An extraordinary observation environment
The Mediterranean Sea is one of the world’s top ten biodiversity hotspots. Although it represents only 1% of the total surface area of the oceans, it is home to around 10% of the marine species recorded globally.
With its exceptional marine habitats (Posidonia meadows, scree, cliffs and caves), Marseille’s coastline is home to extraordinary terrestrial and marine biodiversity: 294 species are protected at national level and 140 at regional level.
Marseille’s seabed is particularly well known for its Posidonia meadows. These underwater plants, often referred to as the ‘lungs of the Mediterranean’, play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, providing oxygen and shelter for many species. In addition to seagrass beds, brown and red algae can also be found lining the rocks and reefs, contributing to biological diversity and providing refuges and feeding grounds for marine organisms.
