Photo: The image presents the central hypothesis of the HopeWaves project, investigating how internal waves may shape cold-water coral mounds in diverse marine photic zones, revealing insights into their development across varying oceanic light penetration depths.
University of Malta is delighted to introduce a new EU-funded research project, "HopeWaves," led by Dr Farkhondeh Kiani Harchegani, a Marie Curie Fellow, under the expert guidance and the supervision of Prof. Aaron Micallef from the Marine Geology and Seafloor Surveying group, Department of Geosciences.
"HopeWaves" emerges under the Marie Sk艂odowska-Curie Actions programme, with a profound focus on the protection of Cold-water-coral (CWC) habitats, recognised as fragile biodiversity hotspots severely threatened by human activities, particularly bottom trawling. In the heart of the central Mediterranean, within Maltese waters, lie mesophotic depths (30-150 metres) harbouring recently discovered CWC mounds. These enigmatic formations remain shrouded in mystery due to the scarcity of scientific data, rendering them vulnerable and unprotected.
The primary mission of "HopeWaves" is to embark on an exhaustive analysis of these mesophotic CWC mounds in Southeast Maltese waters. This project is essential in the formulation and enforcement of new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) networks. "HopeWaves" adopts an interdisciplinary approach encompassing geology, oceanography, and paleoecology to unravel the intricate factors influencing the development of these structures across varying climates, including the influence of internal waves and tides (IWs).
Commencing in September 2023, this two-year project unfolds at the University of Malta and thrives on collaboration with esteemed partners: MARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences at the University of Bremen and Westf盲lische Wilhelms-Universit盲t M眉nster | WWU Weiterbildung gGmbH.
This project's significance transcends academia, aligning with the broader EU mission to safeguard our oceans and promote a sustainable blue economy. By meticulously mapping seafloor habitats, HopeWaves endeavours to establish new MPAs and eradicate destructive fishing practices. This mission mirrors the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which strives to protect EU seas, with the ultimate goal of reducing global CO2 emissions linked to trawling.
The HopeWaves project anticipates a substantial impact, aiming to significantly increase the percentage of Marine Protected Areas in Maltese waters. This commitment to preserving marine biodiversity resonates with Sustainable Development Goal #14: Life below water, contributing to a healthier environment not only in the EU but globally.
This project has received funding from the European Union鈥檚 Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 101106265.
