What's Happening?
Scientists from the California Academy of Sciences (CAS) have potentially discovered up to 20 new species in the ocean's 'twilight zone' near Guam. This discovery was part of a two-week expedition where researchers collected 2,000 specimens and recorded
100 species for the first time in the region. The twilight zone, located at depths between 100 and 490 feet, is a challenging environment to study due to the limited time divers can spend there. The team used autonomous reef monitoring structures (ARMS) to collect biodiversity and temperature data over several years. These ARMS act as artificial reefs, attracting various marine organisms, and have provided a long-term snapshot of deep reef biodiversity. The researchers also gathered three years of temperature data from the upper twilight zone, offering valuable insights into the effects of climate change on deeper ocean layers.
Why It's Important?
The findings from this expedition are significant as they enhance the understanding of mesophotic reefs, which are often overlooked and underappreciated. These reefs were once thought to be refuges for species affected by climate change, but recent studies indicate they are also under threat from human activities such as fishing and pollution. The data collected will help conservation managers develop strategies to protect these ecosystems. By establishing an ecological baseline, scientists aim to safeguard the unique and diverse life forms in the twilight zone before they face further environmental changes. This research underscores the importance of deep-sea exploration in understanding and preserving marine biodiversity.
What's Next?
The expedition marks the beginning of a two-year process to retrieve 76 ARMS deployed across the Pacific, including locations like Palau, French Polynesia, and the Marshall Islands. The goal is to create the world's most comprehensive baseline of upper twilight zone biodiversity and to gain further insights into thermal conditions at these depths. The ongoing research will provide critical data to inform conservation efforts and policy decisions aimed at protecting deep reef ecosystems. As DNA analysis of the collected specimens continues, the number of new species discoveries is expected to increase, further contributing to the understanding of marine biodiversity.
