On August 13, 2013, NCCOS and partnerswill set off on a two-week research expedition off the coast of southwest Florida to investigate the role of mesophotic (mid-depth) coral ecosystems of Pulley Ridge in replenishing key fish and other coral ecosystem species found in Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas reefs. This5-year study, led by University of Miami and NCCOS, wasdeveloped in partnership with NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, National Marine Fisheries Services's Southeast Regional Office (NMFS), and the Gulf of Mexico Regional Collaboration Team.

Results from this field effort will be used by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary's Advisory Council to determine management actions necessary for sustaining the coral reef communities upstream and downstream of Pulley Ridge.

For more information, contact Kimberly.Puglise@noaa.gov.