Mesophotic ecosystems at Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil (South-western Atlantic), reveal unique ichthyofauna and need for conservation

A groundbreaking survey of mesophotic ecosystems at the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, has uncovered 19 new fish species, including four potential new species, significantly increasing marine fish richness by 8.2% in the region. This discovery underscores the biodiversity hidden at depths between 31 and 150 meters, even in well-studied areas like Fernando de Noronha. Researchers employed a multi-method approach, utilizing SCUBA and technical rebreather diving, baited remote underwater videos, and remotely operated vehicles to document shallow (≤ 30 m) and mesophotic fish diversity. The findings highlight the critical need for conservation efforts to protect these unique ichthyofauna, which remain largely unexplored and vulnerable to human impacts.

Pimentel, C. R., Rocha, L. A., Shepherd, B., Phelps, T. A. Y., Joyeux, J.-C., Martins, A. S., Stein, C. E., Teixeira, J. B., Gasparini, J. L., Reis-Filho, J. A., Garla, R. C., Francini-Filho, R. B., Delfino, S. D. T., Mello, T. J., Giarrizzo, T., & Pinheiro, H. T. (2020). Mesophotic ecosystems at Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil (South-western Atlantic), reveal unique ichthyofauna and need for conservation. Neotropical Ichthyology, 18(4). https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2020-0050