Scientists are streaming live underwater explorations of the Mar del Plata Canyon, a deep-sea submarine gorge off the coast of Argentina plunging nearly 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) beneath the South Atlantic. This 20-day expedition, led by Argentina’s CONICET (National Scientific and Technical Research Council) and the Schmidt Ocean Institute, is the first to broadcast high-definition, real-time footage of this little-known ecosystem, drawing over a million daily viewers since it began last week.
Using the research vessel Falkor (too) and the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian, scientists are revealing stunning images of vibrant corals, mysterious fishes, and unusual sea creatures—including an orange starfish that viewers have nicknamed after SpongeBob SquarePants’s Patrick Star. The canyon lies at a rare confluence of the warm Brazil Current and cold, nutrient-rich Malvinas Current, creating a dynamic environment ripe for new discoveries about marine biodiversity.
The livestream, accessible here on Schmidt Ocean Institute’s official YouTube channel:
and a recent dive update:
invites the public to explore alongside scientists in real time as they navigate the canyon’s depths. The expedition not only advances scientific knowledge but also offers hope during a challenging period for Argentine science, which faces significant budget cuts under the current government—CONICET’s budget was reduced by 21% last year, affecting salaries and research funding.
Marine biologists involved emphasize the excitement of seeing deep-sea corals with colors comparable to tropical reefs and discovering species never before recorded in this part of the Atlantic. The public’s enthusiastic engagement through social media has helped spotlight the value of science despite funding setbacks, making this livestream a beacon for both marine research and science advocacy in Argentina.