Photos: Gulf of California Sea Vents

Active volcanic sea vents that are teeming with life were recently discovered in the Gulf of California, the first to be found in the area. They were discovered by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute using sonar-equipped robotic submarines.

National Geographic is featuring a series of photographs capturing the marine life in and around the sea vents as well as the technology and equipment used during the exploration.

While exploring, researchers found an array of sea life dotting the otherwise barren landscape.  Galatheid crabs, coral, sponges, small fish, limpets, and tube worms have all made a home among the black smoke funnels and volcanic rock formations.

Take a look here.