47. 



Coral distribution 



Corals were seen at most of the depths surveyed in all 

 three canyons. Of these Baltimore Canyon has the fewest 

 corals, both in terms of number of species and their abundan- 

 ces (Fig. 22) . Since many of the coral species are restricted 

 to hard substrates, this finding is probably a reflection of 

 the fact that Baltimore Canyon exhibits the least amount of ex- 

 posed outcrop. The most common coral found in this canyon 

 is the white sea pen, which is a major component of the shallow- 

 water faunal assemblage. This coral occurs in dense patches 

 on the east wall of the canyon. The other corals that are 

 found in Baltimore Canyon are usually restricted to the axis. 

 A species of the genus Flabellum (most likely F, alabaatrum) 

 and a small non-descript sea pen are found in the shallow axis 

 between 200 to 400 meters. Similar small sea pens also occur 

 on the west wall of the canyon in the same depth interval. 

 Both of these corals are restricted to soft substrates. 

 Slightly deeper, where the canyon axis constricts and bends, 

 outcrops and talus blocks are exposed. Several corals 

 restricted to hard substrates are found in this region. 

 Massive colonies of the gorgonian Pavagovgia avhovea are found 

 attached to the surface of large rock outcrops. The skeletons 

 of some dead colonies are also seen at the base of these 

 outcrops. Other corals found in this area include Aaanthogorgia 

 armata, Primnoa reseda^ Eunephthya florida and Anthothela 

 grandiflora. 



