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Seals Seek Refuge in Hidden Underwater Caves
17 Jun
Summary
- Rare Mediterranean monk seals use submerged bubble caves for rest.
- Tourism disturbance forces seals into hidden underwater sanctuaries.
- Study highlights need to include bubble caves in conservation planning.
The Mediterranean monk seal, a critically endangered marine mammal, has adapted to evade human disturbance by seeking refuge in previously undocumented submerged bubble caves. Once accustomed to resting on open beaches, these seals have been progressively pushed into sea caves due to coastal development and human activity.
However, even these traditional refuges are compromised by tourism. A 2026 study revealed that some monk seals are now utilizing completely flooded underwater chambers, dubbed "bubble caves," which are virtually undetectable to humans. These unique habitats, discovered on Greece's Formicula islet, offer breathable air pockets but no dry land.
Research conducted between 2020 and 2021 showed seals using the bubble cave 84% of the time, prioritizing it over traditional caves with dry resting areas. This suggests seals willingly sacrifice comfort for the essential element of freedom from human disturbance. This finding necessitates the inclusion of such unconventional habitats in future conservation efforts.
