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Underwater canyons

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Cassidaigne © Ifremer vidéocor 1
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Cassidaigne © Ifremer vidéocor 1

Description

Underwater canyons form deep indentations which travel down to the greatest depths of the sea at more than 1500m down. They allow organic matter and oxygen to circulate between the surface of the sea and the bottom of the sea. Many organisms, in particular sperm whales that come to feed here, enjoy the abundant sea life that can be found at the entrance to these canyons.

Did you know?

In the heart of the Calanques National Park, off the coast of Cassis, the Cassidaigne canyon can be found. This is one of the Mediterranean’s most diversely rich canyons, and is 1300 meters deep.

Main associated species

  • Sperm whale
  • Loggerhead turtle
  • Striped dolphins
  • Fin whale
  • Risso’s dolphin
  • Long-finned pilot whale