Large areas of cold-water coral reef discovered in Norway: Report

​​​​​​​By Ilayda Cakirtekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - A recent study revealed large areas of cold-water reefs in western Norway's northernmost county of More og Romsdal, the NPK broadcaster reported Tuesday.

With remotely operated underwater vehicle mapping biodiversity in World Heritage areas, the study revealed several coral reefs in Geiranger Fjord and Sunnylvsfjord.

"It was unexpected that we found such large areas of cold-water coral reefs, especially in Geiranger Fjord," marine biologist Christiane Todt told NRK.

The area of coral reefs mapped in Geiranger Fjord is reportedly about 10 decares (2.47 acres), but it could potentially be 235 decares.

Many of the coral species documented in the study are rare and live at great depths.

"The special thing is that the corals appeared very healthy and are growing well," said Todt.

Researcher Orjan Sorstronen Vabo told NRK that there are probably many more corals in Norwegian fjords than is currently known.​​​​​​​