A catamaran dedicated to marine research is currently en route to the
Canary Islands.
The Oceana Ranger departed from the Port of Sagunto in Spain earlier this week, with the crew set to gather information and advise the government on how to protect its marine environment.
According to treehugger.com, scientists on the vessel will study the seabed around
La Palma,
La Gomera,
El Hierro,
Lanzarote,
Gran Canaria,
Fuerteventura and
Tenerife.
Professional divers will photograph what they see below the ocean surface and use underwater robots to video at depths of up to 500 metres.
Ricardo Aguilar, director of Oceana Europe, told the news provider: "The Ranger expedition will sail around the main islands to evaluate the state of the already-protected areas, detect risk factors and identify new areas that deserve protection."
Meanwhile, holidaymakers heading to Tenerife this month will have the chance to explore the island's seabed for themselves as part of Aguaviva Canarias 2009.
The event kicks off on August 22nd and aims to promote the underwater world, giving tourists and locals the chance to try free taster diving sessions and take part in beach workshops.
Written by Claire Manning
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