Marine Life Moves Deeper to Escape Threats
New findings spark hope that endangered species are more abundant than previously thought.
Until recently scientists have been limited in their exploration of the ocean by depths SCUBA divers can safely travel. And deep water submersible vehicles tend to focus on the deep ocean, below 500 feet. So the in between areas of 200-500 feet remain largely unknown.
But recent advances in technical diving and rebreathers is allowing a new glimpse at low-light reefs, where much to scientists surprise life is thriving. In fact, rare and endangered species are doing well deeper down than those in shallow waters.
Scientists caution that the excitement of this discovery is tempered by looming threats of pollution, overfishing and climate change that could begin hurting this healthy ecosystem. They say that fish may be retreating to deeper depths as their habitats become inhospitable.
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