Bottom-up Multi-Ecosystem COnnectivity in and around the Mozambique Channel: From physics and biogeochemistry to top predators connecting the Mnazi-Ruvuma, Quirimbas, Bazaruto, and iSimangaliso MPAs of the WIO region. – MECOWIO

The MECOWIO project aims to understand the complex interactions of combined stressors, including Zambezi River outflow into the Mozambique Channel, mesoscale eddies and dipoles, and extreme events, on the behaviour, distribution, and overall resilience of iconic species in the Mozambique Channel. The project will also assess the implications of these interactions on four Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the region; the Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park in Tanzania, the Quirimbas National Park and Bazaruto Archipelago National Park in Mozambique, and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa. Physical and biogeochemical surveys will be undertaken at the outflow of the Zambezi River, and where possible, at key locations within the four MPAs. These results will be used to validate the CROCO model, allowing for greater understanding of the distribution of particles (e.g. pollutants, nutrients) within the Mozambique Channel and the connectivity between the four MPAs. Of critical importance is the impact of these results on iconic species, such as whale sharks and manta rays, and potentially endemic species of corals, sponges and fish species within the study region.