METEOR M209

Exploring the Deep-Sea Ecosystems off Cape Verde

More than 90% of Cape Verde’s Exclusive Economic Zone consists of deep-sea areas that remain largely unexplored. Expedition M209 aims to study these ecosystems by mapping the seafloor along island and seamount slopes and documenting the habitats and communities found there.

The research focuses on the biodiversity and zonation of seafloor habitats, as well as the organisms and communities in the mesopelagic zone (midwater column) and the benthopelagic zone (near the seafloor). The goal is to investigate species diversity, organism behaviour, and their roles within food webs.

During the expedition, we will employ advanced mapping, observation, and sampling techniques. Post-expedition analyses will include genomic and other scientific approaches to assess deep-sea biodiversity and trophic interactions. By conducting a standardised research programme at the islands of Santo Antão, Fogo, and Santiago, as well as the Nola and Cadamosto seamounts, this expedition will contribute valuable data for the conservation of deep-sea ecosystems in the Cape Verde archipelago.