Researchers find world's deepest 'blue hole.' See it here
Digital Reporter
Wednesday, July 27, 2016, 1:22 PM - Scientists have discovered the world's deepest underwater sinkhole in the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea.
Also referred to as a blue hole, it measures about 300 metres deep, surpassing the previous record holder, Dean's Blue Hole at 202 metres located on Long Island in the Bahamas.
Researchers were able to determine the depth of the sinkhole by using an underwater robot fitted with a depth sensor.
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World's deepest blue hole discovered at the Xisha Islands pic.twitter.com/1ZhFdy8SVM
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The exploration project lasted from August 2015 until June of this year. Dubbed "Dragon Hole," the sinkhole was found with a 130-metre-diametre-wide entrance, according to Fu Liang, head of the Sansha Ship Course Research Institute for Coral Protection.
In addition, more than 20 fish species and other marine organisms were detected by the research team in the upper levels of the blue hole. However, the cave does not support life deeper than 330 feet as there is no oxygen.
Researchers say blue holes are unique marine landforms that are essential for marine research and the development of future projects.
SOURCE: Reuters
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