Benin's deep-water reef revived, teeming with life
A coral reef off Benin long thought dead has been found alive in a mesophotic, deeper low-light zone. Researchers used 1960s records to guide sonar surveys and underwater drone footage, revealing a living ecosystem with eight fish species and eight coral types. The find highlights gaps in reef mapping and conservation planning and sets the stage for further fieldwork to confirm species and health, with potential implications for regional biodiversity and local fisheries.
