Friday, May 7, 2010

Day 8 - Mountains under the Sea

Today, our journey took us over two sea mounts that are estimated to be over 4000 meters in height. A sea mount is a mountain underwater that does not touch the surface of the water. The topography of the sea mounts, which are formed by extinct volcanic rock, creates a rich environment for flora and fauna.

Sea mounts are also known to be migratory areas for whales. Among today’s sightings, the visual team reported groups of short-finned Pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), an undetermined specie of whale and some common Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). The acoustic team heard vocalizations of Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) and numerous dolphins.





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