Changing Seas S01E03 · Corals of the Deep

Overview

In the deep waters off Florida's Atlantic coast grow magnificent structures, capable of reaching 300 feet in height. These are the corals of the deep sea. Porcelain-white and centuries old, few humans have seen these delicate reefs. The Ivory Tree Coral, Oculina varicosa, and Lophelia pertusa flourish in harsh, sunless environments, yet these branch-like formations provide food and shelter for a variety of deep water organisms. Rich in biodiversity, this mysterious underwater kingdom is threatened by destructive fishing practices such as bottom trawling. However, a recently proposed 23,000 square mile marine protected area could save these fragile reefs from ruin.

Torrents

Subtitles

Episodes

1. 1 1. Super Grouper2009-01-27At a time when large fish are rapidly disappearing from the world's oceans, one giant is making a comeback in Florida. The Goliath Grouper was facing extinction when it became a pr
2. 2 2. Mission to Inner Space2009-02-03NOAA's Aquarius Reef Base is the only undersea research station operating in the world today. Located just three and a half miles offshore from Key Largo, Florida, at a depth of 60
3. 3 3. Corals of the Deep2009-06-23In the deep waters off Florida's Atlantic coast grow magnificent structures, capable of reaching 300 feet in height. These are the corals of the deep sea. Porcelain-white and centu
4. 4 4. Farming the Sea2009-06-30An ever-growing demand for fresh seafood has pushed wild stocks around the world to the brink. Aquaculture is one alternative to meet the increasing need for fish and crustaceans.