June 2, 2020: Rebroadcast

Deep Connections 2019: Exploring Atlantic Canyons and Seamounts of the United States and Canada

Dive 01: Gully Canyon

Date: August 29, 2019

Location: Lat: 43.89978°, Lon: -58.94058°

Dive Depth Range: 1,087 - 1,323 meters (3,570 - 4,342 feet)

On the first dive of the Deep Connections 2019 expedition, we explored the Gully Marine Protected Area (MPA), which lies 200 kilometers (~125 miles) off Nova Scotia, Canada, and protects the largest submarine canyon in the Western North Atlantic. Established in 2004, the Gully MPA was one of the highest priority exploration areas for science and management partners from Canada.

During the dive, we saw and learned quite a bit about deep-sea canyon geology and also documented very high-density communities of corals and sponges along the previously unexplored eastern flank of the canyon. Additionally, the team collected five biological specimens, all of which represent either new species or new records for the region. The stunningly diverse and dense array of marine life seen throughout the dive will provide greater insights into this protected submarine canyon.

The ocean knows no boundaries!