In September 2014, NOAA Fisheries published a federal register notice that listed seven coral species as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Understanding life history and the effects of climate change on these species is crucial to protect them. This storyboard explores what life history means and why it’s important, how life history and climate… Continue Reading Life History and Climate Change Impact to ESA-listed Corals
The ivory tree coral (Oculina varicosa) can be found in shallow and deep waters. In shallow waters, it is often patchily distributed on coarse shelly reef. However, in deeper water, it can occur as a massive, bush-like aggregation. Oculina reefs typically occur in regions on the shelf edge where water flows upward from depth. It… Continue Reading A closer look at the Ivory Tree Coral
Lophelia pertusa is a prominent deep-sea coral in the Gulf of Mexico and one that plays a significant role in the designation of Habitat Areas of Particular Concern. So, it’s going to be the first in a series of deep-water corals we’ll be profiling in storyboards.We’re going to dig in a little deeper to find out… Continue Reading Lophelia pertusa: A Closer Look
Want to go for a swim? How about down around 1,300 feet? You’re going to need a submarine for that, so unless you’re friends with Elon Musk or James Cameron it’s probably not going to happen, BUT… you CAN go exploring with the crew of the R/V Nancy Foster, which sent down an ROV to… Continue Reading NOAA Southeast Deep Coral Initiative
Did you know that as of March 2011, the Gulf of Mexico had 295 marine protected areas? But not all of these are created equally – they can have varying levels of regulation and are managed by different organizations. Needless to say, marine protected areas can be a confusing topic. This storyboard aims to clear… Continue Reading Let’s Talk Closed Areas
