Scientists have identified a previously unknown coral garden in the protected waters of Menez Gwen, about 150 miles southwest of Horta in the Azores—marking the first known habitat formed by the rare hydrocoral Crypthelia vascomarquesi.

The discovery, led by marine biologist Íris Sampaio, reveals a dense, branching white coral ecosystem nearly 850 meters below the ocean’s surface. The species, which has a calcium-based skeleton, provides shelter for a range of marine life. Researchers also documented female specimens of the coral for the first time, a key step in understanding its biology.

The find was made using the French deep-sea robot “Victor 6000,” which captured high-resolution images and collected samples from the seafloor. The data allowed scientists to map the coral garden’s size and density, as well as conduct detailed morphological and genetic analysis.

Sampaio says the discovery underscores how little is known about deep-sea ecosystems—and their vulnerability. While no specific studies yet exist for this species, research on other corals suggests climate change could shrink suitable habitats as ocean temperatures rise. Changes in ocean chemistry, particularly acidification, may also weaken coral skeletons and threaten their survival.

Because Crypthelia vascomarquesi appears to exist only in a limited region—including the Azores, Madeira, and nearby seamounts—it may prove especially valuable for studying how climate change affects deep-ocean biodiversity.

For now, scientists say, the priority is clear: explore further, gather more data, and determine whether this rare coral is truly unique—or part of a hidden network yet to be discovered.

Adapted from an interview by José Henrique Andrade for Correio dos Açores-Natalino Viveiros, director

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.