Sanctuary Science
Marine protected areas like Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument are hotbeds of biologic activity. Exploring deep waters with a remotely operated vehicle, the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research discovered a potential new species of octopod two and a half miles beneath the ocean surface. Unlike most described species of octopods, this one is equipped with only a single row of suckers down each arm, in contrast to the two rows most octopods have. Photos: NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Hohonu Moana 2016
The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary whale tagging boat got a treat when a humpback whale breached near them. Photo: Ari Friedlaender/NOAA Fisheries permit #14245
Marine technology like submersibles can help scientists survey deep ecosystems like those in Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kip Evans/NOAA
R/V Manta is used primarily as a research platform, conducting monitoring activities in the waters of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Photo: NOAA
Documenting history: divers from the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and Eastern Carolina University photograph the German U-boat U-352 off the coast of Morehead City, North Carolina. Photo: NOAA