CARMABI Research Institute

Nature, both above as below the water, has been intensively studied on Curaçao for more than five decades resulting in a large number of studies and publications. To facilitate this research, CARMABI, short for the Caribbean Marine Biological Institute was founded in 1955. In addition to facilitating and conducting research, this institute now plays an important role in advising government and other local organizations on the sustainable use of its natural resources. At present the institute runs a Natural Parks program by which it manages several protected areas such as the Christoffel Park (2000 hec²), the Shete Boka Park, known for its nesting turtles and the Curacao Marine Park, spanning 20km of uninhabited shore line. The institute still sits at its original, picturesque location at the opening of the Piscaderabay and reefs are found right in front of it. The institute can now house up to 25 persons on its premises, and recently renovated all dormitories, modernized its dive-facilities (Air/ Nitrox) and acquired new boats. The institute is currently visited by approx. 70 scientists a year for research purposes and by various universities for courses related to coral reef ecology.