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.
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.
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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