Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration dives into the secrets of the Gulf.

AZA-accredited Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration recently partnered with the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, the University of Rhode Island and the U.S. Navy to explore the underwater landscape and habitats of the Flower Garden Banks, a marine sanctuary and home of many endangered species in the Gulf of Mexico. Leading the expedition was Dr. Robert Ballard, famous for his deep-sea archaeology projects on the Titanic and the military torpedo boat PT-109. A nuclear-powered submarine and a remotely operated vehicle gave scientists the opportunity to study the unique biological and geographical features in the Gulf region. The Flower Garden Banks is a largely unknown area, and this expedition hopes to shed light on the details of its coral reef system, brine seeps, mud volcanoes, and ancient shorelines, as well as the interactions between the area's residents and the distinctive geology.

Conducted from March 4th to March 9th, the research trip, "Secrets of the Gulf," was broadcasted live to audiences in the aquarium and other museums, classrooms throughout the country, and online.