Hidden underneath the waves, sea life is enchanting. Warm-water coral reefs, in particular, are among the most incredible natural wonders one can witness. Given their complexity and beauty, it’s no surprise that coral reefs are often referred to as "the rainforests of the sea."
Here we should mention that some of the most amazing tropical coral reefs include the mysterious Great Barrier Reef, the Belize Barrier Reef, the Red Sea coral reefs, the Raja Ampat coral reefs in Indonesia, and the Shark Fin Reef in Thailand.
Did you know, though, that cold-water coral reefs also exist? Cold-water corals can be found in international waters and different beautiful countries, including Norway, the UK, Spain, the US, Japan, Canada, Columbia, and Australia. Even though deep-water corals can’t be explored easily, tech innovations today allow scientists and deep-sea divers to study the mysteries of the ocean.
So, here is why cold-water corals are worth exploring, too.
10 Cold-Water Corals Prefer The Chilly Depths Of The Ocean
Even though tropical coral reefs are fascinating, we shouldn’t forget that their cold-water cousins are also extraordinary. In fact, cold-water coral reefs can be found in all the oceans across the globe. While tropical corals can’t live in water temperatures below 68F, cold-water corals thrive in cold temperatures. Here we should note that some deep-water corals tolerate water temperatures as low as 29F, as per Dive Training.
9 They Can Be Found At The Bottom Of Fjords
Given the fact that cold-water corals enjoy cold temperatures, it’s no surprise that these ancient corals can be found at the bottom of fjords. One of the most popular places to see cold-water corals is the Trondheim Fjord in Norway. In fact, 30% of all Lophelia pertusa corals live off the incredibly stunning Norway coast. According to Blueye Robotics, the scientific interest in these amazing coral formations can be traced back to the 18th century.
8 Some Cold-Water Corals Can Thrive In Tropical Conditions At Greater Depths
Cold-water corals are amazing creatures. While they thrive in cold temperatures, some can live in tropical conditions at greater depths. Note that most cold-water corals can live at depths between 660 feet and 3,300 feet; some can be found even at 21,000 feet. That said, some cold-water corals can live in shallow waters (132 feet), like the beautiful cold-water species found in California (as per Dive Training).
7 Deep-Sea Corals Have Larger Tentacles
Did you know that all corals have polyps with tentacles to feed? Besides, tropical corals need symbiotic algae to produce energy via photosynthesis. As cold-water corals thrive in low temperatures, dark conditions, and at great depths, they do not have symbiotic algae that harvest light. As a result, deep-water corals have longer tentacles to help them catch plankton and other microorganisms.
6 Cold-Water Corals Can Live For Thousands Of Years
Both tropical and cold-water corals are amazing species. According to Coral, most of the coral reefs around the world are between 5,000 and 10,000 years old; they are some of the oldest living creatures ever. Note that some massive corals grow slowly (0.2-1 inch per year). Research shows that cold-water coral colonies are older than warm-water corals and can thrive to an incredible age.
5 Lophelia Reefs Extend The European Continental Margin
From stony corals to sea fans, there are different types of corals around the world. One of the most incredible cold-water coral groups is Lophelia pertusa. These corals can form reefs; interestingly, Lophelia pertusa reefs extend for more than 2,800 miles along the European continental margin. In comparison, the Great Barrier Reef is 1,200 miles. Lophelia corals can be found in different parts of the world, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean Sea.
4 Some Reef-Building Species Can Be Found In The Caribbean Sea And The Gulf Of Mexico
Although the Caribbean islands are often referred to as a real tropical paradise, we should mention that cold-water corals can be found in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Some colonies form mounds that can live for centuries. Interestingly enough, the amazing Oculina Habitat of Particular Concern off the coast of Florida was one of the first protected cold-water coral areas in the world.
3 There Are Also Black Corals
Cold-water corals come in all shapes and sizes. Black corals, in particular, are among the most attractive species across the globe. Interestingly, according to Air to Hawaii, black coral was designated as the gemstone of Hawaii. Black corals have been used for the manufacturing of necklaces and other jewelry for decades. Luckily, new regulations limit the harvesting of black corals.
2 Both Warm And Cold-Water Corals Provide Vital Habitat For Species
Because cold-water corals live at greater depths, it’s not easy to experience their magic. Yet, just because we can’t see them, that doesn’t mean they are not important. Both warm and cold water corals form vital habitats for seas stars, fishes, and other species (perhaps many still unknown to science). On top of that, coral reefs protect coastlines from storms and provide us with different recreational activities.
1 These Ancient Creatures Are Highly Vulnerable
Unfortunately, both warm and cold water corals are highly vulnerable. Many deep-sea operations and oil drilling technologies can have a detrimental effect on deep-water coral reefs. Fishing methods can also harm corals across the globe. Most of all, global warming puts ecosystems and societies at risk. So, what does the future hold for the beautiful world underneath the waves?