Potential new findsAlthough most of the target species are already known, some may yet be discovered during the expeditions.With 4,500 species studied, out of the approximately 12,000 recorded in metropolitan France, "we will have a vision of all the major groups that make up marine biodiversity", said Patrick Wincker, co-director of ATLASea.They will be stored in a database that will make it possible to trace the evolution of biological processes, as well as to compare genetic variations.- Spike in surface temperature in Mediterranean threatens marine wildlife- Why the Congo plays a critical role in saving the world's biodiversityIn threatened species, such as large marine mammals like whales and dolphins, genetic diversity is decreasing."Often, before a species disappears, we realise that it is in danger because of this decrease," which makes it more vulnerable to changes in the environment, explains Wincker."