On 7 September, 26 scientists set off on the Gorringe Blue Ocean Expedition with the aim of deepening scientific knowledge about the largest submarine in Western Europe. At 5,000 metres high and located around 200km from Cabo de São Vicente, Algarve, the team intends to contribute to its classification as a Marine Protected Area (MPA), thus supporting Portugal's goal of protecting 30% of marine areas by 2030.
Seven researchers from CCMAR (Centre for Marine Sciences) are among the participants. They play an essential role in the study and conservation of this marine ecosystem, including mapping habitats and assessing marine biodiversity.
Our impact and contribution
Researching the Gorringe region is essential not only to increase scientific knowledge but also to support the sustainable management of Portugal's natural heritage. ‘Our work will make a valuable contribution to our knowledge of the oceans and, in particular, this unique underwater mountain,’ says Jorge Gonçalves. The data collected will enable the Portuguese government to implement an appropriate management plan to protect the habitats and biodiversity of the Gorringe, which is part of the Natura 2000 Network, a network of protected areas at European level.
The Gorringe Blue Ocean expedition promises to reveal new secrets of this underwater ecosystem, providing a solid basis for the protection of this natural habitat. In addition to the scientific report, a documentary film will be produced highlighting the riches of this area, raising public awareness of the importance of preserving it.
Our Researchers and their role in the expedition
The expedition aims to answer several fundamental questions about the Gorringe ecosystem. Some of the questions our researchers intend to answer with the data collected are: ‘How are the habitats distributed in depth? What are the endemic and vulnerable species in this ecosystem? What are the conservation priorities? How extensive are the priority habitats?’
Using a combination of techniques, ranging from scientific diving to the use of ROVs to map habitats between 50 and 200 metres deep, the scientists hope to fill in the gaps in knowledge about this oceanic oasis.
Led by Jorge Gonçalves, coordinator of the habitat mapping and the remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the team is focused in documenting and analysing the ecosystems that exist in the depths of the Gorringe.
Gonçalves' team includes Luís Bentes, Pedro Monteiro and Frederico Oliveira, who are collaborating on mapping priority habitats for conservation, such as coral gardens and kelp forests.
In the field of biodiversity, Professor Estér Serrão, coordinator of biodiversity assessments through scientific diving, is leading the efforts to carry out species surveys in the shallowest areas of the Gorringe. Serrão and her team, which includes Márcio Coelho, are collecting images and samples of organisms for taxonomic and genetic analysis’. The aim is to carry out an exhaustive taxonomic and genetic survey of the bottom's biological communities, especially sensitive and threatened species,’ say the researchers.
On the other hand, Magda Frade, co-coordinator of the seabird study, is collaborating with the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) to map the distribution and abundance of birds that use the Gorringe as a stopping point on their migratory routes.
The expedition, which runs until 28 September, is promoted by the Oceano Azul Foundation, Oceanário de Lisboa, the Portuguese Government, ICNF and the Portuguese Navy, with the collaboration of various scientific institutions such as CCMAR, the University of Algarve and the Hydrographic Institute.