Study highlights biodiversity of Philippines Benham Bank

MANILA, Philippines — A study conducted by the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UPMSI) highlighted Benham Bank’s rich biodiversity and unspoiled reefscape.

The study, titled “Benthic structuring of the mesophotic coral ecosystem on the Benham Bank seamount in the Philippines,” presented details of Benham Bank’s full potential.

The UPMSI said Benham Bank, located 50 meters below the sea surface on the eastern coast of Luzon, is an underwater seamount higher than Mt. Apo.

It said Benham Bank possesses one of the richest mesophotic or deep coral ecosystems in the Philippines.

“Seamounts are known for having high biodiversity and unique benthic or seafloor structure. Seamounts enhance ocean productivity and are considered biodiversity hotspots,” UPMSI researcher Joey Cabasan said.

The study showed the coral cover across the 50- to 80-meter depth range of Benham Bank is higher than tropical mesophotic coral ecosystems found on other isolated seamounts as well as those closer to the Philippines.

Typically, the live hard coral cover on mesophotic reefs is poor, but Benham Bank is able to maintain its high hard coral cover, the UPMSI said.

“The Benham Bank is resilient to physical and thermal stress. A stratification or layers with different water properties protects it from the effects of stress,” Cabasan said.

He said that through stratification, the upper 40-meter layer creates a barrier that prevents it from getting mixed with the lower layer to provide protection.

The study said that Benham Bank, although located away from the mainland, is beneficial to Filipinos as it is home to more than 60 reef-associated fish species, including snappers, emperors, groupers, trevallies and surgeon fish.

Benham Bank can be reached through a three-day sea travel.