The NOSYBE100 project aims to explore and describe for the first time the main benthic communities that structure reef ecosystems along a vertical depth gradient (20-100 m), using the Nosy Be archipelago (Madagascar) as a case study through four key stations. The operational objectives are:
1. Explore, discover, describe and characterize the biodiversity present along a vertical depth transect, including endemic and potentially new species, and understand the structuring of communities according to their environment (depth, topography, substrate, temperature, luminosity).
2. Quantify genetic connectivity along this vertical transect: are mesophotic habitats sources or sinks for larvae from shallower areas?
3. Assess the need to include mesophotic coral ecosystems in Madagascar’s MPAs by providing information to local authorities for the establishment of strategic conservation planning.
The project is funded under a ULB ‘”Action Blanche” umbrella, and will be led by Camille Moreau, Lucas Terrana and Bruno Danis.
