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Mysterious. Ethereal. Compelling. Deep under the surface of Atl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound exists a world rarely seen by the human eye. Giant intricate structures are found in isolated colonies up to 200 meters deep, perched atop pinnacles in the dark waters. These otherworldly organisms are Cloud Sponges - ancient animals once thought to have gone extinct some 40 million years ago. The reefs are home to a wide range of organisms including Quillback Rockfish, Shiner Perch, and many species of crustacean. Damage from anchoring, sub-sea cables, fishing gear and bottom trawling presents a significant threat to these delicate ecosystems. As critical habitat to numerous species and powerful filter-feeders these sponges are notably one of the most important organisms in Howe Sound and beyond.
