The Governing Council declared of general interest the work that will be carried out for 21 days by a expedition of 50 experts who will identify and catalog new marine species in danger of extinction in the waters of Tenerife. Called taxonomic research of the marine fauna of Canary Islandsthis project is promoted by the international Ocean Census program, at the initiative of the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Government of the Canary Islands.
The objective is to attract internationally renowned scientists to carry out exhaustive research on the rich and diverse marine fauna that characterizes the waters of the Canary Archipelago. To do this, an important expedition will be carried out on the coasts of Tenerife, through dives with the employment of a submarine and divers at more than 50 meters deep, in areas not yet studied, in order to (until December 17) catalog new marine species at risk of extinction.
Coordinated by international foundations The Nippon Foundation and Nektona significant investment of economic funds will be carried out for the implementation of this pioneering project.
The Governing Council considered that the Ocean Censusinternationally recognized for its dedication to the exploration and understanding of waters around the world, is relevant for the Islands, since it is postulated as a gateway for other similar projects, placing the international focus on the rich natural heritage of the Canary Islands.
Likewise, the quality and magnitude of this expedition and the future results derived from it were valued. Vitally important data that will allow advances in the knowledge of regional marine biodiversity, based on the precise identification of species, the evaluation of their habitats and behaviors, as well as the establishment of effective conservation strategies. It will also provide new information to the network of marine taxonomy experts in the Macaronesian region, contributing to global scientific knowledge.
For all these reasons, the Government of the Canary Islands stated its commitment and collaboration with research, which promotes the preservation and understanding of marine biodiversity in the Canary Islands.
