Caribbean-Led Expedition Explores Deep Sea Offshore Trinidad and Tobago

Marine scientists from Trinidad and Tobago have conducted the first locally led and most comprehensive deep-sea survey of the islands' surrounding ocean aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel. During the month-long July expedition, the team located over 25 active cold seeps, discovered 20 suspected new species, and mapped approximately 13 percent of the country's marine territory. Led by marine biologist Dr Diva Amon and composed largely of Trinbagonian scientists, the mission aimed to document rare ecosystems and guide local conservation efforts.

 

Details of the Expedition

 

The expedition marked a significant national first. It was the first locally led deep-sea survey of the islands. It was also the most comprehensive such survey to date. The work took place aboard a Schmidt Ocean Institute research vessel. The month-long expedition ran in July.

The mission achieved substantial results. The team located over 25 active cold seeps. It discovered 20 suspected new species. It also mapped approximately 13 percent of the country's marine territory. These outcomes represent a major advance in national ocean knowledge.

 

The Species Discoveries

 

The expedition uncovered numerous potential new species. The suspected new species included a notable octopus. This was first observed during a 2014 expedition. Scientists lacked the data to confirm it then. The latest expedition provided the data needed for confirmation.

The discoveries spanned diverse marine life. The team found corals and carnivorous sponges. Squat lobsters were also among the finds. Over 700 specimens were collected in total. These will be housed at a university museum in Trinidad and Tobago.

 

The Cold Seep Ecosystems

 

The expedition focused significantly on cold seeps. The team mapped over 11,335 square kilometres of seafloor. This data helped locate 219 bubble streams. These streams indicate possible cold-seep sites. The team then visually confirmed 25 cold seep ecosystems.

Cold seeps support unusual forms of life. They are powered by chemical energy such as methane. This bubbles up from the ocean floor. Chemosynthetic bacteria support life there rather than sunlight. This sustains mussels, clams and tubeworms in these habitats.

 

Read More: New Zealand Opens Marine Reserves With Groundbreaking Māori Co-Management

 

Scientific Innovations and Encounters

 

The expedition tested new preservation methods. The team trialled a novel cryoprotectant for tissues. This freezes tissue without damaging it. This differs from methods like liquid nitrogen. It ensures specimens retain their biological integrity.

The team also documented rare natural events. They encountered a rare manta ray fall on the seafloor. This carcass provided food for deep-sea animals. They also filmed a black swallower fish with a distended stomach. At least 54 species never before seen in national waters were observed.

 

Significance for Conservation

 

The expedition serves clear conservation goals. All data collected will contribute to marine governance. This includes spatial planning efforts within the country. It will support the establishment of marine protected areas. This connects the science directly to policy.

The findings deepen understanding of what is at stake. The chief scientist emphasised this conservation value. Every discovery strengthens stewardship of the deep sea. However, the team also found human-made trash. This reminded them that human impacts reach even unexplored places.

 

Building Local Capacity

 

The expedition emphasised local leadership. It was composed largely of Trinbagonian scientists. This demonstrated Caribbean scientific capability. The chief scientist highlighted this as proof of local capacity. She stressed that Caribbean scientists can explore their own waters.

The mission also engaged the wider public. The team engaged over 2,000 people during the expedition. This used the institute's Ship-to-Shore programme. It reached students, universities and government officials. Over 1,000 more were reached through in-person visits before the expedition.