Publications
Discovering the mesophotic fauna of Malpelo Ridge: biodiversity insights in a remote marine sanctuary
A recent study reveals that Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary harbors significantly higher fish biomass in its mesophotic ecosystems (30-150 m depth) than previously estimated. The research, conducted during the 2025 Mesophotic Scientific Expedition, identified six new fish species for the sanctuary, including olive grouper and misty grouper, suggesting deeper reef-associated habitats support substantial biodiversity. Additionally, the study documented 64 benthic megafaunal taxa and 33 fish taxa using remotely operated vehicle (ROV) surveys and scientific diving, with over 90% of macrobenthic records representing new species for the region. The dataset, compliant with international standards, provides baseline information on mesophotic biodiversity in the Colombian Pacific, contributing to global repositories like OBIS and GBIF.
Primer registro de Psammocora cf. stellata (Scleractinia: Psammocoridae)en el Santuario de Fauna y Flora Malpelo, Pacífico colombiano
Researchers document the first record of the coral genus Psammocora in the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Colombia's Pacific coast. The discovery, identified as Psammocora cf. stellata, was made during a scientific dive at 22 meters depth near 'Cueva del Francés' on July 5, 2025. The identification relied on morphological features—nodular colony growth and distinct star-shaped corallites—observed in photographs, aligning closely with Psammocora stellata but lacking physical samples for confirmation. This finding expands the known coral diversity of Malpelo, contributing to the inventory of scleractinian corals in the Colombian Pacific. The study highlights the sanctuary's ecological significance and underscores the importance of visual documentation in marine biodiversity research.
Short-term variability of fish larvae assemblages in Malpelo island, an isolated oceanic island in the Eastern Tropical Pacific
A study of Malpelo Island, an isolated oceanic site in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, reveals distinct larval fish assemblages shaped by local hydrographic conditions. The research identified 26 taxonomic units, with insular waters dominated by epipelagic and reef-associated species like Sardinops sagax, while offshore areas were characterized by mesopelagic taxa such as Diogenichthys laternatus. Despite no significant difference in larval abundance between locations, low assemblage similarity (45%) and high species turnover (79%) underscored the island's ecological distinctiveness. Larvae exhibited diel vertical migration, ascending to shallower layers at night, influenced by thermocline and halocline depth. The findings provide critical baseline data for conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Relative abundance and diversity of sharks and predatory fishes across Marine Protected Areas of the Tropical Eastern Pacific
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) play a pivotal role as critical refuges for sharks and large predatory fishes, with oceanic island MPAs supporting some of the highest relative abundances reported globally. This study, using stereo-Baited Remote Underwater Video systems (stereo-BRUVs), found that oceanic island MPAs exhibit significantly greater species richness and fish abundances compared to coastal MPAs, which show signs of depletion due to fishing pressure. The research highlights the importance of MPA remoteness and protection in sustaining marine biodiversity but also underscores the need for improved conservation measures, such as stronger enforcement, to mitigate ongoing threats like 'fishing down the food web' observed in coastal regions.
Description of a Highly Modified Endemic Ground Beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from the Oceanic Island of Malpelo, Colombia
Researchers have identified Dyscolus (Cacothrix) malpelensis, a highly modified endemic ground beetle from Malpelo Island, Colombia—a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extreme environmental conditions. This new species exhibits unique adaptations, such as tight coaptation of its elytra and pronotum, likely evolved in response to predation pressures from lizards and land crabs, as well as the island's lack of deep soil. The study describes these morphological traits, suggesting they may represent a specialized strategy for survival in Malpelo's harsh, depauperate ecosystem. The findings highlight the resilience and evolutionary ingenuity of invertebrates in extreme oceanic environments.
Microbial shifts associated to ENSO-derived thermal anomalies reveal coral acclimation at holobiont level
Research at Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary reveals that the microbiome of the sea fan Pacifigorgia cairnsi undergoes significant shifts during El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO)-derived thermal anomalies, suggesting coral acclimation to both warming and cooling phases. The study found that microbial community composition and functional profiles differed between extreme temperature phases (warming or cooling) and neutral conditions, with core members like Endozoicomonas and Mycoplasma driving these changes. These shifts indicate a potential mechanism for maintaining coral viability under thermal stress, acting as an extended phenotype that facilitates holobiont acclimation in unperturbed ecosystems like Malpelo, which lacks direct coastal anthropogenic impacts.
Richness distribution patterns of marine elasmobranchs in Colombia
A study on marine elasmobranchs in Colombia reveals significant regional variation in species richness, with the Caribbean coast showing higher diversity compared to the Pacific. The analysis documented 138 species, including 76 sharks and 62 batoids, with 20 species common to both coasts. Notably, the Pacific islands of Gorgona and Malpelo exhibited the highest richness per spatial unit, though completeness estimates suggest ongoing gaps in inventory. Richness estimators indicated that current documentation is incomplete, highlighting the need for further exploration. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation efforts, particularly within marine protected areas like the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, to safeguard this ecologically vital group.
Diseño de una malla de muestreo oceanográfico para el Santuario de Flora y Fauna Malpelo, Pacífico de Colombia
A new oceanographic sampling grid for the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, off Colombia's Pacific coast, has been designed to improve monitoring efficiency. The study, conducted by Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia, found that expanding the existing six-station grid to eight stations—spaced 7.41 km (4 nautical miles) apart—better captures spatial variability in sea surface temperature (SST). This was determined using in situ SST data and satellite-derived MODIS-Aqua observations, along with spatial autocorrelation analysis and logistical constraints. The new grid addresses the limitations of the previous design, which had insufficient coverage due to close station spacing and a small sample size for such a large marine protected area.
Distribución, composición y abundancia del ictioplancton en tres áreas marinas protegidas del Pacífico colombiano
Researchers identified distinct patterns in ichthyoplankton distribution, composition, and abundance across three Colombian Pacific marine protected areas: Sanquianga National Natural Park (coastal), Gorgona National Natural Park (intermediate), and Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary (oceanic). The study, conducted during November 2009, found that Sanquianga exhibited the highest larval fish abundance (1,553 larvae/10m²) with Engraulidae as the dominant family, while Gorgona showed greater taxonomic diversity (52 species across 29 families), and Malpelo recorded the lowest abundance (191 larvae/10m²). Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis confirmed clear differences in community composition among sites. The findings suggest that environmental factors, including elevated temperatures linked to an El Niño event, may have influenced larval fish distribution. Notably, Engraulidae eggs were detected for the first time at Malpelo, potentially indicating shifts in oceanic currents.
Monitoring of the status of eleven bony and cartilaginous fish populations in the Malpelo Sanctuary of Fauna and Flora, Colombian Pacific
A decade-long study of fish populations in the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary reveals concerning trends for marine species. The research found that most of the eleven bony and cartilaginous fish species monitored exhibited non-significant declines in abundance from 2009 to 2019. Notably, the scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) showed a statistically significant decrease, underscoring the need for urgent conservation action. The study employed underwater visual censuses to assess trends over time. While some species like the spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus laticeps) and whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) showed positive but non-significant trends, the overall findings highlight the importance of strengthening fisheries management measures not only within the sanctuary but also in the broader Tropical Eastern Pacific region to safeguard these critical species.
Similar Trait Structure and Vulnerability in Pelagic Fish Faunas on Two Remote Islands
Despite significant differences in species composition and abundance between the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a marine protected area, and an unprotected site in Cape Verde, pelagic fish communities exhibit similar functional trait structures. This suggests that while species diversity may vary under different protection levels and productivity regimes, community resilience and vulnerability remain consistent. The study used Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems to assess pelagic vertebrate diversity and abundance, analyzing six key functional traits to evaluate functional diversity. Findings indicate a common 'functional backbone' in pelagic communities, implying that species composition does not necessarily influence functional structure or resilience potential.
The elasmobranchs of Malpelo Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, Colombia
A comprehensive survey of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) in the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, Colombia, reveals 34 species, including five new shark records and three new ray records. Conducted between 1987 and 2021 using SCUBA diving, manned submersibles, and deep-ocean cameras down to 2211 meters, the study highlights that 64% of these species are threatened according to IUCN standards. This underscores Malpelo's critical role as a conservation stronghold for highly endangered marine fauna, providing essential baselines for monitoring and protection efforts in this unique marine-protected area.
Triplefin fishes from the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, Colombian Pacific
Research on triplefin fishes (family Tripterygidae) in the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, Colombian Pacific, reveals new insights into the abundance and morphological variability of two endemic species: Axoclinus rubinoffi and Lepidonectes bimaculatus. The study found mean larval abundances of 1.88 individuals/m² for A. rubinoffi and 0.25 individuals/m² for L. bimaculatus, while adult densities were 0.22 and 0.19 individuals/m², respectively. These findings highlight significant differences in population densities compared to previous studies and extend the known natural variability of morphological traits. The research underscores the need for long-term data collection, including genetic information, to fully understand the population dynamics of these species. Triplefins were collected at night stations near El Arrecife and La Nevera, as well as around the island at depths of 0-30 meters.
Use of environmental DNA in assessment of fish functional and phylogenetic diversity
Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding outperforms traditional methods like underwater video surveys in assessing fish biodiversity, including phylogenetic and functional diversity. A study at Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a remote marine protected area off Colombia's Pacific coast, found that eDNA detected 66% more molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) than video surveys, along with higher functional richness and phylogenetic diversity. The research, comparing 10 eDNA samples from 30 liters of water against 25 hours of video footage over four days, demonstrated that a single eDNA transect could capture as much phylogenetic diversity as 25 hours of video. While taxonomic assignments remain limited by genetic reference databases, the findings highlight eDNA's potential for affordable, efficient, and non-invasive biodiversity monitoring in marine ecosystems.
Aporte de las Áreas Marinas Protegidas del Sistema de Parques Nacionales Naturales a la representatividad de ecosistemas en Colombia
A recent analysis reveals that Colombia's Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) managed by the Sistema de Parques Nacionales Naturales have significantly improved ecosystem representation, particularly for deep-sea corals. Initially underrepresented at 0%, these ecosystems now show overrepresentation (≥ 60%). The study, covering 18 MPAs from 2010 to 2020, found increased representativity in mangroves, seagrass beds, sedimentary bottoms, and salt flats in the Caribbean, while estuaries, sedimentary bottoms, mangroves, muddy intertidal flats, sandy beaches, and submarine mountains saw growth in the Pacific. Notably, deep-sea corals were newly included as an ecosystem type. However, some ecologically significant ecosystems like Caribbean estuaries (0.55%) and Pacific mixed guandal forests (0.22%) showed no change in representativity. The research underscores the need for further investigation into deep benthic habitats to meet post-2020 biodiversity conservation goals.
Manejo efectivo de áreas protegidas en Colombia : una propuesta de estándares
A proposed standard for effective management of protected areas (APs) in Colombia, based on the global standard by the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Protected Areas (LVAPC), was developed and validated through three case studies: Tatamá National Natural Park, Gorgona National Natural Park, and Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. The study identifies current gaps in Colombia's progress toward meeting the Effective Management of APs (EMAP) criteria and offers a framework for coherent planning, equitable governance, and effective management. This work aims to enrich future adaptations of the global standard by sharing the process of adaptation, evaluation, and validation.
Primer registro del lenguado de Herre, Aseraggodes herrei (Pleuronectiformes: Soleidae), en la isla Malpelo, Pacífico colombiano
Researchers document the first confirmed occurrence of Herre's sole, Aseraggodes herrei, at Colombia's Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. This rare flatfish, previously known only from the Galápagos, Revillagigedo archipelagos, and Cocos Island in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, was observed camouflaged on coarse sand at 24 meters depth. The discovery extends its island distribution range and underscores the challenges in surveying cryptic, benthically associated species. The study highlights Malpelo's ecological significance for such species, emphasizing the need for targeted inventories to capture visually elusive marine life.
Primer registro del pepino de mar garra de león Euapta godeffroyi Semper, 1868 (Holothuroidea: Apodida: Synaptidae) en la isla Gorgona, Pacífico colombiano
Researchers document the first occurrence of the lion's paw sea cucumber, Euapta godeffroyi, at Isla Gorgona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Colombia's Pacific coast. This discovery extends the known range of the species in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, filling a critical gap in its distribution. The specimen, measuring approximately 80 cm in length and 2-3 cm in diameter, was collected via autonomous diving at a shallow coral patch (El Arrecifito del Muelle) near the island's shore. Analysis of its skeletal ossicles—primarily anchors and anchor plates with branched bases—confirms its identification. The finding underscores the biodiversity significance of Isla Gorgona, where 11 of the 34 recorded sea cucumber species in Colombian waters have been observed.
Ocurrencia y Tasas de Encuentro de Mamíferos Marinos en las Aguas de la Isla Malpelo y Hacia el Continente
A decade-long study (2001–2010) of marine mammal sightings around Malpelo Island and its continental waters reveals that the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is the most consistently abundant species, with stable encounter rates year-round. The research, combining data from four sources, identified seven species near the island—with peak richness in October–November—and 13 during cruises, where humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) dominated (March–April). Humpbacks were seasonally linked to Malpelo, suggesting reproductive use. The study also found species associations with distinct water zones: M. novaeangliae near the continental shelf, D. delphis in intermediate waters, and T. truncatus across both, indicating overlapping populations. This work advances knowledge of marine mammal distribution in Colombian waters, highlighting Malpelo’s ecological significance.
Shark reactions to scuba divers in two marine protected areas of the Eastern Tropical Pacific
Shark reactions to scuba divers vary significantly based on diver behavior, observation strategy, and proximity. This study found that sharks exhibit stronger behavioral responses when divers employ 'direct approach,' sudden movements, or move closer than 4 meters. These actions, along with the use of camera flashes and noise, tend to elicit evasion or alert reactions in sharks, particularly those species targeted by divers. Interestingly, divers are more intrusive towards species they perceive as less threatening and easier to access due to environmental conditions. The research, conducted in two marine protected areas—Galápagos Marine Reserve (Ecuador) and Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary (Colombia)—analyzed five shark species using four reaction categories and five diver behavior categories. It highlights the need for responsible diving practices to minimize impacts on shark behavior and ecology.
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