THE GROTTO OF CALA ROTONDA

The grotto of the neophytes

General Description

At the exit from Cala Rotonda, a charming pathway that provides access to a cave (through alternating polychrome and widely varied passages), can be found on the right hand side. Light effects, semi-dark chambers, colourful pinnacles, and spectacular rock faces provide a thrilling experience for the onlooker. The entrance to the cave can be found at a depth of about 6-8 metres. The area is also of interest for freedivers.

Naturalistic Features

The entrance to the cave is home to pink coralline algae, orange coral, myriapora truncata, and pink and yellow sponges. The inside is colonised by yellow coral (Leptopsammia pruvoti) and Petrosia ficiformis sponge. The grotto is also home to cave crabs. A dim chamber on the right is populated by white sponge (Petrobiona massiliana) and colonial coral (Hoplangia durotrix). The least luminous section is home to Dardanus calidus hermit crabs, Calliactis parasitica anemones, European congers, Bonellia spoon worms, and Palaemon serratus prawns. Brown meagres can be found on the cave’s floors. Brittle stars (or ophiuroids), H. durotrix coral, and red scorpionfish can be found near the walls by the sandy seabed. The rocks outside the cave are predominantly covered by algae and sea grass.

area

Aegadian Islands

itinerary

THE GROTTO OF CALA ROTONDA

position

37° 55,342’ longitude - 012° 16,836’ latitude

license

Type of route

Rock | Sand | Grotto

dive start

from the coast and/of from a boat

Maximum depth

18

path length

Data not available

nature of the bottom

Posidonia | Sand | Rock

Current probability

low

orientation

Easy

level of difficulty

Easy

Type of interest

Naturalistic

Flora and fauna

route subject to authorization

yes

Favignana

THE GROTTO OF CALA ROTONDA

itinerary illustration

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