Argentine scientists embark towards the depths of the ocean with the aim of unraveling its mysteries. A team from the CONICET, part of the Argentine Deep Sea Studies Group (GEMPA), will join the new international expedition aboard the vessel Falkor (too). This initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Schmidt Ocean Institute of the United States, following the success of the “Continental Slope IV: Submarine Oases of the Mar del Plata Canyon” campaign.
Exploration of the mysteries of the seabed
The upcoming mission, named “Continental Slope V”, will focus on investigating the Ameghino and Almirante Brown canyons, located about 600 kilometers off the coast of Chubut. These underwater structures act as true biodiversity refuges, and the scientific team will seek to understand their functioning at extreme depths.
The expedition, which will explore a little-studied region of the Southwestern Atlantic, is scheduled to last 23 days starting in April 2027, although there is a possibility of moving it up to February. This study promises to reveal vital information about areas of high biodiversity and fragile ecosystems.
Daniel Lauretta, a CONICET researcher and scientific leader of these campaigns, expresses his enthusiasm for resuming work in Argentine deep waters. “The Continental Slope V mission continues a work plan initiated in 2011, offering the opportunity to discover new species and expand the knowledge of our scientific community,” he states.
Martín Brogger, also from CONICET, highlights the value of strengthening interdisciplinary research and generating crucial data for the conservation of the Argentine Sea. According to Brogger, this campaign not only sparks scientific interest but also contributes to the development of national capacities in marine science.
This expedition will open a window to the knowledge of oceanic abysses, allowing for the foundation of future conservation policies. With the return of the Falkor vessel, Argentine science is ready to write a new chapter in ocean exploration.
Are you interested in nature and exploration?
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the best Weekend stories directly in your email.
Subscribe to the newsletter for free
