Live-bottom reef habitat of Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary

Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary protects one of the largest near-shore “live-bottom” reefs in the southeast United States. Learn about this amazing ecosystem in this video!
Photo: NOAA

Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary protects one of the largest near-shore “live-bottom” reefs in the southeast United States.

“Live-bottom” refers to the dense carpet of living creatures on the seafloor, composed of soft corals, sponges, sea squirts, and other organisms.

They help feed more than 200 species of fish, which use the reef’s nooks and crevices as shelter.

The sanctuary was designated in 1981 to protect this unique environment and spans 22 square miles.

If you are ocean diving near Savannah or Brunswick, Georgia, witness the diversity and beauty of nature at Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary.

Note: This video was produced for NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, which is a trustee and protector of America’s most iconic underwater parks and marine resources.

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