This large white coral (genus Parastenella) was seen supporting dozens of brittle stars and at least one basket star and shrimp. The coral was at least 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) in width. Scientists noted that all the corals in the area were facing the same direction, indicating a steady current. The scene was captured during Dive 06 of the Seascape Alaska 5 expedition.
White Coral
Image courtesy of NOAA Ocean Exploration, Seascape Alaska. Download larger version (jpg, 13.5 MB).

This large white coral (genus Parastenella) was seen supporting dozens of brittle stars and at least one basket star and shrimp. The coral was at least 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) in width. Scientists noted that all the corals in the area were facing the same direction, indicating a steady current. The scene was captured during Dive 06 of the Seascape Alaska 5 expedition.