Navigating Life 

. ​This project aims to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) samples, perform daily biochemical profiling, and conduct observations during a transatlantic crossing between Guadeloupe and the Azores, in May 2026. By integrating molecular tools, biochemical environmental parameters, and systematic visual monitoring, we seek to provide a comprehensive biodiversity snapshot and ecosystem health, in this key Atlantic corridor.

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What is the context of this research?

 

The open ocean between Guadeloupe and the Azores is a vast and relatively understudied area ecologically critical for many species, including cetaceans that act as ocean sentinels. While environmental DNA approaches have expanded rapidly in coastal zones, extending these techniques across large oceanic transects combined with biochemical and observational data remains rare. Characterizing the biochemical environment daily during the voyage provides essential context for interpreting biodiversity patterns and ecosystem dynamics. Continuous marine megafauna observations by a Marine Mammal Observer, alongside detailed plastic pollution records, enrich the ecological dataset for this unique oceanic passage.

 

What is the significance of this project?

 

By integrating multiple approaches this project will provide critical insights into species distribution, ecosystem connectivity, and the influence of anthropogenic pressures in the Atlantic Ocean. Daily eDNA sampling will enable real-time monitoring of biodiversity throughout the crossing. Marine mammals, as sentinel species, will be systematically observed to assess ecosystem status. The inclusion of continuous plastic pollution monitoring further highlights human impacts on this vital corridor. Biochemical profiling of environmental parameters will enhance our understanding of the relationships between biodiversity patterns and environmental stressors. Together, the results will generate comprehensive data essential for guiding conservation strategies and management policies in these ecologically significant oceanic regions, which serve as migration pathways for numerous species (e.g. Lydersen et al, 2025; Horton et al, 2022).

 

What are the goals of the project?

 

The goal of the expedition, crossing from Guadeloupe to Azores is:

• to perform daily biochemical measurements of the marine environment throughout the transatlantic crossing to characterize key physicochemical parameters.

• to collect environmental DNA samples daily, in duplicate, enabling robust biodiversity assessments across multiple taxa.

• to conduct continuous observations of marine megafauna by a trained Marine Mammal Observer, documenting species diversity, abundance, and behavior.

• Collect acoustic data while we encounter animals

• to systematically record plastic debris encountered during the voyage, quantifying pollution levels across the Atlantic corridor.

• to integrate biochemical, molecular, and observational data to improve knowledge of ecosystem health, species connectivity, and anthropogenic impacts.

• to disseminate results through scientific publications and outreach, contributing to marine conservation science and awareness.​