In the waters off La Gomera, Canary Islands, a multidisciplinary team of scientists from CNRS (France), the University of Bologna (Italy), and Ecoaqua (University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain) embarked on a mission to collect samples of sponges, black corals, and gorgonians.
Exploring Shallow and Deep Waters
The four-day expedition was meticulously planned and included two dives per day. The work was divided into two teams, each with a specific focus:
- Shallow Zone Team: Prof. Federica Costantini (University of Bologna) and Alessandro Piazza (PhD student) conducted dives to a depth of 30 metres. Their work focused on studying gorgonian species like Leptogorgia viminalis and Leptogorgia ruberrima.
- Mesophotic Zone Team: Dr. Lorenzo Bramanti (CNRS – LECOB) and Prof. Francisco Otero Ferrer (University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) explored depths of up to 70 metres using closed circuit rebreathers (CCR). These dives required careful planning due to extended bottom times and long decompression stops, with strong currents adding to the complexity of operations.
Despite logistical challenges, collaboration with local divers and diving centres was pivotal to the team’s success.
From Diving to Data: The Hard Work Behind the Scenes
Diving is just the beginning of the scientific process. Each evening, the team devoted hours to processing and preserving the collected samples. In a makeshift lab near the dive site, they meticulously cleaned and prepared coral and sponge specimens for further analysis. This demanding post-dive routine was essential to ensure data integrity.
One of the most striking moments of the expedition was the collection of Leptogorgia viminalis. A photo captured during this activity illustrates the detailed and careful approach needed to study these delicate organisms.
Laying the Groundwork for Restoration
The primary goal of the expedition was to gather data on the distribution, abundance, and population structure of gorgonians and black corals. Understanding these ecological parameters is critical for designing effective restoration protocols. This work aligns with OCEAN CITIZEN’s mission to ensure that restoration efforts are grounded in scientific knowledge, avoiding the pitfalls of poorly informed interventions.
Additionally, sponge samples were collected to test an innovative Environmental DNA (eDNA) protocol. This cutting-edge method allows for non-invasive biodiversity monitoring by analysing genetic material present in the water.
What Comes Next?
The fieldwork contributes to Work Package 2 (WP2) of OCEAN CITIZEN, which focuses on developing restoration strategies informed by natural ecosystem dynamics. Over the coming months, the samples will be analysed in laboratories, with findings shaping protocols for restoring key marine habitats around Tenerife.
A Science-Driven Vision for the Future
OCEAN CITIZEN exemplifies the necessity of combining field research with scientific rigour to create sustainable solutions. Restoration efforts that overlook the ecological intricacies of marine habitats risk wasting time, resources, and opportunities. This project’s comprehensive approach ensures that interventions are effective, scalable, and beneficial for the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
By emphasising the principle of “understand first, then restore,” OCEAN CITIZEN is setting a new standard for marine conservation and restoration. Stay tuned for more updates as we explore the science and solutions that will shape the future of our oceans.
