This is an up-close view of Madrepora, one of the hard coral species found at the Coral Garden. This area is one of the deepest high-density coral sites that we have discovered in the Gulf of Mexico. Madrepora, along with Lophelia that can be seen in the background here, create extensive habitats for a number of different species including the crabs perched on top the Madrepora and the sea anemones in the background. These organisms set this community apart from the other seep communities nearby. Video/Audio courtesy of Erik Cordes, Harvard University, Expedition to the Deep Slope 2007, NOAA-OE.

 

Related Links

Expedition to the Deep Slope 2007

Expedition to the Deep Slope 2007: June 24 Log

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery