This Earth Day, dive into a local offshore oasis and discover the hidden wonders of the deep-sea world in our very own blue backyard. đ޸â¨ď¸
Many mysteries persist in the oceanâs depths, but MBARIâs pioneering technology is shedding light on the thriving communities living in Sur Ridge, a large underwater geologic feature located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Monterey and 30 kilometers (19 miles) off Point Sur. This rocky ridge rises 500 meters (1,640 feet) above the seafloor and is a hotspot for marine life.
One of the most striking features of Sur Ridge is the abundance of corals and sponges on its rocky slopes. Corals and sponges need hard substrate for attachment, so seamounts, rocky ridges, and submarine canyons are ideal hubs for these sessile invertebrates. In turn, these sponge and coral communities provide shelter for many fishes and invertebrates that live on Sur Ridgeâs rocky slopes and in the waters above its crests.
MBARI technology is visualizing our planetâs hidden underwater landscapes. Our work is helping scientists better understand these communities and monitor ocean health, including the impacts of climate change on the marine animals that call Sur Ridge home.â
We invite you to relax, explore, and connect to the deep seaâone of Earthâs living treasures.
