Mid-Atlantic Ridge Ecosystems (MarEco)

The Patterns and Processes of the Ecosystems of the Northern Mid-Atlantic project explored marine life along the world’s longest mountain range, which rises from the seafloor 4,500 meters deep. The explorers found approximately 1,000 species, from small crustaceans to whales, including at least 30 new species. They found both mid-water animals from deep basins and bottom-living animals along slopes. Abundance generally peaked where cool and warm waters met. Project findings supported protection of areas of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge against harmful bottom fishing totaling 330,000 square kilometers, larger than Italy.

Project Leader
Odd Aksel Bergstad, Norway
MAR-ECO Project Website
Project Description