Central America echinoderms: Diversity, ecology and future perspectives

Abstract

Central America is a region with a high biological diversity, not only in its terrestrial part, but also in its marine component. This is the result of a rich geological history that has caused the exchange and isolation of fauna and flora. The richness of ecosystems and coastal morphologies allow the presence of various groups of organisms, and among them are the echinoderms. Investigation of echinoderms in the region goes back to 1867 when the first publication appeared. Research on echinoderms in Central America can be divided into two periods. The first period consists mainly of expeditions from Europe and the United States (1860-1960). The second period involved the formation of local scientists and the establishment of research centers in the region (1960-present). Two hundred and twenty-nine publications have been published on Central America echinoderms. The majority focused on ecology, taxonomy and evolution. Panama, Belize and Costa Rica are the countries where most of the research has been done. In this chapter we reviewe and describe the most important results of those investigations, with the exception of Panama, which is considered by Coppard and Alvarado (Chapter 4). Four hundred and sixteen species of echinoderms are reported, 214 species in the Caribbean and 207 species in the Pacific. Ophiuroidea is the most diverse class with 123 species, followed by Echinoidea (94 species), Asteroidea (80 species), Holothuroidea (80 species), and Crinoidea (18 species). The number of species is approximately 6 % of the total known echinoderms worldwide. Most of the investigations have been focused on echinoids and ophiuroids, with very little work on the other groups. The main threats to this phylum are environmentaal deteriorations by natural processes, and above all, by rapid coastal development. In addition, illegal fishing, by-catch and the lack of protection and coordination from the authorities are affecting the sea cucumbers and sea stars populations. An increase in research is recommended for Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua, through programs of regional exchange and by the development of specialists in each one of these countries. Moreover, emphasis must be given to developing new lines of research to fill the gaps in knowledge of various groups and ecosystems.