Research on cold-water corals at SAMS began in 1997 through the late John Gage's deep-sea biology research group. Since then Murray Roberts has continued working on the biology and ecology of these fascinating ecosystems. The coral group collaborates nationally through UK-funded projects and internationally through European and North American funding. Andrew Davies joined the group in 2005. We have found corals on oil rigs in the North Sea, investigated the ecology and physiology of the major reef forming species Lophelia pertusa and delved into the amazing biodiversity that inhabits cold-water coral areas.

Cold-water corals are found in deep, dark waters that are usually cold and murky. For this reason, cold-water corals have been in the shadow of their tropical counterparts for years. Improvements in technology has led to an upsurge in research activities and public awareness.

Our group research is currently focused on understanding the ecology and physiology of the cold-water coral Lophelia pertusa. We are using predictive mapping techniques to gain a better understanding of where cold-water corals are found. As well as working on bringing US and European cold-water coral research and conservation together. You can see our past and present projects in the sections below, meet some of the coral people, see some of the facilities of our group, browse our publication list and discover cold-water coral resources on the internet.