Canary Islands - Volcanic Reefs

The Canary Islands were formed in the Atlantic Ocean 30 million years ago. Creatures that seem to be from another universe have adapted to thrive here in the complex aquatic ecosystems, unique to the planet, amid the incessant onslaught of the waves and their currents. In addition to the delicate species inhabiting the coastal rock pools, there is an immense network of underwater forests and structures, and millions of living organisms inhabiting the depths.

In the dimly-lit world beyond the depth of 50 metres, the black coral forests dominate the pillow-shaped lava formations. But this pristine environment faces an uncertain future. The rubbish we generate year after year, fishing activity, and intense maritime traffic are having a devastating effect on these reefs, even those in the deepest of waters. The increase in global temperature has also contributed to opening up the borders of the archipelago for the first time to numerous exotic species, some of which have managed to settle successfully. In the last 10 years alone, one hundred new species have been registered in the Canary Islands.

This aquatic universe, yet to be fully discovered, is the great hope for the future of life on our planet. Our oceans absorb more than 30% of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and these underwater gardens are crucial for the fight against climate change. They represent an essential organ for maintaining the health of our planet.