There is a Twilight Zone in the Philippines which is located in Verde Island. This zone is about 150 to 500 meters deep and is partially in darkness. There is very little known about the marine life in that deep water.
Marine scientists from the California Academy of Sciences spent more than a month studying and getting specimens from that part of the sea. They have found out that there are new species that can be found in the Coral Triangle, as what scientists refer to this area. According to Terry Gosliner, PhD, lead investigator of the expedition and Senior Curator of Invertebrate Zoology at the California Academy of Sciences, the newly found species of marine life can also be found in shallower waters.
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The expedition found 40 new species of sea slugs or known as nudibranchs during their dives. A new type of urchin called heart urchin was also discovered. Fifteen species of fishes were also seen. Multi colored ctenophores, or “comb jellies” were also found from a depth of 280 feet.
The Philippine waters are so rich with life and indeed it is a diver’s paradise. With this new development from marine scientists, it is indeed worth time and effort to dive in these deep waters. Diving in the Philippines is now popular and with many tourists opting to come to the country because there are many dive spots to choose from.
There are many dive shops, instructors and guides in resorts and beaches all over the country. Enjoy diving in the Philippines!
