Accompanying us on the Rangitāhua voyage was NIWA scientist Roberta D’Archino. A leading researcher in New Zealand’s macroalgae, Roberta was excited to see undescribed species and reproductively active individuals not seen before. Amongst Rangitāhua’s macroalgae we observed fish larvae, crabs, worms, sea stars, urchins and more. Together these small scale organisms and the seaweeds they live on, provide a foundation for the surrounding ecosystems of Rangitāhua.
By identifying organisms in the environment and understanding the roles they play, we will monitor the health of Rangitāhua over time, and help it remain a pristine environment. The sustainable and local management of this ecosystem will ensure its longevity into the future.
Macroalgae Delisea pulchra