A private research vessel, on a quest to discover and reveal some of the secrets of the oceans in Africa, has arrived in the Mother City. Several scientists from Africa were on board the OceanXplorer.

The expedition, which was launched on 30 January, mapped uncharted ecosystems and gathered critical biodiversity data across Africa’s waters. The Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer of OceanX, Vincent Pieribome says there were many significant breakthroughs. One of them is that the first-ever exploration occurred, of a previously known but unexplored seamount south of Walter’s Shoal along the Madagascar Ridge.

PieriboMe reflected on the expedition’s progress, “Arriving in Cape Town marks an exciting milestone for the ‘Around Africa Expedition’.

In a historic first, he says the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) conducted a visual survey. Pieribome says this revealed a breathtaking deep-sea ecosystem, which is home to corals, sponges, and deep-sea species that had never been observed in this area before.

 

 

He added, “This city, with its deep maritime heritage and dedication to ocean science, provides the perfect backdrop to present our discoveries and collaborate with Africa’s brightest marine scientists.”

Extensive scientific work

 

At the same time, the first full dive expedition at Walter’s Shoal uncovered fascinating geological formations as well as an abundance of marine biodiversity. He says video surveys documented carbonate pebbles, deep-sea corals and species, such as the Brisingid sea stars, a chimaera, a dumbo octopus, and a moray eel nestled within the rocks.

 

Pieribone, also had this to say, “Our mission goes beyond exploration. We aim to inspire the next generation of ocean leaders, develop meaningful partnerships, and contribute valuable data that supports marine conservation worldwide.”

He added that sightings of Brisingid sea stars were a highlight, as they are characteristic of deep-sea ecosystems and serve as important indicators of ocean health. Notably, two kitefin sharks were recorded during another dive in the north aspect of the seamount, to the delight of the team.