THIS southern resort has hosted the first scientific forum dedicated to the La Montaña Roja nature reserve and the “sismitas” rock channels.

The initiative brought together leading experts, geologists and biologists and turned attention on the unique qualities of this area of Granadilla.

Council officials have long argued the need to raise awareness of the 'sismitas' and to educate the public about their conservation as many have been destroyed simply due to ignorance.

The event included discussions, seminars, a photographic exhibition and a guided tour.

The 'sismitas' were caused by a huge earthquake between 3,500 and 10,000 years ago when the sand and water were compressed into dramatic patterns and fossils.

Progress and modernisation have also taken their toll as some of the 'sismitas' were destroyed in the 1970s when the south motorway was constructed.