September 15, 2012

Monterey Bay’s Seafloor Importance Corals, Sponges, Fish Protect West Coast Special Places

September 15, 2012 No Comments

MONTEREY, CA- Today, Oceana released a new report about the importance of Monterey Bay’s seafloor habitat. In 2010, Oceana partnered with SeaLife Conservation aboard the 65 foot eco-research sailboat, the Derek M. Baylis, to explore and document Monterey Bay’s incredibly unique ocean habitats and associated fish species. Working with scientists from CSU Monterey Bay, the ROV footage was analyzed and reviewed and the important findings have been compiled into a report that will be submitted to the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) as it considers changes to federally protected areas off the U.S. west coast at its meeting this weekend.
“From massive pinnacles to deep canyon walls, Monterey Bay’s seafloor habitats rival the visual beauty and ecological importance of tropical coral reefs,” said Dr. Geoff Shester, Oceana’s California Program Director, who led the expedition and scientific analysis.

A Glimpse into Madagascar's Natural Treasure The image captures the breathtaking beauty of Madagascar's newly protected areas. It's a visual feast that showcases why this island nation is a biodiversity hotspot worthy of preservation. In the foreground, a group of ring-tailed lemurs, Madagascar's iconic primates, perch on the twisted branches of a majestic baobab tree. These curious creatures, with their distinctive black and white striped tails, symbolize the unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. The middle ground bursts with lush, verdant rainforest. It's a dense tapestry of green, hinting at the countless endemic plant species that call Madagascar home. From the medicinal rosy periwinkle to the spiny octopus tree, this forest is a living pharmacy and a botanical wonderland. In the background, a pristine coastline stretches out, its turquoise waters lapping at golden sands. This reminds us that Madagascar's conservation efforts extend from its forests to its marine ecosystems, protecting coral reefs and providing sanctuaries for sea turtles and dugongs. A small but significant detail catches the eye - a sign reading "Protected Area" in both English and Malagasy. It's a powerful symbol of the Malagasy government's commitment to preserving these irreplaceable natural wonders for future generations. This image isn't just pretty pixels - it's a vivid representation of why Madagascar's move to create its largest protected areas is so crucial. It's a celebration of biodiversity, a call to conservation, and a promise for the future. As we admire this scene, let's remember: every lemur, every tree, every grain of sand plays a vital role in this complex ecosystem. Madagascar's bold step in conservation isn't just good news for the island - it's a win for our entire planet.

Madagascar Protected Area: Makira Natural Park

September 15, 2012 No Comments

Madagascar Protected Area Madagascar created a protected area. For it is one of our planet’s most pristine natural sanctuaries. Especially with more than one percent