Scientists Find 2 Pristine Coral Reefs And New Seamounts In Waters Surrounding Galapagos

The deep sea holds several mysteries for human beings, and that could essentially be a good thing — at least for the preservation and growth of at-risk marine lives.

Researchers have now discovered two deep-sea coral reefs that are situated in the Galápagos Marine Reserve, which have long been pristine and not touched by human explorers.

The reefs happen to be the second discovery in the region in 2023, following a similar type in April this year.

The researchers are on a 30-day exploration trip to the oceans using remotely controlled deepwater robots, with a team spearheaded by Stuart Banks, an oceanographer associated with the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island based in the Galápagos.

The Schmidt Ocean Institute, which is a nonprofit that operates the expedition’s underwater robot dubbed the SuBastian, explained in a news release that cold-water reefs are located at depths that range from 370–420 meters and measure about 800 meters in length and about 250 meters in length.

For more context, about 800 meters is equal to the length of eight football fields.

The amount of living coral in an area is a rare discovery, researchers suggest.

They showcase a rich diversity of coral species, suggesting that they have been forming and supporting marine biodiversity for years, the institute had written.

Dubbed the Cacho De Coral, the zone’s cold waters and dim light — different from the more shallow and warm water reefs many may be familiar with — may explain why these reefs are in great shape as global temperatures continue rising.

The discovery and the mapping of the reefs are not just valuable from a scientific point of view, mentioned Danny Rueda Córdova, the director associated with the Directorate of the Galápagos National Park, in a news release.

It also offers a solid foundation for appropriate decision-making that safeguards the ecosystems, protecting the biological diversity that they harbor and making sure of their resilience in a constantly evolving environment.

The geological dynamics of the region play a vital role in the deep-sea ecosystems. Mapping and research are essential tools to make sure that the Galápagos continue to be a gorgeous instance of the beauty and importance of nature, per Córdova.

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