Research led by Teresa Amaro (CESAM/DBio) has produced the first comprehensive ecological baseline of mesophotic coral ecosystems in Cabo Verde, documenting black coral and gorgonian forests and identifying key habitat-forming species. The findings, published in Progress in Oceanography, support improved conservation planning.

Building on this work, a first biodiversity assessment of mesophotic black coral forests on Santo Antão revealed diverse benthic and fish communities, including endemic species, and highlighted the vulnerability of these ecosystems.

Together, these studies provide essential scientific evidence to inform marine protection and policy in Cabo Verde.

Read the full article on the CESAM website: here.

Picture Credit: CESAM