A new stage of oceanic research in expeditions of the CONICET is underway in Argentina. The expedition “A tale of 2 submarine canyons“ sets sail with a multidisciplinary team of Argentine scientists to explore the depths of the Argentine Sea.
Aboard the research vessel Falkor, oceanographers, biologists, and geologists will collaborate to unravel the secrets of the submarine canyons Bahía Blanca (off Viedma, Río Negro) and Almirante Brown (off Rawson, Chubut).
Dr. Laura A. Ruiz Etcheverry, one of the lead researchers, detailed the mission’s objectives to La Nueva. They aim to understand how the Falklands Current diverts and fertilizes the Argentine continental shelf, a region of great fisheries importance.
The expedition will use cutting-edge technology, including drifting buoys and autonomous vehicles, to analyze currents, temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels in the depths.
A comprehensive study of the marine ecosystem
The mission is not limited to one field; it is a holistic approach to understanding the oceanic system. Scientists will analyze phytoplankton and zooplankton, the pillars of the marine food chain. As Etcheverry explains, “if there is no phytoplankton, there are no fish.”
The team will also examine the geology of the seabed and the interaction of sediments with currents. The expedition will use the ROV SuBastian, a remotely operated vehicle, to collect samples and capture images of the ocean floor. It will offer an unprecedented view of life at these depths.
This campaign represents a joint effort of several key institutions, such as the Naval Hydrographic Service (SHN), the Center for Sea and Atmosphere Research (CIMA-UBA-Conicet), and the National University of the South (UNS), among others.
This project aims to protect natural resources and promote sustainable use of marine ecosystems, recognizing the importance of the fertility of these waters for the country’s economy and biodiversity.
Areas to be investigated
- Bahía Blanca Submarine Canyons System (40° – 42°S): located 500 km from the city of Viedma, Río Negro province.
- Almirante Brown Submarine Canyons System (44° – 45°S): located 450 km from the town of Rawson, Chubut province.
Activities include mapping the seabed and measuring velocities along the water column with echosounders attached to the Falkor vessel (harmless to marine biota). This is done to understand the shape of the seabed and the characteristics of the currents.
According to Etcheverry, the experience can be followed through streaming, although “not as much as in previous campaigns.” This is because now the goal is to look on a smaller scale to take water samples and observe them under the microscope.
“However, there will be content related to the geological part. The ROV SuBastian (remotely operated vehicle) will be used five times to take sediment samples and observe the seabed. If any interesting animals appear, the onboard biologists can show what we are seeing,” she clarified.
The streaming is associated with the ROV dives. There are estimated days, but it is just an approximation. Since the ship operates 24 hours a day and depends on when we reach the study area, it is difficult to establish an exact schedule.
Live Science: education, curiosity, and social connection
The first CONICET streaming, which featured the famous dumbo octopus and a novelty of creatures, generated record audiences and sparked the interest of children, youth, and teachers in marine science.
The initiative aims to disseminate knowledge, create educational content, and strengthen scientific vocations across the country.
