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Submersible Explores Vancouver Glass Sponge Reefs for First Time

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The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) began a week long expedition earlier this week to the glass sponge reefs of Vancouver, BC’s Howe Sound in a 3-person submersible, the first mission undertaken to explore what scientists have dubbed “living fossils.”

Glass sponges are found worldwide, but they are unique to BC in that they continue to grow over the skeletons of dead sponges to create enormous deep water reefs along the continental shelf. Their “glass” skeletons are formed through high levels of dissolved silica in the water, and they thrive on the nutrient-rich cold water upwellings that are typical to the region.

The first glass sponge was discovered in 1986, when scientists unwittingly came across a 9,000 year old specimen standing 8 stories high. Until then, scientists had no idea the species was still extant; they only knew glass sponge reefs as fossils from 160 million years ago. Subsequent research has revealed that glass sponge reefs proliferate the waters around British Columbia, with more than 280 square miles of reef revealed and scientists expecting to discover more.

 

Source: www.aquaviews.net

Gear Reviews

GEAR REVIEW: JOBY SeaPal Underwater Housing for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy (Watch Video)

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JOBY SeaPal

In a video shot exclusively for Scubaverse.com, Jeff Goodman reviews the JOBY SeaPal underwater housing for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones.

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Four opportunities to go pro in 2024 with Dive Friends Bonaire

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idc

Dive Friends teaches the Instructor Development Course (IDC) several times a year to students who are eager to share their passion for diving with the world.

Dive Friends is known for the personal approach throughout the course. Their in-house course director will lead the students through every essential step, mentoring them to achieve their fullest potential as a dive instructor.

Applications for the following IDC start dates are now open:

  • 12 April
  • 5 July,
  • 20 September
  • 29 November

Partnership with Casita Palma

If the student opts for the IDC-Deluxe or IDC-Supreme package, their accommodation will be arranged for them at Casita Palma. This small and quiet resort is within walking distance from Dive Friends Bonaire’s main dive shop location and has everything you need to relax after an intense day of IDC training. Breakfast is included, so the student will always be fuelled and ready for their day.

Contact Dive Friends Bonaire’s Course Director Eddy for more information: coursedirector@divefriendsbonaire.com.

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