Deep Reefs of the Far East with UNSEEN Expeditions
DISCOVERY Yacht Northern Sun
Banda Sea, Indonesia
September 21, 2024- October 10, 2024
Leadership
Research Team
- Julien Leblond (Marine Biologist/Scientific Diver)
- Gonzalo Pérez-Rosales Blanch (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
- Priska Widyastuti (UNSEEN)
- Jefry Daniel Sarimanella (Un Patti)
- Muhamad Fajrin M. Rahayaan (Un Patti)
Project Overview
The purpose of this expedition was to explore, study and document one of Earth's least known natural habitats: Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems which are found at depths of 40-150 metres in tropical and sub-tropical countries. These ecosystems also have potential to provide important refuge to the threats facing the shallow water coral ecosystems.
Duration of the Project
2.5 weeks from September 21st, 2024 to October 10th, 2024
Expedition Summary
From the 21st of September to the 10th of October, The International SeaKeepers Society South Pacific supported a 2.5-week expedition aboard DY Northern Sun. This mission was led by UNSEEN in collaboration with Pattimura University in Ambon. The team at UNSEEN has the unique experience and skills in mesophotic research and technical diving in Indonesia. Utilizing closed-circuit rebreathers and mixed-gas diving techniques, the team safely explored and studied mesophotic reefs at depths of 100–140 meters. The group included technical divers, marine biologists, oceanographers, and mesophotic coral reef scientists.
Before the expedition commenced, DY Northern Sun equipped their tender with a WASSP multibeam echo sounder. This advanced technology enabled high-resolution seafloor mapping, significantly enhancing dive site selection. Given the team’s ability to perform only one dive per day, this tool was invaluable for pinpointing the optimal dive location for their intensive 4–5 hour explorations.
Meanwhile, researchers from Pattimura University conducted shallow water reef surveys at depths of 8 meters to assess the diversity and health of coral reefs in remote, previously uncharted areas. Their work has established a crucial baseline of data that will support ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts in the region.
Thanks to DY Northern Sun, the team at UNSEEN and Pattimura University, were able to spend 20 days at sea in remote parts of Indonesia, contributing to the understanding and protection of these extraordinary coral reef ecosystems.
Application
This expedition aims to deepen our understanding of these mesophotic reef habitats, enhance knowledge of coral reef biodiversity, and advance efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.
Locations
Indonesia
Partner Sites
Partner Logo
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