% PHILLIPS: Yeah. HEYMAN: And in this channel, 19:11.366 --> 19:12.900 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% that's your Cayman Crown. 19:12.900 --> 19:17.300 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% What you got to remember is that this is the Cayman Trench. 19:17.300 --> 19:21.200 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% Here, it's already a thousand, 1,500 meters, 19:21.200 --> 19:22.900 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% and then drops, drops, drops, drop, drops -- 19:22.900 --> 19:25.266 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% 7,600 meters, deepest point. 19:25.266 --> 19:33.066 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 19:33.066 --> 19:34.466 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% NARRATOR: At its deepest, 19:34.466 --> 19:37.566 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% the trench is over 4 miles down. 19:37.566 --> 19:40.733 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% A 15-pound bowling ball dropped in 19:40.733 --> 19:44.033 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% would take over an hour and a half to hit bottom. 19:44.033 --> 19:52.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 19:52.733 --> 19:55.566 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% Cold currents rising from those depths 19:55.566 --> 19:58.066 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% sweep nutrients up to the Crown. 19:58.066 --> 20:03.700 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 20:03.700 --> 20:05.600 align:left position:42.5% line:83% size:47.5% HEYMAN: This water comes slamming up 20:05.600 --> 20:07.733 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% onto this vertical shelf. 20:07.733 --> 20:10.266 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% So where we were, those jewel reefs -- 20:10.266 --> 20:12.600 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PHILLIPS: Right at the top of it. 20:12.600 --> 20:13.833 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% So that's the source of your upwelling. 20:13.833 --> 20:15.100 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% HEYMAN: Exactly. 20:15.100 --> 20:18.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 20:18.566 --> 20:22.633 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: The upwelling flows along folds of rock and coral 20:22.633 --> 20:26.433 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% that act like pipes and channels in a cooling system, 20:26.433 --> 20:29.266 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% easing temperatures and providing nutrients. 20:29.266 --> 20:36.633 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 20:42.800 --> 20:44.800 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% HEYMAN: The other factor that we haven't talked about, 20:44.800 --> 20:47.100 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% we get 4 meters, like 12 feet of rain, 20:47.100 --> 20:48.500 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% that falls all within a -- 20:48.500 --> 20:49.733 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% PHILLIPS: All in this region. 20:49.733 --> 20:51.766 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% HEYMAN: Through agricultural lands, through -- 20:51.766 --> 20:53.833 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% PHILLIPS: Into this one bay, through the same little channel. 20:53.833 --> 20:55.766 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% HEYMAN: Exactly. PHILLIPS: So this is forming, 20:55.766 --> 20:57.300 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% like a -- like, a roof, like a shade 20:57.300 --> 21:00.700 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% over this coral reef. HEYMAN: That's it. 21:00.700 --> 21:03.933 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: Just as the Caribbean water temperature peaks, 21:03.933 --> 21:08.300 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% muddy water washes over the reef. 21:08.300 --> 21:11.266 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Emerging research suggests that this runoff 21:11.266 --> 21:14.266 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% could shield corals from damaging sunlight. 21:14.266 --> 21:23.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 21:23.300 --> 21:25.666 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% HEYMAN: They're getting shade, they're getting fed, 21:25.666 --> 21:27.233 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% and they're getting cooled. 21:27.233 --> 21:28.866 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% So where all the rest of the Caribbean 21:28.866 --> 21:31.500 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% took that bleaching and wrestled coming back, 21:31.500 --> 21:34.766 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% this area is resilient because of those factors. 21:36.900 --> 21:42.300 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: Another factor may be the corals themselves. 21:42.300 --> 21:45.900 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% Myles finds an abundance of slow-growing corals 21:45.900 --> 21:49.000 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% that can withstand warming waters. 21:49.000 --> 21:53.266 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% He also sees a surprising amount of faster-growing corals 21:53.266 --> 21:57.400 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% that proliferate like weeds after bleaching events. 21:57.400 --> 21:59.900 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% PHILLIPS: Well, what I found was lettuce coral, 21:59.900 --> 22:04.700 align:left position:17.5% line:5% size:72.5% considered the poster child for these weedy species 22:04.700 --> 22:07.166 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% that, honestly, reproduce so quickly 22:07.166 --> 22:13.000 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% or so effectively that they can quickly repopulate an area. 22:13.000 --> 22:15.333 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% You also had these stress-tolerant corals 22:15.333 --> 22:16.833 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% that invest a lot of metabolic energy 22:16.833 --> 22:19.200 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% in surviving things -- big brain corals. 22:19.200 --> 22:22.600 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% And they were massive at the Cayman Crown. 22:24.700 --> 22:26.466 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: But what astounds Myles 22:26.466 --> 22:29.100 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% is something he doesn't find. 22:29.100 --> 22:32.700 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% A deadly disease has been sweeping the Caribbean. 22:32.700 --> 22:34.600 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% To Myles' relief, 22:34.600 --> 22:37.633 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% the normally susceptible pillar and brain corals 22:37.633 --> 22:41.866 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% seem untouched here. 22:41.866 --> 22:44.533 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% PHILLIPS: I saw no sign of stony coral tissue loss disease. 22:44.533 --> 22:48.266 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% Actually, no sign of any disease at all that I could see. 22:48.266 --> 22:51.200 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% These corals must be tens or hundreds of years old, 22:51.200 --> 22:52.666 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% and they look like they've never gone 22:52.666 --> 22:55.300 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% through anything in their lives. They're completely healthy. 22:58.800 --> 23:02.100 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% NARRATOR: The crown has been a sanctuary, 23:02.100 --> 23:06.266 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% except its isolation has not protected it 23:06.266 --> 23:08.066 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% from another invader. 23:08.066 --> 23:16.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 23:16.033 --> 23:20.600 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% It's a creature that's become a global menace. 23:20.600 --> 23:23.900 align:left position:40% line:89% size:50% Lionfish. 23:23.900 --> 23:27.733 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% They were first seen around Belize in 2008. 23:27.733 --> 23:30.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 23:30.800 --> 23:33.433 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% These predators from the Indo-Pacific 23:33.433 --> 23:38.233 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% are among the most aggressive, invasive species on the planet. 23:38.233 --> 23:48.233 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 23:48.233 --> 23:58.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 23:58.200 --> 24:00.600 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% Even the regal Nassau grouper 24:00.600 --> 24:04.333 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% is wary of the lionfish's venomous spines. 24:04.333 --> 24:07.233 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 24:07.233 --> 24:11.400 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% This disturbing discovery shows that the Cayman Crown 24:11.400 --> 24:16.566 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% is not totally disconnected from the outside world. 24:16.566 --> 24:19.233 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% The reef has trade routes. 24:19.233 --> 24:25.566 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 24:25.566 --> 24:30.033 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Fish use highways reaching out way beyond the reef. 24:30.033 --> 24:33.833 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 24:33.833 --> 24:37.866 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% The Crown, the team realizes, could be part of a network 24:37.866 --> 24:42.200 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% stretching across the Caribbean with the kind of connections 24:42.200 --> 24:44.833 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% that we are just beginning to understand. 24:47.000 --> 24:51.833 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% But untangling these connections has to be put on hold. 24:51.833 --> 24:55.533 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Thunder crashes ] 24:55.533 --> 25:00.333 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% [ Wind howling ] 25:00.333 --> 25:02.333 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Thunder rumbles ] 25:05.533 --> 25:08.333 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Thunder crashes ] 25:08.333 --> 25:11.400 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Hurricanes and other storms in the Caribbean 25:11.400 --> 25:14.433 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% are becoming more frequent and powerful, 25:14.433 --> 25:18.300 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% most likely due to climate change. 25:18.300 --> 25:20.166 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% The researchers can only hope 25:20.166 --> 25:23.833 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% that the Crown's location will protect it 25:23.833 --> 25:27.466 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% as a storm lashes nearby shallow reefs. 25:31.466 --> 25:34.000 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% McFIELD: What we're seeing in areas that are being hit 25:34.000 --> 25:36.633 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% over and over with the intensity of hurricanes 25:36.633 --> 25:39.933 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% is that that is one of the main causes of reef decline. 25:39.933 --> 25:43.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% And we don't have that down here. It's very minimal. 25:43.600 --> 25:45.600 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% The Cayman Crown's perfectly situated 25:45.600 --> 25:48.233 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% below the main hurricane belt. 26:02.866 --> 26:04.766 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: The Crown's exact position 26:04.766 --> 26:08.566 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% is yet another factor that may make it a kind of ark, 26:08.566 --> 26:11.566 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% able to seed other reefs with life. 26:11.566 --> 26:15.600 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 26:15.600 --> 26:18.866 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% After the storm, the team is back at work 26:18.866 --> 26:21.300 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% documenting the Crown's inhabitants. 26:21.300 --> 26:25.300 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 26:25.300 --> 26:28.533 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% Hamlets are easily overlooked fish, 26:28.533 --> 26:32.666 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% but seeing the start of their courtship brings renewed hope. 26:32.666 --> 26:42.666 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 26:42.666 --> 26:45.533 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 26:45.533 --> 26:48.600 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% They release hundreds of microscopic eggs 26:48.600 --> 26:50.500 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% into the current, 26:50.500 --> 26:54.066 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% which sweeps them away from the Crown's hungry mouths. 26:54.066 --> 27:00.666 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 27:00.666 --> 27:05.000 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% A sea cucumber also adds eggs into the current. 27:05.000 --> 27:14.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 27:14.100 --> 27:20.033 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% A school of blue tangs joins the party at a favorite parapet. 27:20.033 --> 27:24.133 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% The females release eggs, the males sperm, 27:24.133 --> 27:26.500 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% and the eggs are fertilized. 27:26.500 --> 27:33.466 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 27:33.466 --> 27:37.400 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Currents can carry eggs and larvae hundreds of miles, 27:37.400 --> 27:41.100 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% seeding reefs from Cuba to Honduras. 27:41.100 --> 27:43.833 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 27:43.833 --> 27:46.666 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Others linger in gyres around the crown. 27:46.666 --> 27:54.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 27:54.100 --> 27:58.000 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% From a few days old, larval fish can swim, 27:58.000 --> 28:04.366 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% guided by temperature, currents, or maybe even sound. 28:04.366 --> 28:09.266 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% They are heading for the mangroves on a nearby island. 28:09.266 --> 28:12.566 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% It's an in-between world of marine trees 28:12.566 --> 28:15.766 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% that will serve as their nursery. 28:15.766 --> 28:25.766 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 28:25.766 --> 28:30.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 28:30.000 --> 28:33.166 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% There are gangs of pint-sized predators, 28:33.166 --> 28:36.866 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% like snappers and jacks, learning the ropes. 28:36.866 --> 28:40.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 28:40.100 --> 28:43.166 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% An inch-long barracuda lays low. 28:43.166 --> 28:46.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 28:46.033 --> 28:49.666 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% Here's a baby cubera snapper, a miniature version 28:49.666 --> 28:54.900 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% of the voracious hunter it will become. 28:54.900 --> 28:57.466 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% Young wrasse go to school. 28:57.466 --> 29:01.333 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% And joining the class are baby butterfly fish. 29:01.333 --> 29:09.266 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 29:09.266 --> 29:14.400 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% The next stop for many young fish is seagrass meadows. 29:14.400 --> 29:18.066 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% They find more food here but have less protection 29:18.066 --> 29:21.000 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% than when hiding in the mangrove roots. 29:21.000 --> 29:23.833 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 29:23.833 --> 29:28.800 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Young sardines try to avoid run-ins with Spanish mackerel. 29:28.800 --> 29:38.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 29:38.800 --> 29:44.700 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 29:44.700 --> 29:47.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% The abundance of life attracts nurse sharks 29:47.966 --> 29:52.400 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% and sting and eagle rays that scour the shallow beds. 29:52.400 --> 30:02.333 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 30:08.966 --> 30:11.766 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% The juvenile fish will set out for new reefs 30:11.766 --> 30:13.500 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% when they're old enough. 30:13.500 --> 30:16.833 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 30:16.833 --> 30:20.433 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% To the researchers, the reefs, the seagrass meadows, 30:20.433 --> 30:24.266 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% and the mangroves make up a trinity of life, 30:24.266 --> 30:28.800 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% each an essential part of a single system. 30:28.800 --> 30:30.766 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% PETERSEN: For snappers and groupers, 30:30.766 --> 30:32.133 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% we need to preserve all of it. 30:32.133 --> 30:33.500 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% We need to preserve the mangroves. 30:33.500 --> 30:37.400 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% We need to preserve the seagrass beds and the coral reefs. 30:37.400 --> 30:39.500 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% The connectivity is really important. 30:39.500 --> 30:43.533 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 30:43.533 --> 30:45.933 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: Young fish come back to the Crown, 30:45.933 --> 30:49.600 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% the hub of the system. 30:49.600 --> 30:53.400 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% Many fill the ranks of grazers or cleaners, 30:53.400 --> 30:57.200 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% ever vigilant for predators also coming of age, 30:57.200 --> 30:59.100 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% like these snappers. 30:59.100 --> 31:04.533 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 31:04.533 --> 31:08.733 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% The journey to adulthood can last several years. 31:08.733 --> 31:11.633 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% But snappers can live to be 80. 31:11.633 --> 31:15.366 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 31:15.366 --> 31:17.866 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% Each year, the predators aggregate 31:17.866 --> 31:20.133 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% at breeding grounds on the reef. 31:20.133 --> 31:30.133 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 31:30.133 --> 31:37.400 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 31:37.400 --> 31:41.000 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% Finding the location and timing of breeding big fish 31:41.000 --> 31:44.733 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% is like winning the lottery for a fisher. 31:44.733 --> 31:48.400 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Spawning sites are targeted all across the Caribbean. 31:51.400 --> 31:53.700 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% MARTIN: We've been seeing a lot of fish being caught 31:53.700 --> 31:55.766 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% and most fish with eggs. 31:55.766 --> 31:58.266 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% We've noticed that, every time you go out, 31:58.266 --> 32:00.400 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% you'll find less fish. 32:09.133 --> 32:11.433 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% NARRATOR: Kenny and Will are searching the Crown 32:11.433 --> 32:13.900 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% for likely fish-breeding sites 32:13.900 --> 32:18.533 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% to protect the spawning when it happens. 32:18.533 --> 32:22.300 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Both believe that the Crown must have major breeding grounds 32:22.300 --> 32:26.733 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% for Nassau groupers and other species based on the currents 32:26.733 --> 32:30.366 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% and ideal rocky outcrops and spurs. 32:30.366 --> 32:32.566 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% HEYMAN: These fish all come together to reproduce 32:32.566 --> 32:36.900 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% at these very specific places and times at elbows. 32:36.900 --> 32:39.200 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% This stage is promontory stage, 32:39.200 --> 32:41.166 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% so it's kind of like a table corner, right? 32:41.166 --> 32:44.333 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% Dropping off on two sides. 32:44.333 --> 32:48.233 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: Multiple species can gather at a single site. 32:48.233 --> 32:50.966 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% HEYMAN: What blows me away about these multi-species aggregation 32:50.966 --> 32:54.266 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% is, they all come at slightly different times. 32:54.266 --> 32:56.066 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% They're all queued up with the lunar cycle, 32:56.066 --> 32:59.466 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% with the moon, and with the seasonal cycles. 32:59.466 --> 33:03.000 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% I want to understand and characterize these aggregations. 33:03.000 --> 33:04.433 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% We've got to know what's going on 33:04.433 --> 33:06.566 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% in order to really protect it. 33:08.666 --> 33:10.733 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Will and Kenny zero in 33:10.733 --> 33:14.200 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% on the most likely outcrops and edges. 33:14.200 --> 33:15.700 align:left position:42.5% line:83% size:47.5% HEYMAN: I can't be there all the time, 33:15.700 --> 33:18.900 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% so we use remote sensing. 33:18.900 --> 33:22.233 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: They place cameras and microphones to collect data 33:22.233 --> 33:24.533 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% during the breeding season. 33:24.533 --> 33:26.000 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% HEYMAN: That data's not easy to analyze. 33:26.000 --> 33:27.933 align:left position:32.5% line:89% size:57.5% It takes time. 33:27.933 --> 33:30.766 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% And time is not on our side. 33:30.766 --> 33:35.333 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 33:35.333 --> 33:37.133 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: They also call in an expert 33:37.133 --> 33:41.633 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% on grouper spawning aggregations. 33:41.633 --> 33:45.833 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% Dr. Michelle Scharer studies fish acoustics. 33:45.833 --> 33:50.033 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% SCHARER: My main interest is in sound production of the fishes. 33:50.033 --> 33:52.566 align:left position:15% line:5% size:75% They live in this environment that is full of sound, 33:52.566 --> 33:56.500 align:left position:27.5% line:5% size:62.5% but very few people actually have studied that. 33:59.100 --> 34:01.400 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% There's an opportunity there to learn a lot 34:01.400 --> 34:03.966 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% about coral-reef ecology just by listening 34:03.966 --> 34:08.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% and not so much seeing what's going on. 34:08.600 --> 34:11.200 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% Took a little bit of training to hold your breath 34:11.200 --> 34:14.333 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% and actually listen when you're down there to the sounds 34:14.333 --> 34:16.966 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% and the different pitches 34:16.966 --> 34:20.266 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% and the different rumbles that are underwater. 34:20.266 --> 34:25.866 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% [ Discordant scratching ] 34:25.866 --> 34:28.466 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% [ Low-pitched thrum ] 34:28.466 --> 34:31.300 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: What sounds like a cacophony to us... 34:31.300 --> 34:32.600 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Scraping ] 34:32.600 --> 34:35.733 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% ...is actually a chorus of communication. 34:38.100 --> 34:39.900 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% SCHARER: Fish can definitely hear. 34:39.900 --> 34:41.933 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% They have ear bones just like we do, 34:41.933 --> 34:46.233 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% where they can actually sense those vibrations in the water. 34:46.233 --> 34:49.166 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% [ Low-pitched thrumming ] 34:49.166 --> 34:51.200 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Basically, fishes are communicating. 34:51.200 --> 34:54.633 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% They are emitting signals and receiving signals 34:54.633 --> 34:57.300 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% that let them know what's going on, 34:57.300 --> 34:59.300 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% if they're ready to spawn. 34:59.300 --> 35:04.700 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Thrumming ] 35:04.700 --> 35:07.266 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% NARRATOR: The scientists collect an underwater recorder 35:07.266 --> 35:09.133 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% set up months ago. 35:15.566 --> 35:17.366 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% SCHARER: We're recording 24 hours, 35:17.366 --> 35:21.300 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% and there's sounds accompanying all those moments. 35:21.300 --> 35:22.300 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Croaking ] 35:22.300 --> 35:23.566 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% It sounds spectacular. 35:23.566 --> 35:26.166 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% Just the amount and diversity 35:26.166 --> 35:28.266 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% and the frequencies that we're hearing. 35:28.266 --> 35:30.433 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Croaking ] 35:30.433 --> 35:33.033 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% And there's other little grunts and beeps and boops 35:33.033 --> 35:36.566 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% that are different organisms that live on the reef. 35:36.566 --> 35:39.600 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% So I think it sounds pretty cool. 35:39.600 --> 35:42.866 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Different species will have different frequency bands. 35:42.866 --> 35:44.900 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% [ High-pitched croaking ] 35:44.900 --> 35:47.233 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% -Toadfish. -Toadfish, oh! 35:47.233 --> 35:49.433 align:left position:37.5% line:89% size:52.5% [ Laughs ] 35:49.433 --> 35:53.933 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% NARRATOR: Toadfish are the noisy neighbors. 35:53.933 --> 35:56.466 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% Squirrelfish communicate in clicks. 35:56.466 --> 35:59.500 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% [ Squirrelfish clicking ] 35:59.500 --> 36:01.266 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Scraping ] 36:01.266 --> 36:05.000 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Grunts make sound by grinding their teeth. 36:05.000 --> 36:10.833 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Scraping continues ] 36:10.833 --> 36:12.800 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% A batfish bleats. 36:12.800 --> 36:14.933 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% [ Batfish bleating ] 36:18.166 --> 36:22.066 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% Michelle has identified fish calls used to court, 36:22.066 --> 36:25.766 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% defend territory, and warn of danger. 36:25.766 --> 36:27.400 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% [ Low-pitched thrumming ] 36:32.333 --> 36:35.833 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% Nassau groupers grumpily defend their home. 36:35.833 --> 36:40.366 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues ] 36:40.366 --> 36:43.233 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% The calls travel long distances. 36:43.233 --> 36:44.433 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues ] 36:44.433 --> 36:48.166 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% Listening is key to survival. 36:48.166 --> 36:50.933 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% SCHARER: Baby fish need to hear where they're going 36:50.933 --> 36:54.100 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% and they use the sound to guide their swimming. 36:54.100 --> 36:56.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% This helps them then grow up on these reefs. 36:59.466 --> 37:03.366 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% As they grow and they need to find where to go to spawn, 37:03.366 --> 37:06.966 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% they can rely on sound to find those pathways to meet up 37:06.966 --> 37:10.533 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% at the spawning aggregation site when it's time. 37:10.533 --> 37:11.833 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% I heard something there different. 37:11.833 --> 37:13.233 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% Did you hear it, too? 37:13.233 --> 37:14.800 align:left position:45% line:83% size:45% Yeah? PETERSEN: Yeah, it's different. 37:14.800 --> 37:16.266 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% SCHARER: Okay. There's something in here. 37:16.266 --> 37:19.133 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: This rich soundscape helps make the case 37:19.133 --> 37:22.833 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% that the Cayman Crown must be protected. 37:22.833 --> 37:27.833 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% And in 2020, science wins a big victory. 37:27.833 --> 37:29.700 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% The countries sharing the reef 37:29.700 --> 37:34.733 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% grant the Crown conservation status. 37:34.733 --> 37:36.566 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% McFIELD: We've protected this reef now. 37:36.566 --> 37:38.400 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% In Guatemala, it's fully protected. 37:38.400 --> 37:41.833 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% In Belize, it's highly protected. 37:41.833 --> 37:43.833 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% They've stepped up to the plate and protected it. 37:43.833 --> 37:47.966 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% So, you know, that was our ultimate goal, 37:47.966 --> 37:49.633 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% is, "Hey, we need to protect this," 37:49.633 --> 37:51.966 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% and now it's happened. 37:51.966 --> 37:59.400 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 37:59.400 --> 38:02.766 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% This helps, but I think we need to now really work 38:02.766 --> 38:08.233 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% on management and enforcement and do all that we can to ensure 38:08.233 --> 38:11.433 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% that this reef does have all the elements 38:11.433 --> 38:13.433 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% that will help it be resilient 38:13.433 --> 38:17.066 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% and that fish are on the reef and not being taken. 38:17.066 --> 38:20.400 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 38:20.400 --> 38:23.433 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% NARRATOR: And, indeed, the conservation win 38:23.433 --> 38:26.166 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% appears short-lived. 38:26.166 --> 38:28.366 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 38:28.366 --> 38:30.833 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% Michelle is already finding evidence 38:30.833 --> 38:35.333 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% that the Crown's future is in jeopardy. 38:35.333 --> 38:37.166 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% It's spawning time, 38:37.166 --> 38:40.633 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% the same season Will heard groupers two years ago. 38:40.633 --> 38:43.700 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 38:43.700 --> 38:48.000 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% Now, Michel detects a shift. 38:48.000 --> 38:50.600 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 38:50.600 --> 38:53.366 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% SCHARER: We did not hear as many as we would expect. 38:53.366 --> 38:56.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 38:56.733 --> 39:01.266 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% So I think there may be something going on. 39:01.266 --> 39:04.333 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% NARRATOR: In fact, the groupers seem to have 39:04.333 --> 39:07.100 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% almost disappeared from the Crown. 39:07.100 --> 39:17.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 39:17.100 --> 39:21.733 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 39:21.733 --> 39:25.200 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% The news stuns the team. 39:25.200 --> 39:28.600 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% HEYMAN: Fishers have realized that this is a gold mine. 39:28.600 --> 39:30.533 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% You know, I'm not an emotional guy, 39:30.533 --> 39:33.266 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% but how do you deal with this? 39:35.466 --> 39:39.466 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% McFIELD: How do we stop it? How do we stop the degradation? 39:42.433 --> 39:46.700 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% NARRATOR: Fishers must have been targeting the Crown. 39:46.700 --> 39:48.533 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% But it's not the locals. 39:48.533 --> 39:50.700 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% Kenny has been working with him. 39:50.700 --> 39:53.733 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% He's confident they are respecting a fishing ban 39:53.733 --> 39:55.666 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% the government's put in place. 39:58.433 --> 40:00.166 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% [ Indistinct conversations ] 40:00.166 --> 40:02.000 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% The team suspects the raiders 40:02.000 --> 40:05.300 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% are from outside Belize and Guatemala. 40:11.100 --> 40:14.733 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% MARTIN: We've been seeing nets, fishing line, even starting 40:14.733 --> 40:16.800 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% and batting into the reef. 40:16.800 --> 40:19.133 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% I've been seeing anchors that are used 40:19.133 --> 40:21.633 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% to moor their boats when they go fishing. 40:21.633 --> 40:23.900 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% We've been seeing a lot of broken corals, 40:23.900 --> 40:26.266 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% ripped-out sponges, and stuff like that. 40:26.266 --> 40:29.433 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% So we know that fishermen are targeting it a lot 40:29.433 --> 40:33.100 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% for commercial species. 40:33.100 --> 40:36.866 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: A sponge is sliced cleanly by a fishing line. 40:38.933 --> 40:42.033 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Kenny and Melanie stitched the pieces together. 40:42.033 --> 40:49.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 40:49.000 --> 40:52.233 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% But the team can only do so much. 40:52.233 --> 40:55.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 40:55.000 --> 40:57.500 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% MARTIN: I would like to see more protection. 40:57.500 --> 41:00.500 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% I would like to see patrol boats out there. 41:00.500 --> 41:04.733 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% I would like to see Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras 41:04.733 --> 41:07.300 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% working together to protect these resources 41:07.300 --> 41:11.100 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% that is very vital to fishermen's livelihood 41:11.100 --> 41:14.900 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% and also for the local people. 41:14.900 --> 41:16.333 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: The current protections, 41:16.333 --> 41:18.066 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% incomplete as they are, 41:18.066 --> 41:22.500 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% are placing the guardians of the reef at risk. 41:22.500 --> 41:24.800 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% HEYMAN: They're protecting globally important, 41:24.800 --> 41:28.933 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% valuable resources on the front line at night, 41:28.933 --> 41:31.433 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% you know, with people coming out there with guns. 41:31.433 --> 41:35.100 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% It's dangerous. This is protecting gold. 41:35.100 --> 41:41.533 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 41:41.533 --> 41:44.933 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Generator whirring ] 41:44.933 --> 41:46.433 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% PETERSEN: It's really alarming. 41:46.433 --> 41:50.100 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% You know, we need to think about what to -- what to do. 41:50.100 --> 41:52.233 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 41:52.233 --> 41:54.366 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% We need to bring back our fish. 41:54.366 --> 42:00.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 42:00.033 --> 42:03.100 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: As the team calls for enforcement, 42:03.100 --> 42:05.100 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Michelle ponders whether groupers 42:05.100 --> 42:08.666 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% can be lured back to the Crown. 42:08.666 --> 42:11.500 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% She takes inspiration from the marine sanctuary 42:11.500 --> 42:15.466 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% of Glover's Reef, five hours north by boat. 42:17.833 --> 42:19.900 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% SCHARER: For a few years, I've been collaborating 42:19.900 --> 42:22.600 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% with Myles Phillips, recording the sounds 42:22.600 --> 42:26.233 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% of the groupers at the northeast point of Glover's, 42:26.233 --> 42:28.700 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% specifically listening to the sounds produced 42:28.700 --> 42:30.566 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% by the Nassau grouper 42:30.566 --> 42:34.300 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% to be able to detect when they are supposed to spawn. 42:36.666 --> 42:38.400 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Those recordings suggest 42:38.400 --> 42:42.200 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% that the groupers are starting to gather. 42:42.200 --> 42:44.633 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% SCHARER: These fish have to migrate quite a way 42:44.633 --> 42:46.700 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% from different distances. 42:46.700 --> 42:48.433 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% They need to know they're on the right track. 42:48.433 --> 42:52.533 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% So communication between them as they form little groups 42:52.533 --> 42:54.866 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% and move towards the main aggregation site 42:54.866 --> 42:58.133 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% is really important for them. 42:58.133 --> 43:01.966 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% NARRATOR: Nassau groupers are solitary most of the year. 43:01.966 --> 43:06.300 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% Reproduction brings them together. 43:06.300 --> 43:09.033 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Some will travel hundreds of miles. 43:09.033 --> 43:19.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 43:19.033 --> 43:24.033 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 43:24.033 --> 43:26.833 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% They arrive in December and January, 43:26.833 --> 43:30.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% when Caribbean waters are coolest. 43:30.966 --> 43:33.533 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% SCHARER: They start communicating to each other. 43:33.533 --> 43:35.166 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% They have different signals, 43:35.166 --> 43:39.000 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% different languages or different words or vowels 43:39.000 --> 43:42.066 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% for the different behaviors that they conduct only 43:42.066 --> 43:43.700 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% when they aggregate to spawn. 43:46.700 --> 43:49.733 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: They also communicate with stylized movements 43:49.733 --> 43:52.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% and shifting patterns on their skin. 43:52.966 --> 43:54.066 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% HEYMAN: They look cool already. 43:54.066 --> 43:55.733 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% They got their stripes and everything. 43:55.733 --> 43:57.366 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% But when it's getting close to spawning, 43:57.366 --> 43:59.233 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% they're, like, trying on different outfits. 43:59.233 --> 44:03.166 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Some turn white, some turn black. 44:03.166 --> 44:07.866 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: More groupers arrive. The chorus swells in volume. 44:07.866 --> 44:15.400 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Loud thrumming ] 44:15.400 --> 44:17.866 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 44:17.866 --> 44:23.000 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Some wait on the sea floor, conserving their energy. 44:23.000 --> 44:25.400 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% SCHARER: They need to synchronize to 1 or 2 nights. 44:25.400 --> 44:27.966 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% Everybody has to have their eggs and their sperm ready 44:27.966 --> 44:29.866 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% for that moment. 44:29.866 --> 44:31.966 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% They are communicating, "Are we ready to spawn? 44:31.966 --> 44:34.533 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% Do you think we can spawn now?" 44:34.533 --> 44:38.533 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues ] 44:38.533 --> 44:40.300 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% NARRATOR: As their numbers grow, 44:40.300 --> 44:44.633 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% they rise from the sea floor each evening, as if rehearsing. 44:44.633 --> 44:52.366 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues ] 44:52.366 --> 44:54.433 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% As the full moon approaches, 44:54.433 --> 44:58.100 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% the performance has become more sophisticated. 44:58.100 --> 44:59.366 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% HEYMAN: Where the real fun is, 44:59.366 --> 45:02.366 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% is in the courtship prior to spawning. 45:02.366 --> 45:07.033 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% Each has their own suite of behaviors and sounds 45:07.033 --> 45:11.933 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% that all come together into this courtship dance. 45:11.933 --> 45:14.733 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% [ Grouper thrums ] 45:14.733 --> 45:16.400 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% NARRATOR: If they are ready, 45:16.400 --> 45:19.900 align:left position:37.5% line:83% size:52.5% they change into matching costumes. 45:19.900 --> 45:21.566 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% HEYMAN: But as you get closer to spawning, 45:21.566 --> 45:24.966 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% they all choose this tuxedo, it looks like to me -- 45:24.966 --> 45:27.500 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% black, black, black, with a bar over the eye, 45:27.500 --> 45:28.633 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% and a white belly. 45:28.633 --> 45:32.366 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% We call it bicolor phase. 45:32.366 --> 45:34.400 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% [ Grouper thrumming ] 45:34.400 --> 45:36.600 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% It's like a vaudeville act. 45:36.600 --> 45:40.933 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% Males fighting over females, making sounds at each other. 45:40.933 --> 45:45.266 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues ] 45:45.266 --> 45:48.600 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% NARRATOR: Males wrestle around the females. 45:48.600 --> 45:50.066 align:left position:30% line:89% size:60% The noise builds. 45:50.066 --> 45:51.900 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% [ Grouper thrumming ] 45:51.900 --> 45:56.033 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% But night after night, they hold back. 45:56.033 --> 46:02.466 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% [ Grouper thrumming ] 46:02.466 --> 46:06.100 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Then, one night, the temperature is right. 46:06.100 --> 46:08.300 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% The moonlight is right. 46:08.300 --> 46:12.566 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Most importantly, there's a critical mass of fish. 46:12.566 --> 46:15.766 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% The chorus reaches a crescendo. 46:15.766 --> 46:23.300 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% [ Grouper thrumming loudly ] 46:23.300 --> 46:27.733 align:left position:32.5% line:89% size:57.5% Then, silence. 46:27.733 --> 46:30.733 align:left position:27.5% line:89% size:62.5% Spawning has begun. 46:46.200 --> 46:56.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 46:56.200 --> 46:57.866 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 46:57.866 --> 46:59.966 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% HEYMAN: These are the volcanoes of reproduction 46:59.966 --> 47:03.700 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% for the entire region. 47:03.700 --> 47:05.800 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% All of these fish coming all together 47:05.800 --> 47:08.500 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% at these promontories, currents that are upwelling 47:08.500 --> 47:10.200 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% and shooting by there and creating 47:10.200 --> 47:11.966 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% and captured in gyres, 47:11.966 --> 47:17.033 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% some shooting way long distances to seed other places. 47:17.033 --> 47:19.400 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% That is the large-scale connectivity 47:19.400 --> 47:22.100 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% throughout this entire wider Caribbean basin. 47:22.100 --> 47:32.100 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 47:32.100 --> 47:33.433 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 47:35.066 --> 47:38.033 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% NARRATOR: The mating spectacle at Glover's most likely 47:38.033 --> 47:40.400 align:left position:10% line:89% size:80% used to take place at the Crown. 47:43.100 --> 47:47.300 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Could it happen here again with a helping hand? 47:47.300 --> 47:52.000 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% Michelle hatches a plan to use sound recordings from Glover's 47:52.000 --> 47:55.433 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% to attract groupers to the Crown. 47:55.433 --> 47:58.600 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% SCHARER: If there are fish nearby, whatever's left, 47:58.600 --> 48:01.366 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% can we actually make them recover 48:01.366 --> 48:04.266 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% that spawning aggregation that once was at the jewel? 48:04.266 --> 48:05.966 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% HEYMAN: I'm curious. SCHARER: How about 48:05.966 --> 48:08.400 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% we put out loudspeakers and play these sounds 48:08.400 --> 48:11.100 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% and see if we can attract whatever's left 48:11.100 --> 48:13.533 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% of what used to be the aggregation at the jewel? 48:13.533 --> 48:14.766 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% HEYMAN: Okay. SCHARER: This would be 48:14.766 --> 48:17.133 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% the first try to attract fish 48:17.133 --> 48:19.966 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% that maybe are still there, but they've lost their cues 48:19.966 --> 48:22.166 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% because there's only a few fish left. 48:22.166 --> 48:26.333 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% So if we play back these sounds and they recognize them, 48:26.333 --> 48:29.066 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% maybe they'll come back to the aggregation site. 48:31.500 --> 48:35.733 align:left position:40% line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: It's not such a wild idea. 48:35.733 --> 48:40.200 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% In Australia, sound recordings were used to lure baby fish 48:40.200 --> 48:42.633 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% to settle on a recovering reef. 48:47.666 --> 48:52.533 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% Michelle and Kenny test an underwater speaker at the Crown. 48:52.533 --> 48:56.033 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% The first step is to gauge how far the sound travels. 48:56.033 --> 49:01.466 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% [ Grouper thrumming plays ] 49:01.466 --> 49:03.733 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% If the experiment works, 49:03.733 --> 49:09.133 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% it could jumpstart the recovery of fisheries at the Crown. 49:09.133 --> 49:12.466 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% [ Grouper thrumming plays ] 49:12.466 --> 49:14.733 align:left position:15% line:89% size:75% But recovery will also depend 49:14.733 --> 49:18.933 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% on staunch enforcement of the fishing ban. 49:18.933 --> 49:24.600 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% [ Grouper thrumming plays ] 49:24.600 --> 49:27.133 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% Groupers can recover. 49:27.133 --> 49:29.600 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% Strict protection of two aggregations 49:29.600 --> 49:30.900 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% in the Cayman Islands 49:30.900 --> 49:36.100 align:left position:25% line:83% size:65% tripled their numbers in under a decade. 49:36.100 --> 49:38.233 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% The team listens to the grouper calls 49:38.233 --> 49:41.000 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% coming from the speakers below. 49:41.000 --> 49:43.666 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% They anticipate what might happen. 49:49.533 --> 49:53.133 align:left position:35% line:89% size:55% [ Thrumming   ] 49:53.133 --> 49:55.833 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% MARTIN: Imagine hundreds of them coming up and "Kkkkkk," 49:55.833 --> 49:58.766 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% just making that thing happen. 49:58.766 --> 50:00.766 align:left position:42.5% line:83% size:47.5% HEYMAN: Oh, listen to that. 50:00.766 --> 50:03.100 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% SCHARER: I guess it takes one first one to go off, 50:03.100 --> 50:04.833 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% and then everybody follows in queue. 50:04.833 --> 50:06.066 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% PHILLIPS: They see one person go to the dance, 50:06.066 --> 50:08.033 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% where they're like, [snaps] "That's it." 50:08.033 --> 50:10.333 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% SCHARER: Mm-hmm. HEYMAN: Yeah. 50:10.333 --> 50:12.833 align:left position:22.5% line:89% size:67.5% [ Thrumming continues   ] 50:12.833 --> 50:18.266 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 50:18.266 --> 50:20.166 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% NARRATOR: When the Crown was discovered, 50:20.166 --> 50:22.466 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% it sparked a sense of hope 50:22.466 --> 50:27.533 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% that the Caribbean's embattled coral reefs may not be doomed. 50:27.533 --> 50:34.033 align:left position:10% line:83% size:80% And it has brought once unlikely allies together. 50:34.033 --> 50:37.933 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% MARTIN: It's gonna be a huge change to have fishermen 50:37.933 --> 50:41.433 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% thinking on a positive note to protect these resources 50:41.433 --> 50:44.066 align:left position:35% line:83% size:55% so they could replenish the areas. 50:44.066 --> 50:49.066 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 50:49.066 --> 50:51.266 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% NARRATOR: The team's success in exploring 50:51.266 --> 50:53.933 align:left position:32.5% line:83% size:57.5% and protecting this natural wonder 50:53.933 --> 50:58.633 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% has given them encouragement to carry on. 50:58.633 --> 51:01.933 align:left position:12.5% line:83% size:77.5% McFIELD: We all get refreshed, and our enthusiasm 51:01.933 --> 51:04.566 align:left position:30% line:83% size:60% and our hope for what we're doing, that it -- 51:04.566 --> 51:05.900 align:left position:32.5% line:89% size:57.5% we can succeed 51:05.900 --> 51:08.100 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% and we will succeed if we keep pushing. 51:08.100 --> 51:12.533 align:left position:25% line:89% size:65% So that's what we do. 51:12.533 --> 51:15.100 align:left position:17.5% line:83% size:72.5% NARRATOR: The Crown itself has also demonstrated 51:15.100 --> 51:17.366 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% a remarkable resilience. 51:21.333 --> 51:26.133 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% And the fight for its future has only just begun. 51:28.066 --> 51:31.133 align:left position:42.5% line:83% size:47.5% HEYMAN: I've seen places recover. 51:31.133 --> 51:33.300 align:left position:15% line:83% size:75% If we're -- If we're gentle, if we're good, 51:33.300 --> 51:37.066 align:left position:20% line:89% size:70% if we realize the value, 51:37.066 --> 51:38.500 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% these places are resilient. 51:38.500 --> 51:41.966 align:left position:17.5% line:89% size:72.5% These places can come back. 51:41.966 --> 51:44.466 align:left position:12.5% line:89% size:77.5% And that's why I maintain hope. 51:44.466 --> 51:51.233 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 51:51.233 --> 51:58.000 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 51:58.000 --> 52:00.966 align:left position:22.5% line:83% size:67.5% PHILLIPS: It's not even a little ray of hope. 52:00.966 --> 52:03.933 align:left position:27.5% line:83% size:62.5% This place is huge. It's like -- 52:03.933 --> 52:06.766 align:left position:20% line:83% size:70% It's like seeing the sun spilling out of the clouds. 52:06.766 --> 52:16.133 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:16.133 --> 52:23.400 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:25.466 --> 52:31.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:31.800 --> 52:41.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:41.800 --> 52:51.800 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:51.800 --> 52:57.466 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 52:57.466 --> 53:03.200 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪ 53:03.200 --> 53:06.600 align:left position:10% line:5% size:80% To learn more about what you've seen on this "Nature" program, 53:06.600 --> 53:08.533 align:left position:32.5% line:5% size:57.5% visit pbs.org. 53:08.533 --> 53:17.433 align:left position:47.5% line:5% size:42.5% ♪♪