Two areas of corals with great vitality were discovered on the coast of Cuba
Havana, Aug 5 (RHC) The discovery of two coral areas with an excellent state of conservation is today among the preliminary results of the explorations carried out by national scientists during the Bojeo expedition to Cuba.
Patricia González, president of the Scientific Council of the Center for Marine Research of the University of Havana, explained that this discovery is unprecedented and of great importance for the scientific community of the region, since it deals with endangered coral species.
According to González, there are two areas, one of them on the coast of Puerto Padre, in the province of Las Tunas, where a very large and vigorous colony of the coral known as servant horn was found; and the other, on Santa Lucía beach, in Camagüey, where a reef crest in excellent health was sighted.
She specified that these findings could be taken into account in for the creation of new protected areas on the Island, due to the high environmental values and species threatened with extinction, which is why it is vital for science to deepen its studies.
The expert commented that the scientists have verified the high rate of affectation of coral reefs due to the rise in water temperature due to the effects of climate change, also caused by overfishing.
Regarding the fish population, Dr. Fabian Pina, in charge of the sampling of this marine species, pointed out that they appreciate a decrease in the Cuban platform, although they have verified a good level of preservation in several coastal areas of the eastern region.
He added that at each site they monitor about a hundred species of small, medium and large fish, including sharks and other carnivores, to assess the conditions of the environment and the strength of the animals.
The Bojeo expedition to Cuba is organized by the Marine Research Center of the University of Havana, the Environment Agency of the Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment and Avalon-Marlin, among other research centers.
In addition, it receives financial support and equipment from international organizations such as the Environmental Defense Fund, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Harte Research Institution, Sweet spa, the Green Climate Fund and the United Nations Development Program. (Source: PL)
