The new species of amphipods discovered in the black coral forests of the Canary Islands is “from another world” | Canaryasenred

Recent advances in the field of marine biology Canary Islands It has captured the attention of the international scientific community. A study conducted by Sandra Navarro Mayoral, a doctoral student at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), has resulted in the discovery of a new genus and species of amphipods in the black coral forests of the Canary Archipelago. Published in Prestigious magazine “Coral Reefs”This discovery has been highlighted as a transcendent advance in understanding marine ecosystems.

The study is part of B-Enchanted ProjectShe focused on research in the black coral forests of the Canary Islands, under the supervision of Dr. Francisco Otero Ferrer, a researcher in the Biodiversity and Conservation Group (Biocon) at the University Research Institute for Sustainable Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems (Ecoaqua) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. ULPGC. The discovery, made in deep waters near Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote, revealed that the new amphipods play an important role in black coral colonies, with an unprecedented abundance of these structures.

The coasts of the Canary Islands are a unique ecosystem

The meticulous assembly work was carried out at a depth of 65 meters below sea level in the area known as Girl’s beachUsing deep diving techniques that minimized the impact on coral reefs. This pioneering methodology not only preserved the marine environment, but also facilitated direct observation of previously unknown interactions between black corals and various associated crustaceans.

This type of Double-legged, which is barely one millimeter in size, indicates a symbiotic relationship with black coral, which could indicate hitherto unprecedented ecological dynamics in these ecosystems. The importance of this discovery lies not only in its contribution to knowledge of marine biodiversity, but also in its ability to reveal unknown mechanisms of interaction between species in the oceans.

Dr. Otero Ferrer, whose specialty includes studying species considered to be “ecosystem engineers,” noted that the identification of this new genus of amphipods could have profound implications for understanding ecological interactions and marine biodiversity. The identification of these new species contributes significantly to marine science and provides new perspectives on processes environmental That sustain life in the oceans.

In addition to its scientific impact in the Canary Islands, the study highlights the importance of collaborative research and the use of advanced technologies in exploring marine ecosystems. EquaquaDeep Life, in cooperation with the international organization Deep Life, is expanding its research to other regions of the world, including the Caribbean, the Arctic and the Mediterranean. The goal is to gain a broader and more detailed understanding of biodiversity and ecological processes occurring in different marine contexts.

This discovery in the Canary Islands not only highlights the richness and complexity of the Canary Islands’ marine ecosystems, but also underscores the global importance of the research being conducted in these waters. By revealing unknown species and ecological relationships, these types of studies play a crucial role in conserving and sustaining ocean biodiversity, while providing crucial evidence for decision-making in conservation and natural resource management.

The result was reported in ‘Coral reefs’ It is a testament to the continuing advances in marine knowledge and demonstrates how scientific research can shed light on little-known aspects of the natural world, and offer new tools and strategies for its conservation and management. The B-Charmed project, although already concluded, leaves a legacy of collaboration and scientific exploration that will continue to inspire future research in marine biology in the Canary Islands.