Irish scientists find deep sea coral reef in Atlantic Ocean around 300 miles off west coast of Ireland

Date: July 23, 2018

Source: Irish Mirror
Author: Niall O’Connor

Irish scientists have made a ground-breaking discovery of a deep sea coral reef in the Atlantic Ocean.

A research expedition by the Marine Institute uncovered the rare growth in previously unmapped Irish waters around 300 miles off the west coast.

Scientists located a type of black coral which may be an entirely new species and they believe their research has proven the deep waters are a haven for unique life forms.

David O’Sullivan, who led the SeaRover survey, said his team’s discovery will be critical
to understanding the Irish sea environment.

He added: “We are very pleased to discover what appear to be new coral species and a rare sponge reef – neither of which have been previously documented in Irish waters.

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Posted on Categories General Science