the southeastern coast of the US. This monumental find, surpassing the size of Vermont, unfolded on the Blake Plateau, 100 miles from the US coast, transforming what was once perceived as sparsely inhabited soft sediment into a colossal undersea marvel teeming with life in an overlooked realm.
‘Photo from Google
Unveiling the Hidden Marvel
The unparalleled discovery, named “Million Mounds,” emerged after over a decade of exhaustive exploration, encompassing 31 multibeam sonar mapping surveys and 23 submersible dives. Meticulous efforts resulted in an almost complete map of the seafloor, revealing 83,908 individual coral mound peak features. This vast underwater paradise, rivaling the size of Florida, stretches up to 310 miles long and 68 miles wide, with a densely populated core area spanning 158 miles long and 26 miles wide.
Primarily composed of the resilient stone coral Desmophyllum pertusum, “Million Mounds” thrives at depths of 656 to 3,280 feet, beyond the reach of sunlight. Despite the challenging conditions, this ecosystem serves as a bustling hub for marine life, hosting a diverse array of corals, sponges, invertebrates, and fish.
The profound significance of this discovery extends beyond its sheer size, providing insights into the mysteries of the ocean depths and highlighting the vital role played by these corals in sustaining a thriving ecosystem.
A Treasure Trove Beneath the Waves
As the world unravels the secrets of the deep ocean, this extraordinary find stands as a testament to the staggering diversity and vitality concealed beneath the waves. Scientists and researchers, through unwavering dedication, have unearthed a treasure trove of unparalleled significance, exposing the interconnected web of life flourishing in unexpected corners of our planet’s oceans.
This monumental discovery heralds a new era of appreciation and understanding for the mesmerizing world lying beneath the waves, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts in unlocking the mysteries of Earth’s largest and least-explored ecosystem.
