More than 30 new species of sea slugs, sea urchins and soft corals have been discovered in the Verde Island Passage, between the provinces of Batangas and Mindoro, proving the area’s significance as “the center of the center” of marine biodiversity in the world. The Filipino-American team of marine experts, led by zoologist Dr. Terry Gosliner of the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), recently returned from a marine expedition in the Verde Island Passage, which led to the discovery of 30 nudibranch species, two sea urchins, and several new species of soft corals. Verde Island Passage has been a long time regional focus of multiple expeditions by the Academy, as it is the most biologically diverse water in the world.

Marine team discovers 30 new species off Verde Island. (2017, July 27). Manila Bulletin, p. B-9.