Divers take part in biodiversity protection efforts in Gulf of Izmit

By Tahsin Ceylan

KOCAELI, Türkiye (AA) - Divers swam into the waters of the Gulf of Izmit in northwestern Türkiye as part of biodiversity protection efforts.

As part of conservation efforts led by the city of Kocaeli, a host of sea organisms were observed, including corals, sea anemones, sea stars, sea pens, and mollusks.

Anadolu’s underwater cinematographer Tahsin Ceylan and his team dove to the designated points on the coastline with the support of the Kocaeli Coast Guard Command.

The team, examining the ecosystem in the area, captured footage of corals, sea anemones, starfish, sea pens, and mollusks. Ceylan and the Municipality administration continue their efforts to include the region, which is home to many species and has an undisturbed ecosystem, in the "Promotion and Protection Area."

“The Eskihisar coast is a protected area with a unique ecosystem where species are not harmed and there is minimal boat anchoring. There are healthy populations of corals, sea anemones, starfish, sea pens, and mollusks. We want to include this area in the 'Promotion and Protection Area’,” Ceylan further said.

Researchers dedicated their studies to famed Ottoman-era painter and archaeologist Osman Hamdi Bey who is recognized as a pioneer in preserving underwater cultural heritage.