euronews.com
Mesophotic Ecosystems of Cyprus Reveal Biodiversity and Human Impact
A UK-funded project conducted the first exploration of mesophotic ecosystems (50-200 meters deep) in Akrotiri and Dhekelia, Cyprus, discovering over 200 species, including several new to Cyprus, but also evidence of human impact such as marine litter and bottom trawling.
- What is the most significant finding of the MESOPHOS project concerning the mesophotic ecosystems in Cyprus?
- The MESOPHOS project revealed the existence of diverse and unique mesophotic ecosystems in Cyprus, harboring over 200 species, including rare and threatened corals. However, the study also uncovered significant human impact, such as marine litter and damage from bottom trawling, even at these depths.
- How do these mesophotic ecosystems contribute to the overall marine environment and what threats do they face?
- These ecosystems act as biodiversity refuges, indirectly supporting sustainable fisheries. Threats include marine litter (including ghost gear), bottom trawling, invasive species, and coral death potentially linked to ocean warming, impacting the slow-growing and vulnerable habitats like maerl beds and sponge grounds.
- What are the recommendations based on the MESOPHOS findings and what are the implications for future research and management?
- The findings call for immediate protection of sensitive habitats from destructive fishing (especially bottom trawling), alongside mapping these habitats for effective management. Long-term monitoring is needed, and similar surveys around Cyprus should be conducted to better understand the extent and vulnerability of these ecosystems.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the discovery and the threats to the mesophotic ecosystems. While highlighting the importance and unique biodiversity of the ecosystems, it also gives significant attention to the human impact, such as pollution and bottom trawling. The headline and introduction do not favor one side over the other.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. Terms like "fragile" and "slow-growing" to describe the corals are descriptive rather than emotionally charged. The use of quotes from an expert lends credibility and avoids subjective interpretations.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including information on the specific policies or regulations in place (or lack thereof) to protect these ecosystems in the Akrotiri and Dhekelia areas. Also, mentioning potential economic impacts of protecting versus exploiting these areas would add context. However, given the article's length, these omissions are not severely problematic.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article directly addresses SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by documenting the discovery of a unique mesophotic ecosystem in Cyprus and highlighting the significant negative impacts of human activities, such as bottom trawling, marine litter, and ocean warming, on this fragile habitat. The research reveals the vulnerability of these deep-sea ecosystems to human pressures, even at depths previously thought to be protected. The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation measures to protect these vital marine habitats and their biodiversity.