Once the DSV Alvin is back on the deck of the R/V Atlantis, the bio boxes containing coral and other biological samples are removed from the sub and taken into the cold room.

Here we are using sterile scissors to remove segments of a Paragorgia, or bubble gum coral, for storage and processing.

Individual samples are put in labeled jars and taken either to the deep freeze, where they are stored at -80º C, or to the fume hood, where they are stored in ethanol or formalin.

Related Links

Gulf of Alaska 2004

Gulf of Alaska 2004: August 16 Log

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery