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Deep-sea Corals

Not all corals are found on island coasts in shallow seas. In fact, over half of all known coral species are found in deep, dark waters where temperatures range from 4-12°C (39-54°F). For this reason, we call these corals the "cold-water" or "deep-sea" corals. They are found all over the world.

Choose from the sections below to further explore ocean exploration education resources on deep-sea corals.

Jump to Section Lessons Fact Sheets Exploration Notes Ocean Facts Deep-sea Dialogues Expeditions Images and Videos

Lessons

These selected ocean exploration lessons were developed by educators and scientists to demonstrate key deep-sea coral concepts. Lessons support the Next Generation Science Standards and the Ocean Literacy Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts. (Note: The links provided in lessons are verified at the time of publication, but over time, may change or become obsolete.)

Bathymetry image of the "Million Mounds" coral region.
Student Investigation: Feeding the Million Mounds of Deep-Sea Coral

Grade Level: 6-8
Focus: Life Science/Ecosystem Dynamics

Students analyze and interpret data from the Million Mounds coral region of the southeastern U.S. including currents and plankton movement to explain the phenomenon: How do the deep-sea corals of the Million Mounds region get the food they need to grow and reproduce?
White deep-sea coral field with an orange crab climbing on the coral
Student Investigation: Laying the Foundation for Deep-Sea Coral Gardens

Grade Level: 9-12
Focus: Life Science/Ecosystem Dynamics

Students use data and images from deep-sea coral gardens to construct an explanation for the deep-sea phenomenon: How does the presence of Lophelia pertusa affect other organisms in a deep-sea coral ecosystem?
photo of collage of deep coral sea life
Deep Coral Communities Curriculum

Grade Level: 9-12
Focus: Life Science/Ecosystem Dynamics

Students investigate the unique biology of deep-sea corals and learn to identify soft corals, hard corals, invertebrates and fish found within these communities; view real scientific transects taken with Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), while recording data on the presence of specified species; and graph and analyze their data to evaluate community composition.

Additional Deep-sea Corals Resources

Fact Sheets
Exploration Notes - Field Stories
Ocean Facts

These items are only a selection of the educational materials highlighting deep-sea corals on our website.

For more lessons and background information explore the Deep Ocean Education Project Website.

Searching for something? Email us: oceanexeducation@noaa.gov