Scientists using HOV Alvin aboard R/V Atlantis discover pristine deep-sea coral reefs in the Galápagos Marine Reserve

Scientists have discovered extensive, ancient deep-sea coral reefs within the Galápagos Marine Reserve (GMR)-the first of their kind ever to be documented inside the marine protected area (MPA) since it was established in 1998. The reef, found at 400-600 meters (1,310-1,970 feet) depth at the summit of a previously unmapped seamount in the central part of the archipelago, supports a breathtaking mix of deep marine life.

Observations were made using the newly upgraded human-occupied vehicle Alvin. Daniel Fornari, marine geologist, and Emeritus Research Scholar at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is a co-lead on the expedition. Read the full press release at whoi.edu.

Other coverage

Gizmodo: See a Newly Discovered 'Pristine' Deep-Sea Coral Reef in the Galápagos

IFL Science: First "Pristine" Deep-Sea Coral Reef Found Off The Galápagos Islands

ON&T: Scientists Discover Pristine Deep-Sea Coral Reefs in the Galápagos Marine Reserve

Smithsonian Magazine: See the Pristine Coral Reefs Found off the Galápagos Islands