The Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI), in partnership with the Nekton Foundation and the Maldives National University (MNU), has presented findings from the country’s first comprehensive survey of its deep ocean at an event held in Malé.
The Deep Reef Event, hosted at MNU Business School, showcased research from the First Descent: Maldives Mission, which explored the Maldivian ocean from the surface to depths of 1,000 metres along a 590-kilometre stretch between North Malé and Addu Atoll.
The research covered several areas of marine science, including fish communities across different depths, deep-sea sharks and rays, zooplankton connectivity and environmental DNA (eDNA), which can help researchers identify species by analysing genetic material in the environment.
The event opened with remarks by MMRI Director General Mohamed Shimal, followed by an inaugural address from MNU Chancellor Dr. Mahmood Shaugee.
The gathering brought together researchers and presenters to share the mission’s findings, highlighting the importance of deep-sea research in improving scientific understanding of the Maldives’ marine ecosystems.
In a post on X, the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources said the research reflected the Maldives’ growing role in deep-sea science.
MMRI later announced the conclusion of the event, thanking the Nekton Foundation for its partnership in the First Descent: Maldives Mission, MNU for its support, and the presenters who shared their research findings.
