SubC Imaging’s advanced underwater camera technology played a key role in the discovery of a vibrant and densely populated soft coral garden within the Funk Island Deep marine refuge, northeast of Newfoundland. This rare find was made during a Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University expedition in June 2024, showcasing the immense potential of SubC’s cameras in revealing previously hidden marine ecosystems.

The expedition uncovered a diverse and complex marine ecosystem. The team, including PhD candidate Emmeline Broad from the Marine Institute's 4D Oceans Lab under the supervision of Dr. Katleen Robert, discovered dense populations of soft corals, sponges, basket stars, and anemones across a 10,000-square-metre stretch of seafloor—marking the first time such a habitat has been documented in these waters.

This expedition follows early observations of intriguing seabed features, first noted in 2023 by the Marine Conservation Areas (MCA) project, led by Dr. Jonathan Fisher from the Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER) in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The initial find was made by CFER fisheries technologists Martin Dahl and Robyn Whelan, who were working on a broader mission to explore and conserve Canada’s marine environments.

Breakthrough Imagery

The breakthrough imagery was captured using the BathyCam system, designed and operated by Broad. The BathyCam features SubC Imaging’s specialized Rayfin Benthic underwater camera, capable of delivering high-definition footage in challenging underwater environments. The footage is helping scientists better understand the biodiversity of cold-water coral ecosystems, which are key to supporting marine life.

Cold-water coral gardens, like the one Broad and her team discovered, are rarely found in such shallow waters, making this find particularly unique. While soft corals are abundant in deeper waters of the Northwest Atlantic, their dense concentrations at depths of less than 200 metres surprised researchers.

"This discovery showcases how underwater imaging technology can transform our ability to explore and understand ocean ecosystem. We are thrilled that our cameras are contributing to such groundbreaking research that has the potential to reshape our understanding of marine habitats."

Chad Collett, CEO of SubC Imaging

Advancing Marine Research Globally

SubC Imaging continues to support marine research initiatives globally, providing scientists with the tools they need to explore and protect the world’s oceans. This discovery is a prime example of how advanced imaging technology can facilitate scientific breakthroughs and aid in the conservation of critical marine ecosystems.