Black corals are among the most emblematic organisms of the Mediterranean Sea, growing at depths of over 50 metres and forming true underwater forests of white, flowing branches swaying with the current. Despite their bright white appearance, their skeleton is jet black, a feature that gives them their name. Known scientifically as antipatharians, from the Greek “anti pathos” meaning “against suffering”, these corals were once believed to hold protective powers and were used to make amulets warding off illness and misfortune.

Antipathella subpinnata is the most commonly found species in our sea, though not the only one. Sadly, these ecologically important animals are now under serious threat from climate change, ocean acidification, rising sea temperatures, and seabed pollution caused by human activities, fishing being among the most damaging.

With “Anti pathos – Black Coral of the Med”, a project born from the collaboration between Marevivo, marine biologist and National Geographic Explorer Giovanni Chimienti, and the University of Bari Aldo Moro, we aim to actively engage our volunteers and technical divers in reporting and monitoring black coral in the Mediterranean.

The goal of Anti Pathos is to observe and map the distribution of these extraordinary organisms, building a comprehensive picture of their presence in the Mediterranean so they can be better protected. To do this, we need your help!

If you or your friends are divers or technical divers, you can support this citizen science initiative by filling out this Google form or writing to: avvistamenti@marevivo.it. Your reports will help us better understand the species’ distribution and conservation status.