Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery off the US Atlantic coast, uncovering the largest known deep-sea coral reef. This remarkable finding was made possible through the use of new underwater mapping technology, which allowed researchers to construct 3D images of the ocean floor. While the presence of coral off the Atlantic has been known since the 1960s, the true extent of this reef remained a mystery until now.
The massive deep-sea coral reef stretches for approximately 310 miles (500km) from Florida to South Carolina, with some points reaching a width of 68 miles (110km). In terms of size, it is nearly three times larger than Yellowstone National Park. The discovery has left scientists astounded by its scale and beauty. Stuart Sandin, a marine biologist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, who was not involved in the study, described it as “eye-opening” and “breathtaking”.
Unlike tropical coral reefs that rely on photosynthesis for growth, deep-sea coral reefs survive in depths ranging from 655 feet to 3,280 feet (200 to 1,000 meters), where sunlight cannot penetrate. These corals must filter food particles from the water to obtain energy. The reef provides a vital habitat for a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, swordfish, sea stars, octopuses, shrimp, and various species of fish.
While tropical reefs are more well-known to scientists and accessible to snorkelers and divers, this discovery highlights the importance of exploring and understanding deep-sea ecosystems. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the world’s largest tropical coral reef system, stretches for about 1,430 miles (2,300km). However, deep-sea reefs cover a larger portion of the ocean floor.
The significance of this finding extends beyond its sheer size and beauty. Deep-sea coral reefs, like their tropical counterparts, are vulnerable to climate change and disturbance from activities such as oil and gas drilling. Erik Cordes, a marine biologist at Temple University and co-author of the study, emphasized the need for conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.
Derek Sowers, an oceanographer at the non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust, believes that this discovery is just the beginning. With only about 25% of the world’s ocean floor mapped in high resolution, there is a high possibility of finding even larger deep-sea reefs in the future. The mapping of the ocean floor relies on high-resolution sonar devices carried on ships, and advancements in technology will continue to unveil the mysteries of the deep.
The discovery of this massive deep-sea coral reef serves as a reminder of the vast and diverse ecosystems that exist beneath the surface of our oceans. It highlights the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts to protect these fragile environments from the threats they face. As scientists delve deeper into the mysteries of the ocean, who knows what other wonders await us beneath the waves.