At the end of 2022, the UNSEEN team headed to the deep waters of the Moluccas for a unique mission. The objective: to create the first inventory of unexplored seabeds, cataloging fish, corals, and sponges, as well as assessing plastic pollution in the region. On the agenda, some wonderful discoveries and still unknown species!
The Moluccas, an archipelago full of promises
The name Moluccas evokes images of faraway places, with cargoes of spices and ships loaded with nutmeg and cloves. The remoteness of the archipelago, east of Indonesia, has long protected its riches from tourist crowds. However, Alexis Chappuis, the project leader, highlights that an increasing number of boats, estimated at 200 since the Raja Ampat, are now heading to the Moluccas. Moorings are diversifying, even at great depths. Their mission is clear: to document and showcase these precious seabeds to ensure their protection before it is too late.
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