Scientific Sealed serenity: use of underwater bubble caves as refuge against disturbance by Mediterranean monk seals

We are thrilled to announce the publication of a new scientific paper in the international journal Oryx (Cambridge University Press / Fauna & Flora International)

The study, conducted in the Inner Ionian Sea Archipelago Natura 2000 Area documents how Mediterranean monk seals (Monachus monachus) regularly rest inside bubble caves: hidden, air-filled underwater chambers accessible only through submerged passages, with no beach or dry platform to haul out on. Groups of up to three individuals were observed resting, floating, or sleeping on the sea floor inside these secret chambers.Using an autonomous camera monitoring system, developed by Octopus Foundation, deployed on the uninhabited islet of Formicula, seals were recorded regularly using a bubble cave

The findings highlight the importance of including bubble caves in habitat suitability assessments for the species, and the urgent need to protect monk seal habitats from human disturbance.

Read the full open-access paper: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0030605325102718

Authors: Joan Gonzalvo[Opens in a new window], André Guinand, Julien Pfyffer, Cédric Georges, Carmen Andrés-Hervías and Manel Gazo

This is a research implemented by Ionian Dolphin Project and supported by the @monkseal_alliance, Costas M. Lemos Foundation, OceanCare , Blue Marine Foundation , Ionian Environment Foundation and SPA RAC