The hidden mountain beneath the sea turning a Latin American country into guardian of an invisible giant
Although towering mountains are usually found in mountain ranges or volcanoes, some of the most extraordinary giants remain hidden beneath the sea. Scientists have turned their attention to an underwater mountain that stands out not only for its size but also for its crucial role in ocean life and Earth’s stability.
The submerged giant off the coast of Chile
It rises more than 3,100 meters from its base, reaching a summit located 994 meters below sea level. With an extension of around 70 km², it is one of the tallest underwater structures ever identified, comparable in height to mountains visible on the surface. This impressive giant is not just a geological curiosity. Its location and characteristics make it a natural regulator of ocean currents, influencing marine dynamics that affect much of the southeastern Pacific.
A refuge of life in the depths
Far from being an uninhabited landscape, the mountain is covered by deep-sea ecosystems that host organisms as fragile as they are fascinating. Coral gardens and sponges provide refuge to rare species like the squid Promachoteuthis and the so-called “Casper” octopus. Rockfish, starfish, and king crabs also thrive on its slopes, creating a biological mosaic that turns this mountain into a natural laboratory for scientists. Each expedition reveals new clues about the resilience and fragility of life in extreme conditions.
The strategic value of exploring the unknown
The exploration and study of this underwater mountain reinforce an essential idea: much of the Earth’s oceans remain unexplored territory. In the case of Chile, it is an ecological and scientific heritage that places the country at the center of the global conversation on marine conservation. The highest underwater mountain in South America is also a reminder that beneath the surface, giants that sustain the planet’s life are still hidden. Exploring them is more than just a curiosity; it is an urgency to understand and protect the future of Earth.
