Dive 14 explored seafloor habitats at 319-398 meters (1,047-1,306 feet), and the dive site was marked by a striking diversity and density of sponges, particularly of those known as glass sponges (class Hexactinellida) and rock sponges (Lithistid demosponges). These two groups of sponges are very ancient and are known to have been major reef-builders throughout the Paleozoic and Mesozoic Eras (65-542 millions years ago). At present, these sponges are mostly found in deep waters (below 200 meters or 656 feet), as only a few representatives of these groups occur in shallower depths, where they are typically found inside caves.

Text contributed by Joana Xavier, University of Bergen.