Publications
Centruroides bicolor
Centruroides bicolor, a scorpion species native to Panama and Costa Rica, exhibits significant ecological diversity within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection. This study documents its distribution across multiple provinces in Panama, including Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí, and Veraguas, highlighting its adaptability to various microhabitats such as intradomiciliary spaces, under stones, logs, and within dry tree trunks. The research compiles extensive material examined from over 200 specimens collected between 1975 and 2026, providing critical data on the species' habitat preferences and geographic range. Notably, C. bicolor's presence in Coiba Island underscores its role in marine-protected areas, contributing to biodiversity studies in tropical ecosystems.
De cárcel a patrimonio mundial: historia del impacto ambiental en la Isla Penal de Coiba, Panamá (1872-2023)
Coiba Island, once a penal colony and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has undergone significant environmental transformations over 150 years. The study identifies nine distinct periods of land use and disturbance, revealing that despite extensive human activity—including selective logging, multi-stratified agroforestry, and cattle ranching—approximately 80% of the island remains covered by mature forest. Key findings include the presence of long-lasting fallow periods (33-9 years) creating a gradient of succession from the center to the east, and contrasting contemporary sites with divergent histories. These insights underscore the resilience of Coiba's ecosystems but also highlight the need for long-term studies to fully understand the legacy of anthropogenic perturbations.
Fish spawning aggregations in the Gulf of Chiriqui, Panamanian Pacific: six years of monitoring
A six-year monitoring effort in the Gulf of Chiriquí, Panamanian Pacific, has documented fish spawning aggregations (FSAs) for seven species, including three snappers, one jack, one grouper, and one wrasse. These aggregations were observed at multiple sites within Coiba National Park (CNP) and, for the first time, in the Islas Secas Archipelago (ISA). The study revealed that FSAs are associated with environmental conditions such as water column stratification, cold-water intrusion, thermocline shoaling, and decreased dissolved oxygen, all correlated with temperature dynamics. Spawning events were most frequent during morning hours. This research expands the known diversity of FSA-forming species in CNP from three to seven and provides new documentation for ISA.
Genetic and taxonomic data corroborate the existence of lemon shark, Negaprion brevirostris (Carchariniformes: Carcharhinidae) (Poey, 1868) in Coiba National Park, Panama
Researchers have confirmed the presence of lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) in Coiba National Park, Panama, marking the first documented occurrence of this species in the Eastern Tropical Pacific marine corridor. Genetic analysis of six young-of-the-year individuals collected from Boca Grande estuary revealed a 99% similarity with known lemon shark sequences, corroborating morphological identification. This discovery expands the known distribution of the species and provides foundational genetic data for Coiba National Park, with sequences deposited in GenBank for future comparative studies. The findings underscore the importance of Boca Grande estuary as a critical nursery area and offer insights for enhanced management strategies, including potential shark sanctuary designation.
Herpetofaunal richness and beta diversity between an offshore archipelago of the Eastern Tropical Pacific and adjacent mainland
Coiba Island National Park (CNP), an offshore archipelago separated from the mainland around 12,000–14,000 years ago, exhibits distinct herpetofaunal communities compared to adjacent mainland Panama. While reptile richness is similar between CNP and the mainland (maximum 21 vs. 25 species), amphibian diversity is notably lower in CNP (maximum 5 spp.) than on the mainland (maximum 13 spp.). The study, combining visual surveys, pitfall traps, and existing data, suggests that reptile richness may be underestimated due to limited sampling. Two new records—Oscaecilia sp. and the Turniptail gecko Techadactylus rapicauda—were identified for CNP. The findings imply that herpetofaunal diversity in CNP is influenced by heterogeneous vegetation, small-island effects, and possibly historical anthropogenic factors, warranting further investigation.
Feeding habits of the sea anemone Telmatactis panamensis (Actiniaria: Andvakiidae) from the Coiba National Park, Panama
A recent study reveals that the sea anemone Telmatactis panamensis, abundant in Coiba National Park, Panama, is an opportunistic polyphagous feeder, primarily consuming the most available prey in its environment. Analysis of 76 specimens collected in February 2023 showed that zooplankton—including copepods, eggs, and fish larvae—dominated its diet (88.9% by percentage), with benthic crustaceans and mollusks contributing minimally. The findings align with global patterns for sea anemones, suggesting this species exploits the most abundant prey in its ecosystem without significant dietary specialization. The research employed trophic indices to quantify prey importance, providing a rare baseline for T. panamensis biology in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
Rhodolith Diversity in Panama: A Baseline for Future Research and Conservation Actions
A total of 21 rhodolith species, predominantly from the Corallinaceae family and Lithophylloideae subfamily, have been identified along Panama's coast, marking them as significant indicators of ocean acidification and biodiversity hotspots. These calcareous red algae host diverse species within their three-dimensional structures but remain underrepresented in conservation efforts, particularly in Coiba National Park (PNC). This review consolidates existing literature, field observations, and molecular data to establish a baseline for future research and advocacy for rhodolith inclusion in protected area management plans. Despite limited knowledge on their conservation status, increasing sampling efforts and integrated studies are expected to enhance diversity estimates and inform conservation strategies.
Rise and spread of a social tradition of interspecies abduction
Researchers document the emergence and spread of a non-adaptive social tradition—'howler abduction'—in wild white-faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus imitator) within Coiba National Park, Panama. Over 15 months, five immature males were observed carrying infant howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata coibensis), a behavior with no clear adaptive function. The tradition originated from a single subadult male innovator and spread to four others in one capuchin group, which is also known for its unique stone tool-use tradition. The study suggests that the same ecological and social conditions fostering adaptive cultural innovations, such as tool-use, may also drive non-adaptive traditions in non-human primates.
The Trichoptera of Panama XXVIII. Nine new species of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae)
Researchers have identified nine new species of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) from the Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection in Panama. These discoveries, including Oxyethira jaramillosp. nov., Neotrichia afuerasp. nov., and seven others, bring the total number of caddisfly species known in Panama to 544, spanning 15 families and 56 genera. The new species were predominantly collected on the Soná Peninsula or offshore islands within the park, expanding the region's biodiversity record. This study contributes to the broader documentation of Trichoptera diversity in Panama, with implications for understanding aquatic ecosystems and conservation priorities.
Genetic Approach of the Coiba Island Howler Monkey Alouatta coibensis coibensis from Panama, and Its Conservation Implications
A genetic analysis of the Coiba island howler monkey (Alouatta coibensis coibensis) reveals high genetic diversity and connectivity within its population, suggesting resilience despite signs of past contraction. Researchers analyzed 14 fecal samples from two sites on Coiba Island in Panama using cytochrome oxidase I (COI) markers, finding haplotype diversity ranging from 0.68 to 0.80 and nucleotide diversity between 0.0026 and 0.0041. The study also detected evidence of population decline via Tajima's D but noted strong genetic flow, indicating a single, genetically healthy population. These findings provide critical baseline data for assessing the conservation status of this isolated primate species and its adaptive potential in the face of environmental changes.
Island Biogeography Theory and the Island Rule in Orchid Bees in Panama
Research on orchid bees (Euglossini) in Coiba National Park, Panama, reveals that while their abundance increases with island size, species richness does not follow the typical pattern predicted by Island Biogeography Theory (IBT). Instead, a few dominant species emerge as distance from the mainland grows, likely due to resource limitations favoring generalist species. Additionally, the study observed a marked reduction in body size for two common species, Euglossa imperialis and Euglossa mixta, with increased isolation, suggesting competition-driven miniaturization. This challenges assumptions about orchid bee population dynamics and provides new insights into their adaptability across insular habitats.
Male‐biased stone tool use by wild white‐faced capuchins ( Cebus capucinus imitator )
A male-biased pattern of stone tool use in white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus imitator) on Jicarón Island, Panama, contrasts with populations where both sexes use tools. Analysis of five years of camera trap data reveals that this bias is not due to physical limitations or competition over anvils, as adult females and juveniles demonstrate the ability to use tools. The study suggests that social structure, diet, and dispersal patterns may underlie such sex biases in socially learned behaviors, even when environmental constraints are absent.
Preliminary checklist of spiders (Araneae) from Coiba National Park, Panama
A preliminary checklist identifies at least 152 spider species (98 genera, 30 families) in Coiba National Park and its surrounding islands, Panamamarking the first comprehensive documentation of araneofauna diversity in this critical marine conservation area. Among these, three species are newly recorded for Panama: Ctenus nigrolineatus, Chapoda gitae, and Sarinda nigra. The study, conducted through field sampling between 2021 and 2023, highlights the urgent need for further research to inform conservation strategies, including DNA barcoding, population monitoring, and climate data integration from Coiba’s newly established meteorological station.
Tempo and Mode in Secondary Succession: Above-Ground Biomass, and Forest Structure on the Coiba Island, Panama (1919-2023)
Research on Coiba Island, Panama, reveals distinct successional pathways shaped by land-use history, challenging traditional views of ecological succession. The study found strong gradients (R² ≥ 0.87) linking above-ground biomass and basal area to past human activity, from unused to still-in-use sites, spanning 1919–2023. Three primary successional trajectories emerged: one from meadows, another from shifting agriculture, and a third from an ancient (>400-year-old) forest, with additional pathways tied to rivers and camps. These findings clarify debates on convergence vs. divergence in succession and offer land-use history-based strategies for conservation, providing actionable insights for protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Variación espacial en la estación seca de las características fisicoquímicas del agua marino-costera en Bahia Damas, Parque Nacional Coiba, Panamá
A study of Damas Bay in Coiba National Park, Panama, revealed significant depth-related variations in marine physicochemical parameters during the 2023 dry season. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and electrical conductivity decreased with depth, while salinity, total dissolved solids, density, hydrostatic pressure, and nutrient concentrations increased. Nitrate levels were lower than previously reported for Coiba's dry season, averaging 0.33 μM up to 25 meters, whereas phosphate levels aligned with expected values (0.17 μM at 25 meters). The findings highlight the influence of depth and coastal proximity on nutrient dynamics, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring to detect seasonal and annual variations. This research was supported by SENACYT's macro project.
Characterizing oceanographic conditions near Coiba Island and Pacific Panama using 20 years of satellite-based wind stress, SST and chlorophyll-a measurements
A 20-year analysis of satellite data reveals significant oceanographic variability near Coiba Island and the Pacific Panama coast, with distinct seasonal patterns in sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a). During the dry season, the Panama wind jet induces SST cooling and upwelling-driven Chl-a peaks, particularly in February/March. However, the Gulf of Chiriqui exhibits unique warming trends, with SSTs 1°C warmer than east of Coiba Island and occasional extreme Chl-a blooms (up to 32 mg/m³) in May 2007 and June 2008, whose causes remain unexplained. The study also highlights the impact of the 2015-2016 El Niño event, which elevated SSTs by up to +2°C for 12 months in the Gulf of Chiriqui. This research provides a critical baseline for understanding climatological conditions and interannual variability in this understudied marine region.
Coupling of coastal activity with tidal cycles is stronger in tool-using capuchins ( Cebus capucinus imitator )
Tool use in white-faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus imitator) on Jicarón Island, Coiba National Park, Panama, is more strongly linked to tidal cycles than in non-tool-using groups. This suggests that tool use enhances foraging efficiency and access to intertidal resources, such as molluscs and fruits, which are otherwise less accessible due to tidal fluctuations. The study analyzed over five years of camera trap data from varying distances along the coast, revealing distinct activity patterns tied to tides in tool-using capuchins compared to non-tool-users. These findings underscore the potential for tool use to facilitate niche expansion in these primates.
Environmental characterization of the estuarine zone of the Gulf of Montijo, province of Veraguas, Panama
A recent study in the Gulf of Montijo, Panama, reveals concerning levels of cadmium in marine sediments along its western coast. The research found cadmium concentrations exceeding Canadian marine sediment quality guidelines, suggesting potential anthropogenic impacts on this ecologically significant estuarine zone. The study analyzed physical and chemical parameters—temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity—across 16 sampling stations during specific tidal phases to assess spatial and vertical variability. Additionally, four sediment samples were collected from the western sector to evaluate heavy metal contamination. The findings highlight the need for continuous, seasonally representative monitoring with expanded station coverage to better understand and mitigate environmental degradation in this Ramsar-designated buffer zone of Coiba National Park.
First predation report of Gecarcinus quadratus (Brachyura: Gecarcinidae) by Ancylometes bogotensis (Arachnida: Ctenidae) in Coiba Island, Panama
Researchers document the first recorded predation event of the land crab Gecarcinus quadratus by the wandering spider Ancylometes bogotensis on Coiba Island, Panama. This novel predator-prey interaction highlights the ecological role of spiders as top predators in tropical island ecosystems, potentially regulating invertebrate populations akin to larger mainland predators. The study suggests that marine subsidies may influence terrestrial food webs, though further research is needed to fully understand these dynamics.
First scenic assessment of the Coiba National Park’s beaches (Panama)
A scenic assessment of Coiba National Park’s beaches, using the Coastal Scenery Evaluation System (CSES), reveals that 64% of its 42 evaluated beaches rank among the highest natural scenery grades. This study, covering over 200 km of coastline, identified only three beaches in the lowest class and none in the least scenic category. Additionally, a preliminary inventory of coastal fauna detected 13 mollusk species, alongside echinoderms and crustaceans. The findings highlight the park’s potential for heritage certification and provide a baseline for monitoring tourism impacts on both beach aesthetics and biodiversity. This research supports sustainable nature-based tourism within one of the Americas’ most critical marine protected areas.
Peces asociados a arrecifes y manglares en el Parque Nacional Coiba
A comprehensive inventory of fish species associated with coral reefs and mangroves in Coiba National Park, Panama, identified 156 bony fish species across 57 families alongside 10 cartilaginous fish species from 7 families. Conducted between January 1998 and 1999, the study employed diverse sampling techniques—including gillnets, hand nets, plastic bags, traps, spears, visual censuses, and trawls—to document ichthyological diversity in the park's northeastern sector. This dataset provides critical baseline data for understanding marine biodiversity in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting Coiba's ecological significance as a hotspot for reef and mangrove-associated fish species.
First records of Anthopleura nigrescens (Verrill, 1928) and Telmatactis panamensis (Verrill, 1869) (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Actiniaria) from Parque Nacional Coiba, Pacific coast of Panama
Two sea anemone species, Anthopleura nigrescens and Telmatactis panamensis, are documented for the first time in Parque Nacional Coiba, a UNESCO-listed marine protected area off Panama's Pacific coast. This discovery brings the known number of sea anemone species in Panama to 57, marking the first comprehensive study of these organisms on Coiba Island. The research provides detailed external anatomical descriptions and live specimen imagery, contributing critical taxonomic data to regional biodiversity records. By expanding the documented diversity of actiniarians in the region, this work enhances our understanding of marine life in one of the world's most significant protected areas.
Ecology, behavior, and vocalizations of the Coiba Spinetail ( Cranioleuca dissita ), a Panama endemic
A recent study confirms that the Coiba Spinetail (Cranioleuca dissita), endemic to Islas Coiba and Ranchería off Panama's Pacific coast, is a distinct species from the Rusty-backed Spinetail. The research reveals unique ecological traits, such as its preference for forest and edge habitats, foraging behavior on small branches or vines at heights of 7–10 meters, and a globe-shaped nest made of plant fibers—unlike the Rusty-backed Spinetail's grass-based structure. Acoustically, Coiba Spinetail's song features gradually lengthening notes that slow down, differing from both its genus and the Rusty-backed Spinetail. Genetic distinctiveness, combined with these findings, supports full species status for Coiba Spinetail, which, due to its limited range, is classified as Near Threatened under IUCN criteria.
Sequestration and Cyanobacterial Diet Preferences in the Opisthobranch Molluscs Dolabrifera nicaraguana and Stylocheilus rickettsi
Researchers have identified two novel depsipeptide compounds, veraguamide M and N, from the cyanobacterium cf. Lyngbya sp., which exhibit significant anti-parasitic activity against Plasmodium falciparum (malaria) and Leishmania donovani (visceral leishmaniasis). These compounds were found to be sequestered by two sea hare species, Dolabrifera nicaraguana and Stylocheilus rickettsi, highlighting the biotechnological potential of marine cyanobacteria. The study employed laboratory feeding preference assays to determine dietary preferences of D. nicaraguana, followed by bioactivity-guided fractionation to isolate and characterize the compounds. This marks the first discovery of such bioactive compounds in both sea hares and their cyanobacterial food source, underscoring the importance of chemical ecological studies in uncovering novel therapeutic agents.
Biometría y Evaluación Poblacional de Strombus peruvianus (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) en Granito de Oro, Parque Nacional Coiba, Panamá
Research on Strombus peruvianus in Coiba National Park, Panama, reveals a declining population with a density of 0.5 individuals per square meter (500,000 ind/ha). The study, conducted over three years (2015–2017), analyzed 50 specimens, finding males outnumbered females (63% vs. 38%). Individuals measured between 89–119 mm in length and weighed 179.5–392.5 g. The research used snorkeling surveys to assess biometric data, population structure, and density trends, highlighting the species' vulnerability in this UNESCO-listed marine protected area.
First Annotated Checklist of Birds of Jicarón and Jicarita: The Southernmost Islands of the Republic of Panama
A groundbreaking annotated checklist identifies 115 bird species on Jicarón and 53 on Jicarita, the southernmost islands of Panama's Coiba National Park. This marks the first comprehensive survey beyond Coiba Island, revealing 23 new records for the park, including 10 endemic subspecies and 29 migratory species—seven of which are warblers. The study highlights the conservation significance of these understudied islands, with the Brown-backed Dove, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, and Bananaquit emerging as dominant species. By addressing critical knowledge gaps in Panamanian island avifauna, this research underscores the ecological importance of Coiba's peripheral islands for biodiversity preservation.
Genome Mining, Microbial Interactions, and Molecular Networking Reveals New Dibromoalterochromides from Strains of Pseudoalteromonas of Coiba National Park-Panama
Researchers have identified two new dibromoalterochromides, compounds with potential antimicrobial properties, produced by strains of the marine bacterium Pseudoalteromonas found in Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection. The study employed genome mining, microbial interaction analyses, and molecular networking to uncover these novel molecules. By sequencing the genomes of six Pseudoalteromonas strains—three pigmented and three non-pigmented—the team discovered that pigmentation correlates with a higher diversity of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), particularly those encoding nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and polyketide synthases (PKS). These findings suggest that pigmented strains may possess greater metabolic versatility, offering new avenues for discovering bioactive compounds from marine microbial communities.
Bats and their Bat Flies: Community Composition and Host Specificity on a Pacific Island Archipelago
Coiba National Park, Panama's fourth-largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, harbors remarkable bat diversity with 39 species identified, despite limited study effort. This study reveals that the park's highly preserved forests support one of the highest bat species richness in Panama, with eight new species recorded. The research also documents 22 species of ectoparasitic bat flies (Diptera: Streblidae), all new records for the area, and notes a high host specificity of 98.2% among these parasites. Using mist nets and acoustic monitoring, the study identified 30 bat species from 904 captures and 751 recordings, with Artibeus jamaicensis and Carollia perspicillata being the most abundant, while Myotis nigricans, Saccopteryx leptura, and Molossus bondae were the most frequently recorded aerial insectivores. The findings suggest that Coiba's isolated yet well-preserved ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining high biodiversity.
Coral connectivity between equatorial eastern Pacific marine protected areas: A biophysical modeling approach
Marine protected areas (MPAs) in the equatorial eastern Pacific form a relatively well-connected network for coral reefs, with at least 40% of coral larvae annually settling within MPA boundaries. Critical hubs like Malpelo and Gorgona islands serve as stepping-stones between coastal and offshore MPAs, such as the Galapagos Islands, while Cocos Island exhibits low resilience potential. The study used a Lagrangian particle-tracking algorithm coupled with ocean-circulation modeling to assess connectivity under two pelagic larval duration (PLD) scenarios (40 and 130 days), revealing quasi-unidirectional larval flow from coastal to oceanic MPAs. Resilient MPAs, including Coiba and Malpelo, rely on subsidiary recruitment from coastal regions of Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. The findings underscore the importance of integrating coastal MPAs into regional conservation initiatives like the Marine Conservation Corridor of the Eastern Tropical Pacific (MCCETP) to ensure coral reef resilience.
Habitual stone-tool-aided extractive foraging in white-faced capuchins, Cebus capucinus
Researchers document the first instance of habitual stone-tool use in white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus imitator) within Coiba National Park, Panama. Unlike other gracile capuchin species, this population relies on hammerstone and anvil techniques to access structurally protected food items such as Terminalia catappa seeds, hermit crabs, marine snails, and terrestrial crabs—a behavior absent in related species but prevalent in robust capuchins (Sapajus). Camera trapping over a year revealed strong male-biased tool use; adult females, though present at foraging sites, were never observed using tools. The behavior persists year-round across multiple islands, with over half of identifiable individuals participating. The study suggests that high terrestrialism, reduced predation pressure, and potential resource limitation in the Coiba archipelago may drive this evolutionary adaptation, offering a unique model to investigate ecological and evolutionary factors shaping tool use.
How to estimate population size in crocodylians? Population ecology of American crocodiles in Coiba Island as study case
A minimum population size of ~112 non-hatchling American crocodiles was estimated on Coiba Island, Panama, revealing that traditional spotlight survey methods (Messel's and King's visible fraction estimations) significantly underestimate populations. The most robust estimate, ranging from 147 to 257 individuals, was derived using the POPAN mark–recapture method, accounting for sex and age groups. This study highlights critical biases in population estimation techniques and provides recommendations to improve accuracy. By comparing findings with other insular and coastal regions, it advances understanding of American crocodile ecology, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts at UNESCO World Heritage Site Coiba National Park.
Longest recorded trans-Pacific migration of a whale shark (Rhincodon typus)
A whale shark (Rhincodon typus) has been documented completing the longest recorded trans-Pacific migration, traveling over 20,000 kilometers from Coiba Island (Panama) to the Mariana Trench in the western Indo-Pacific. This female whale shark, tagged in Panama's Tropical Eastern Pacific, traversed the North Equatorial Current over 841 days, providing evidence of connectivity between ocean basins and potential migratory pathways into the Philippine Sea and South China Sea. The study utilized satellite tracking to map this unprecedented journey, offering new insights into the movement patterns and population dynamics of whale sharks across vast distances.
The marine natural product coibamide targets expression of HER family receptors
Coibamide, a cytotoxic N-methyl-stabilized depsipeptide isolated from a marine cyanobacterium within Coiba National Park, Panama, demonstrates exceptional potency and selectivity as a growth inhibitor for specific cancer cell types. This natural product, studied for its mechanism of action, selectively targets the ER secretory pathway and inhibits expression of HER family receptors with differential sensitivity (EGFR=HER3<). Initial testing in the NCI60 cancer cell line panel revealed pM to nM potency and histological selectivity for breast, CNS-derived tumors, ovarian, and colon cancer cells. The study highlights coibamide's potential as a drug lead for cancer treatment, leveraging its evolved ability to bind specific biological targets and reveal new aspects of cell signaling.
Coiban Agouti (Dasyprocta coibae) Density and Temporal Activity on Coiba Island, Veraguas, Panama
Research reveals that the Coiban agouti (Dasyprocta coibae), a vulnerable rodent endemic to Coiba Island, Panama, exhibits a population density of 73.3 individuals per square kilometer, positively correlated with primary forest cover. Camera trap surveys detected 2114 instances, indicating higher activity on government-maintained trails and during daylight hours (06:00–19:00), particularly in late May to early June. The study suggests that Coiba Island's habitat may be limiting for agoutis due to lower predation risk compared to related species in Central America. These findings underscore the effectiveness of camera traps for future population monitoring, providing critical data to guide conservation efforts and reassess the species' vulnerable status.
Distribution, size range and growth rates of hawksbill turtles at a major foraging ground in the eastern Pacific Ocean
Coiba National Park, Panama, is identified as one of the most significant foraging grounds for hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The study, conducted through six mark-recapture surveys between 2014 and 2017, captured and tagged 186 individuals, with 51 recaptured at least once. The size range of these turtles varied from 30.0 to 75.5 cm, predominantly comprising juveniles. Growth rates were highly variable, ranging from -0.78 to 7.1 cm per year, marking the first published growth data for juvenile hawksbills in this region. These findings highlight Coiba's critical role in supporting hawksbill populations and provide essential demographic insights for conservation strategies.
On the sensitivity of polarimetric SAR measurements to vegetation cover: the Coiba National Park, Panama
Polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) measurements significantly enhance vegetation cover classification accuracy, outperforming single-polarization and optical data. A study conducted at the UNESCO-listed Coiba National Park, Panama, demonstrated that polarimetric features derived from L-band SAR data improved land-cover mapping precision when compared to conventional methods. Classification performance varied notably with incidence angles, underscoring the importance of integrating multiple radar features for optimal results. This finding highlights the potential of polarimetric SAR in environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.
Scute Patterns as an Individual Identification Tool in an American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) Population on Coiba Island, Panama
Researchers have demonstrated that the unique scute patterns on the backs of American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) can serve as a reliable individual identification tool. By analyzing 110 wild-caught crocodiles from Coiba Island, Panama, they found significant variability in both the number and arrangement of dorsal scutes per individual. Using binary and coded analyses of transverse scute lines (TSL), they successfully identified each crocodile with high precision, requiring only the first 13 or 10 TSLs for accurate recognition. The probability of pattern repetition was extremely low—one in 49,504 for binary analysis and one in 3,333 for coded analysis—suggesting this method could uniquely identify every crocodile on Coiba Island, where the population is estimated at no more than 1,000 individuals. This study introduces a novel non-invasive approach for wildlife monitoring, particularly valuable for conservation efforts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Coiba National Park.
Macrocyclic marine natural products: leads in the drug discovery process for potential glioma therapeutics
Coiba National Park harbors a marine cyanobacterium that produces coibamide A, a unique depsipeptide with potential as a glioma therapeutic. This compound demonstrates exceptional potency and selectivity against glioblastoma cell lines, inducing G1 arrest and triggering cell death in vitro while significantly reducing tumor volume in vivo. Coibamide A also exhibits antiangiogenic properties by decreasing VEGFA and VEGFR2 expression, suggesting it targets the cellular secretory pathway. The study leverages a bioluminescence-based assay to screen compounds that inhibit this pathway, aiming to identify novel therapeutics for glioblastoma multiforme.
Medusamide A, a Panamanian Cyanobacterial Depsipeptide with Multiple β-Amino Acids
Researchers have discovered medusamide A, a novel cyclic depsipeptide from marine cyanobacteria collected in Coiba National Park, Panama. This compound is notable for containing four contiguous β-amino acid residues, specifically (2R,3R)-3-amino-2-methylhexanoic acid (Amha), marking the first report of multiple Amha residues within a single cyclic peptide-type natural product. The stereochemical assignment of these residues was achieved through synthesis of reference standards and derivatization with Marfey's reagent, followed by LC-MS analysis.
Depsipeptide Companeramides from a Panamanian Marine Cyanobacterium Associated with the Coibamide Producer
Researchers have identified two novel cyclic depsipeptides, companeramides A and B, derived from a marine cyanobacterium found in Coiba National Park, Panama. These compounds exhibit high nanomolar antiplasmodial activity, making them promising candidates for malaria treatment, while showing no significant cytotoxicity to human cancer cell lines at tested doses. The study employed NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, Marfey's methodology, and chiral-phase HPLC analysis to determine the planar structures and absolute configurations of the companeramides. This discovery builds on previous findings related to coibamide A, another potent toxin from the same cyanobacterial source.
Population Ecology of American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama
A balanced sex ratio with slight female dominance and dispersed population distribution were observed for the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama. Females were marginally larger than males (115.1 ± 56.9 cm vs. 105.4 ± 71.8 cm). Encounter rates varied annually, peaking at 1.8 ind/km in 2009 and showing a correlation with protected areas. The study, conducted through nocturnal surveys covering 147.2 km over 99 nights from 2009–2012, captured 185 crocodiles across 581.12 km² of habitat—78% natural (mangroves, beaches) and 22% disturbed. Spatial analysis revealed habitat loss due to agricultural conversion but no significant population decline. The findings underscore the need for long-term monitoring to differentiate natural fluctuations from anthropogenic impacts on crocodile ecology.
Reproductive Ecology and Hatchling Growth Rates of the American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) on Coiba Island, Panama
American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) populations on Coiba Island, Panama, experience dramatic declines in hatchling survival within the first two months post-hatching, with only 0.5% remaining by December. This study, the first to assess nest-site characteristics and estimate hatchling survival in a Pacific population, found that while hatching success was high at 88.9%, environmental factors such as soil composition (high potassium and manganese) and nest location (30% under forest canopies, 70% exposed) significantly influenced growth rates (0.03–0.16 cm/day). The research examined 10 nests across three localities from January to December 2013, revealing critical insights into reproductive ecology that could inform conservation strategies for this vulnerable species.
Ácaros oribátidos (Acari: Oribatei) del Parque Nacional de la isla de Coiba, Panamá
A groundbreaking inventory of oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatei) from Coiba National Park, Panama, reveals 134 species, including eight new records for the Neotropical Region and multiple first records for Panama. This study, part of a broader flora and fauna survey, identified 1053 individuals from soil samples collected in July 1998, significantly expanding our understanding of this biodiversity hotspot within UNESCO's World Heritage Site. Notably, two new taxa were described: Aeroppia mariehammerae n. nom. for Aeroppia sp., and a proposed new combination, Protoribates antillensis (Mahunka, 1985) n. comb. The findings highlight Coiba's ecological significance while contributing critical data for conservation efforts in this marine-protected area.
Orbiniidae polychaetes (Polychaeta: Scolecida) from Coiba Island, eastern Pacific of Panama, with description of a new species
Researchers have identified a new species of polychaete worm, Orbinia oligopapillata, within the Orbiniidae family, found in the mangrove systems and tidal flats of Coiba National Park, Panama. This discovery is notable for its unique morphological traits, including 15-16 thoracic chaetigers with distinct uncini rows and specialized abdominal parapodia. Additionally, the study describes a specimen from the genus Leitoscoloplos exhibiting rare lateral pouches on its abdominal chaetigers, a brooding structure previously documented in only two species of Scoloplos. The research involved sampling at three intertidal levels across two mangrove sites during February and November 1997. These findings expand the understanding of polychaete biodiversity in the eastern Pacific and highlight the ecological significance of Coiba National Park's marine environments.
Survival, growth, and recruitment of octocoral species (Coelenterata: Octocorallia) in Coiba National Park, Pacific Panama
A significant population decline of 25.2% was observed among octocoral species in Coiba National Park over one year, highlighting the vulnerability of these organisms in tropical eastern Pacific reefs. The study, the first to examine the population dynamics of 10 shallow-water octocoral species across six genera, revealed distinct survival and recruitment strategies: Leptogorgia alba exhibited r-selected traits with high abundance and mortality, while Muricea austera showed K-selected characteristics with low mortality and recruitment rates. Researchers monitored 1445 colonies over 17 months at 20 m depth in four coral communities, calculating size distribution, survivorship, growth, and recruitment rates. Species were clustered into two groups based on distribution, density, mortality, and recruitment patterns, offering insights into their ecological roles and resilience.
A New Species of the Genus Eugorgia (Cnidaria: Octocorallia: Gorgoniidae) from Mesophotic Reefs in the Eastern Pacific
Researchers have identified a new species of octocoral, Eugorgia siedenburgae, from the mesophotic reefs off Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection. This discovery, made using submersible technology at Hannibal Bank—a seamount near Panama—highlights the biodiversity of understudied deep-reef environments (40–150 m). The species is distinguished by its bushy, multiplanar, bicolored colony and unique sclerite characteristics, expanding the known diversity of the genus Eugorgia to 13. The study employed morphological analysis and scanning electron microscopy to document this fragile yet critical component of mesophotic ecosystems.
Eastern Pacific reef fish responses to coral recovery following El Niño disturbances
A long-term study at Uva Island reef, within Coiba National Park, revealed that coral recovery following El Niño disturbances significantly influenced reef fish community structure. Despite no direct fish mortalities during the 1982-1983 and 1997-1998 El Niño events, live coral cover plummeted to nearly 0% before steadily recovering to ~35% by 2010. Fish species richness peaked at 15-20% coral cover but declined as cover increased further. Benthic invertivores showed a parabolic increase in density, peaking at ~20% live coral cover, while mixed diet feeders declined with rising coral cover. Facultative corallivores exhibited an asymptotic relationship with coral cover, suggesting trophic resource availability drives fish community dynamics during reef recovery.
Santacruzamate A, a Potent and Selective Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor from the Panamanian Marine Cyanobacterium cf. Symploca sp.
Researchers discovered santacruzamate A, a potent and selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor derived from a marine cyanobacterium collected in Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Panama's Pacific coast. This compound, structurally similar to suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), demonstrates picomolar-level inhibition of HDAC2 while sparing other Class II HDACs like HDAC4 and HDAC6. The study involved phylogenetic analysis confirming the cyanobacterium as a potential new genus, followed by chemical fractionation to isolate santacruzamate A. Synthetic analogs were also developed, including a hybrid molecule combining features of both compounds, to evaluate HDAC activity and specificity. This discovery highlights the therapeutic potential of marine-derived natural products in targeting specific HDAC isoforms for disease treatment.
Sílidos (Syllidae: Polychaeta) del Parque Nacional de Coiba (Pacífico, Panamá)
A study of soft-bottom habitats in Coiba National Park, Panama, uncovered 19 interstitial species of syllid polychaetes (Annelida), including two new records for the Pacific Ocean and five new to Panama. Notably, Exogone (Exogone) longicornis exhibited triangular subterminal processes not previously documented, while Syllis botosaneanui was observed as viviparous for the first time. Additionally, a single specimen of an undetermined Syllis species, characterized by a long pharynx, dorsal prostomial lobes, and unique compound chaetae, was identified but not formally described due to insufficient data.
Discovery and development of Santacruzamate A, a potent and selective histone deacetylase inhibitor
Researchers discovered santacruzamate A, a potent and selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor with picomolar-level inhibition of HDAC2, during an expedition to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Panama. This compound shares structural similarities with Vorinostat®, a clinically approved HDAC inhibitor for treating refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Bioactivity-guided fractionation led to its isolation from a dark brown cyanobacterium, potentially representing a new genus within marine cyanobacteria. The study also established a robust synthesis method for santacruzamate A and synthesized analogs to further evaluate their biological activity.
Population dynamics and community structure of octocoral species (coelesterate: anthozoa: octocorallia) at Coiba National park, pacific Panama
A significant natural population decline of octocorals was observed across all study sites in Coiba National Park, Pacific Panama, without altering the overall community structure. However, distinct recovery trajectories were noted following anthropogenic disturbances. The study employed ecological descriptors like Rényi diversity profiles and Rank Abundance Distribution (RAD) plots to analyze community changes, alongside ordination analysis of similarities and abundance spectrums to assess disturbance impacts. This research highlights octocorals' resilience to population decline but varying recovery dynamics post-disturbance, underscoring their ecological importance in the Tropical Eastern Pacific.
Population Genetics of the American Crocodile in Coiba National Park, Panama
A genetic analysis of the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama, revealed three spatially overlapping genetic clusters across eight localities, indicating fine-scale population subdivisions. The study, which analyzed 143 individuals using highly polymorphic microsatellite loci, found an average of 6.8 alleles per locus with a total of 61 alleles reported. These findings suggest that the Panamanian government should incorporate this genetic structure data into conservation programs to better protect the species within the park. The research highlights the importance of population genetics in informing conservation strategies for threatened or endangered species.
Population Study of Coiba Howler Monkeys (Alouatta CoibensisCoibensis) and Coiba Capuchin Monkeys (Cebus Capucinus Imitator), Coiba Island National Park, Republic of Panama
A population study of Coiba howler monkeys (Alouatta coibensis coibensis) and capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus imitator) on Coiba Island, Panama, revealed distinct demographic patterns. Howler monkey populations totaled 472 individuals across 109 groups, averaging 4.3 members per group, while capuchin populations numbered 626 individuals in 58 groups, with an average of 10.75 members per group. These findings suggest potential dietary constraints for howler monkeys, possibly related to seasonal fruit availability, whereas the broader diet of capuchins—including arthropods and seeds—may support higher survivorship rates. Conducted over two field seasons (2009–2010) using vocalization triangulation and strip-transect censuses, this study highlights the need for continued monitoring to understand the dynamics and behavioral adaptations of these primates in their island habitat, despite the absence of direct hunting threats.
Cytotoxic Veraguamides, Alkynyl Bromide-Containing Cyclic Depsipeptides from the Marine Cyanobacterium cf. Oscillatoria margaritifera
Researchers have discovered a family of cytotoxic cyclodepsipeptides, veraguamides A-C and H-L, from the marine cyanobacterium cf. Oscillatoria margaritifera collected in Coiba National Park, Panama. These compounds exhibit potent cytotoxicity against human lung cancer cells, with veraguamide A showing an LD50 of 141 nM. The structures were elucidated using advanced NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry techniques. Notably, four veraguamides (A, B, K, L) contain a rare alkynyl bromide functionality, previously observed in only one other marine natural product, jamaicamide A. This discovery highlights the potential of Coiba's marine biodiversity for developing novel cancer therapies.
Pacifigorgia marviva(Anthozoa: Octocorallia) a new species from Coiba National Park, Pacific Panama
A new species of shallow-water gorgonian coral, Pacifigorgia marviva, has been discovered in Coiba National Park, Pacific Panama. This species is characterized by its white to cream, small, erect colonies with 1–4 fronds, short or absent stems, and sparsely distributed polyp mounds. Morphological analysis and scanning electron microscopy revealed unique sclerite structures, including long spindles and thin anthocodial rods. The discovery increases the diversity of Pacifigorgia species to 35, with 20 found in Panama, representing 57% of the genus in the eastern Pacific. This finding highlights the rich biodiversity of Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection.
The Panama microplate, island studies and relictual species of Melipona ( Melikerria ) (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini)
A new species of stingless bee, Melipona (Melikerria) insularis, has been discovered on Coiba and Ranchería Islands in Pacific Panama, alongside a proposed sister species, M. ambigua, from northeast Colombia. The study reveals that the poor fauna diversity on Coiba Island, including social bees, amphibians, and birds, suggests historical habitat barriers that prevented recolonization during glacial periods. Melipona insularis is identified as a relictual species isolated on accreted terranes of Coiba rainforest within the Panama microplate, with its distribution supported by phylogenetic hypotheses indicating disjunct patterns. The research also highlights the potential for taxon cycles and rafting colonies to facilitate recolonization, offering insights into the biogeographical history of Melipona bees in Central America.
Variation in reef fish and invertebrate communities with level of protection from fishing across the Eastern Tropical Pacific seascape
Overfishing in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) has significantly altered reef ecosystems, with poorly enforced marine protected areas (MPAs) failing to mitigate these impacts. Research across seven large MPAs, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Coiba National Park and Galapagos, revealed that high-protection MPAs exhibit greater biomass of predatory fishes, lower densities of urchins, and higher coral cover compared to fished zones. These findings suggest that fishing down the food web has led to trophic cascades, reducing coral cover by increasing habitat-modifying macroinvertebrates. Notably, continental reefs show more pronounced effects than oceanic islands, highlighting regional differences in ecological resilience.
Nuevos género y especie de la familia Lethaxonidae (Acari, Parasitengona, Hydrachnidia) de la isla de Coiba (Panamá)
A new genus and species, Transitia carlosi, from the Lethaxonidae family of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) has been discovered in the intersticial environment of a small river on Coiba Island, Panama. This finding expands the known biodiversity of the region with its unique morphological traits, including an elongated body shape, three linearly arranged pairs of acetabula, and distinct male gonopore positioning relative to genital acetabula. The study also highlights slight sexual dimorphism in male leg structure. The research involved a morphological review of adult specimens, providing new insights into the taxonomy and diversity of Lethaxonidae mites in Central America's freshwater ecosystems.
The importance of beta diversity in local gall-inducing arthropod distribution
Research on gall-inducing arthropods in Coiba National Park, Panama, reveals that these species exhibit strong beta diversity, meaning their distribution is highly variable across different sites rather than being uniformly spread. This finding challenges the assumption that geographic distance correlates with similarity in species composition, which has implications for estimating global galling species richness and testing hypotheses about their distribution patterns. The study used field observations to document local arthropod galling species richness and analyzed their spatial distribution, highlighting the importance of beta diversity in understanding biodiversity dynamics in tropical ecosystems.
Variation in cytochrome-b haplotypes suggests a new species of Zygodontomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae) endemic to Isla Coiba, Panama
A previously undescribed species of sigmodontine rodent, endemic to Isla Coiba in Panama's Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection, has been identified through mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene analysis. Phylogenetic studies revealed two distinct clades within the genus Zygodontomys: one unique to Isla Coiba and another shared by populations from Isla Cébaco and the mainland Peninsula Azuero, as well as a Venezuelan sequence. This discovery suggests that the rodent population on Isla Coiba represents a novel species, highlighting the island's significant biodiversity. The research compared cytochrome-b sequences from 16 specimens across these regions to related species in GenBank, providing genetic evidence for this taxonomic distinction.
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