This compilation presents some of the awe-inspiring corals spotted on our exploration in the region of Johnston Atoll including a gorgeous I4-clade candelabra-shaped bamboo coral which reminds us of a tiara, vibrant purple Victorgorgia, and pink bamboo corals- some as tall as ROV Hercules itself! Accompanied by associates like brittle stars, snake stars, and sea pens, our scientists estimate that some of these corals may be hundreds of years old. Watch the video for a taste of the beautiful and diverse ocean seafloor in this region of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM).
The unique location of Johnston Atoll will hopefully answer many questions about the patterns of geologic formation and biological diversity of the Central Pacific. Questions remain about how genetic information flows from region to region and the protected status of seamounts in the US Exclusive Economic Zone of PRIMNM make them a conserved study site for interconnected ecosystems from shallow ocean to the deep sea.
Learn more about this expedition funded by NOAA Ocean Exploration via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute: https://nautl.us/3Hx5pZE
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