Tara: a unique expedition

On the 5th of September, the ship Tara set sail from Lorient on a 3 year expedition across the world’s oceans.

The purpose of the voyage was to study two of the ocean’s most biodiverse systems, coral reefs and plankton. Only covering a mere 0.2% of the ocean’s surface area, coral reefs harbour 30% of marine species.

Tara Oceans, a truly scientific mission, will aim to explore this rich biodiversity.

The Scientific Centre of Monaco, internationally renowned for its expertise on reef corals, will take part in this adventure. In association with ten other laboratories from all the around the world, the Scientific Centre of Monaco aims to improve understanding of reef biology and to obtain a clearer picture of how coral reefs are responding to climate change.

Half the oxygen we breathe is produced by the ocean’s plankton and associated microorganisms. Despite this important role this invisible ecosystem is relatively unknown to man, while its biodiversity remains considerable. This marine life is currently threatened by the familiar threats of marine pollution and climate change. Faced with urgent need to act, Tara Oceans programme brings together an international, multidisciplinary team.

More than 12 areas of research will involve the skills of biologists, oceanographers, geneticists and physicists from prestigious laboratories.

For more information on the Tara Oceans programme consult the website http://oceans.taraexpeditions.org

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