PANAMA CENTER FOR TROPICAL ISLAND BIODIVERSITY STUDIES LOCATION RESEARCH THEMES CORE SKILLS Bocas del Toro Archipelago Climate change impacts Marine protected areas Rainforest biodiversity Tourism impacts Ecosystem health Community livelihoods and perceptions Species identification Underwater transects & quadrats Tourism impact assessment Scientific writing & communication Basic Spanish language Research presentation Research design and implementation Data collection and analysis WWW.FIELDSTUDIES.ORG/PANAMA OVERVIEW PUT TROPICAL PARADISE IN PERSPECTIVE Covered in lush rainforests, hundreds of mangrove islands, and coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, the Bocas del Toro Archipelago serves as a living laboratory for studying tropical biodiversity. This chain of islands is populated by everything from hummingbirds and howler monkeys to stingrays, dolphins, sloths, and brightly colored poison dart frogs. At first glance, Bocas is nothing short of paradise. However, climate change and increased tourism on the islands have led to ecosystem and natural resource degradation while also threatening Indigenous islanders’ traditional livelihoods. Our research on the environmental impacts of tourism and development on the natural ecosystems in Bocas provides the community with data necessary to support more sustainable policies and protect the beautiful islands so many call home. LIFE AT THE CENTER The Center, once a beachfront hotel, lies among the slender palms and warm waters of Isla Colón. You’ll take your classes over the waves of the Caribbean and among the surrounding rainforests and reefs. The laid-back tourist hub of Bocas Town is a short taxi ride away, with access to shops, restaurants, and a vibrant culture that is as unique as the mix of people who live here. Dorm living in fourperson bunkrooms Air-conditioned student lounge, lab, and staff offices Swimming pool, kayaking, and paddleboarding Classroom on a sheltered dock above the ocean Casual al-fresco dining area, and on-site cooking staff Volleyball, spikeball, and beachfront hammocks 22 The School for Field Studies