Scientists have recently mapped the largest deep-sea coral reef, spanning millions of acres off the Atlantic coast from Florida to South Carolina. This massive reef, which is larger than the state of Vermont, is not currently threatened by coral bleaching but is still at risk due to climate change. The findings were published in the scientific journal Geomatics and highlight the importance of understanding and protecting these unique ecosystems.
The study was conducted as part of a multi-year campaign by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its partners to explore the Blake Plateau. Derek Sowers, the Mapping Operations Manager for the Ocean Exploration Trust and lead author of the study, described the reef as “the largest deep-sea coral mound region in the world that’s been documented so far.” He compared its size to that of Yellowstone National Park, emphasizing its vastness and ecological significance.
The deep-sea coral mounds that make up this reef are shaped like bumps or pinnacles on the seafloor and can range in height from ten feet to hundreds of feet tall. They are formed over long periods of time from the skeletal material of cold-water “stony corals” and sediment trapped by coral rubble. While living corals can be found at the ridges and tops of the mounds, the sides are covered by the dead skeletal framework of the stony corals.
What sets this deep-sea coral reef apart from shallow-water reefs, such as the Great Barrier Reef, is its biological composition and reliance on filter-feeding. The corals in deep-sea reefs are biologically different because they are located at depths where sunlight cannot reach them. As a result, they do not rely on photosynthesis but instead capture filter-feeding particles that descend through the water column. This unique adaptation allows them to thrive in complete darkness.
Unlike shallow-water reefs, which face coral bleaching due to rising water temperatures, deep-water reefs are not directly affected by this phenomenon. However, they are still vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including changing water temperatures and ocean acidity. Sowers emphasized the need to manage these factors to ensure the long-term functioning of these ecosystems.
The mapping of this deep-sea coral reef was made possible by advancements in technology, specifically the use of multi-beam sonars mounted on research ships. These sonars create detailed maps of the ocean floor, guiding the exploration of the reef using submersibles. The dives were broadcasted live to the public, allowing anyone with an internet connection to witness the exploration in real-time.
The discovery of this massive deep-sea coral reef highlights the importance of further exploration and understanding of our oceans. With approximately 75% of the world’s oceans still unmapped in high resolution, there is much more to discover and protect. The findings also underscore the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on marine ecosystems. By taking action to mitigate climate change and manage the changing waters, we can ensure the preservation of these unique and vital ecosystems for future generations.
