Build Knowledge of Marine Biodiversity in Comoros Archipelago, and Improve Support and Action for Conservation

Launch a research and inventory campaign of the mesophotic (i.e., "low light") corals, important marine habitats below the 30 meters deep limit. These habitats, although important for fisheries and for biodiversity conservation, are generally little known, but in the Comoros, there is virtually no information. The scientific mission, organized with local Comorian organizations and institutions, will shed light on these habitats at a time when Comoros is preparing their marine protected area network. The project also includes capacity building, with local Nongovermental organizations, fishermen representatives, and master's students from the Comoros who will get access to state-of-the-art research methods.