A team of researchers from the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences of UBA and Conicet will be part of the third and final expedition of the ship Falkor (too) in the Argentine Sea.
The journey will begin on December 14, 2025 from the Port of Buenos Aires and will end on January 10, 2026 in the city of Puerto Madryn, after a month of scientific explorations in deep waters.
Objectives of the “Life in the Extremes” campaign
The expedition will focus on the analysis of the Malvinas Basin and the Salado Basin, where cold seeps have been detected, as well as an unexplored sector in the Colorado-Rawson basins.
The team, led by biologist María Emilia Bravo, will consist of 25 specialists in marine chemistry, ecology, benthic invertebrate taxonomy, physical oceanography, marine geology, and geophysics. Their mission will be to study the methane gas seeps that emerge from the depths of the continental slope and sustain unique ecosystems of microorganisms and animals in extreme conditions.
Live explorations and cutting-edge technology
The explorations will be broadcast via streaming, allowing the public to observe how scientists collect samples of sediments, benthic fauna, water, and rocks.
During the campaign, at least 15 dives with a remotely operated submarine (ROV) will be conducted, which will provide unprecedented data on the distribution and significance of these ecosystems in the South Atlantic.
Background: the success of Mar del Plata
The previous Conicet expedition in Mar del Plata marked a scientific and outreach milestone:
- New discoveries: previously unknown organisms to science were identified, such as a “telescope” octopus and a bioluminescent siphonophore.
- Pristine ecosystems: a nearly virgin submarine canyon was discovered, crucial for biodiversity and the reproduction of South Atlantic species.
- Cutting-edge technology: the ROV SuBastian was used for the first time in Argentine waters, capable of obtaining ultra-high-definition images and collecting samples with minimal environmental impact.
Impact on scientific outreach
The live broadcast reached a peak of 50,000 simultaneous viewers, surpassing other national channels and captivating a diverse audience, with 75% of viewers being Argentine.
The interest transcended borders, with coverage in international media like The New York Times, and generated a strong impact on the inspiration of young people towards marine biology and science.
Success and paradox
The expedition also highlighted the threat of plastic pollution in the oceans, even in seemingly virgin areas.
At the same time, it evidenced the paradox of Argentine science: cutting-edge achievements reached amidst budget cuts and lack of state support.
The “Life in the Extremes” campaign promises to expand knowledge about the deep ecosystems of the South Atlantic and consolidate the presence of Argentine science in international ocean exploration. With live broadcasts, state-of-the-art technology, and an interdisciplinary team, the Falkor (too) expedition not only seeks to discover new forms of life but also highlight the environmental and scientific challenges facing the country.
