Scientists find ‘pristine’ ocean mountain range with 50 unknown species

Primnoid corals observed along a transect on the eastern flank of an unexplored and unregistered seamount within the national jurisdiction of Chile, east of Motu Motiro Hiva, an uninhabited island. Credit: ROV SuBastian / Schmidt Ocean Institute

“The observation of distinct ecosystems on individual seamounts highlights the importance of protecting the entire ridge, not just a few seamounts. We hope the data collected from this expedition will help establish new marine protected areas, including on the high seas on the Salas y Gómez Ridge,” said chief scientist Erin E Easton of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, in a press statement.

The ridge has over 110 seamounts and it supports the migration of many marine animals like whales, sea turtles, swordfish, tuna and sharks. 78,000 square metres were mapped by the scientists during the expedition. This includes six seamounts that have not yet been documented in hydrographic surveys.

“The astonishing habitats and animal communities that we have unveiled during these two expeditions constitute a dramatic example of how little we know about this remote area. These expeditions will help alert decision-makers about the ecological importance of the areas and contribute to strengthening protection strategies within and beyond jurisdictional waters,” added Javier Sellanes of the Universidad Católica del Norte in a press statement.

The Salas y Gómez Ridge is one of the many global locations under consideration for being designated as high seas marine protected area upon the ratificiation of the UN High Seas Treaty. India is yet to sign the treaty but many countries, including the United States, have signed the treaty. Once 60 nations ratify the treaty, countries can start establishing marine protected areas in international waters with enough scientific data.