A comprehensive investigation of mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Hawaiian Archipelago.

ABSTRACT: Although the existence of coral-reef habitats at depths to 165 m in tropical regions has been known for decades, the richness, diversity, and ecological importance of mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) has only recently become widely acknowledged. During an interdisciplinary effort spanning more than two decades, we characterized the most expansive MCEs ever recorded, with vast macroalgal communities and areas of 100% coral cover between depths of 50-90 m extending for tens of km² in the Hawaiian Archipelago. We used a variety of sensors and techniques to establish geophysical characteristics. Biodiversity patterns were established from visual and video observations and collected specimens obtained from submersible, remotely operated vehicles and mixed-gas SCUBA and rebreather d

SUBMITTER: Pyle RL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5068450 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature