DEEP SEA RESEARCH
It is our hope at ORCA that our deep-sea research will generate greater caring and awareness about the wonders still hidden in the ocean, and inspire a new generation of ocean explorers and conservationists.
Sadly, we are destroying our ocean faster than we’re discovering its secrets.
It is tragic to think that because of the way we are treating our planet, future generations won’t ever get the opportunity to discover these wonders.
We are at a very critical time in our planet’s history when small steps now – like setting aside marine protected areas, preventing bottom trawlers from ravaging fragile underwater habitats and locating and stopping land-based sources of water pollution – will make a profound difference in what is left for future generations.
ORCA Deep Sea Research Programs
Bioluminescence
For ORCA’s Dr. Edie Widder, one of the keys to deep-sea exploration is bioluminescent light, which is produced by most deep-sea animals. Dr. Widder, a specialist in marine bioluminescence, has used her expertise to develop new technologies to better observe and understand these unique deep-sea dwellers.
Giant Squid
Filmed for the first time in its natural habitat, the giant squid (Architeuthis), was able to be seen due in large part to ORCA’s Dr. Edie Widder’s experience with the Eye-in the-Sea unobtrusive deep-sea camera observatory and her development of a novel optical lure known as the electronic jellyfish that imitates certain bioluminescent displays, thought to be attractive to large predators.