Predicted deep-sea coral species richness and biodiversity hotspots across American Samoa. Expected richness was estimated by combining species-level habitat suitability predictions from species distribution models. Cooler-to-lighter colors indicate increasing expected richness, while orange and red cells identify the global top 5% and top 1% hotspot classes. The dashed contour indicates the 3,000-meter (1.86-mile) depth limit. These predictions represent modeled patterns of potential deep-sea coral diversity rather than direct observations. Data collected during the 2026 American Samoa ROV + Mapping Exploration expedition will be integrated into these models as they are refined.