Molecular and Morphological Mysteries of Deep-Sea Black Corals

Abstract: The deep sea is the largest environment on Earth, yet we have only explored ~5% of this extreme habitat. Dr. Brugler's research program utilizes morphology and DNA to elucidate the evolution and diversity of mesophotic and deep-water black corals (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Hexacorallia: Antipatharia). Black corals have historically been understudied as ~75% of the 275+ known species live at depths >50m. Because black coral DNA evolves 100x slower than all other multicellular animals and these animals are plagued by convergent evolution, our understanding of the group is limited. Black corals hold the record for the deepest (8,600m) and longest-lived (4,265 years old) coral. Given their extreme longevity, Brugler and colleagues are testing the utility of an ultra-gentle soft robotic manipulator that minimizes the impact of handling. Brugler will also share stories from a recent telepresence-enabled research cruise to the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (Gulf of Mexico) where his team of diverse undergraduates deployed the ROV Yogi to collect mesophotic corals and sponges. So, what is a deep-sea biologist doing in the Lowcountry? The answer involves DNA barcoding, eDNA, leeches, and more.