Banc Capel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Banc Capel |
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 Location in Pacific Ocean
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| Location | |
| Location | Coral Sea, in the South Pacific Ocean, near New Caledonia |
| Coordinates | 24°45.70′S 159°42.13′E / 24.76167°S 159.70217°E) |
| Country | France |
| Geology | |
| Type | Guyot |
| Volcanic arc/chain | Lord Howe Seamount Chain |
Banc Capel is a special kind of underwater mountain called a guyot. It's like a flat-topped volcano hidden deep in the Coral Sea.
What is Banc Capel?
Banc Capel is a guyot, which means it's an ancient atoll that has sunk beneath the ocean's surface. Imagine a tall mountain under the sea, but instead of a pointy top, it has a flat, table-like surface. Its sides are very steep.
This underwater mountain is found in the Coral Sea, which is part of the huge South Pacific Ocean. It's located not too far from New Caledonia, an island nation.
Strong ocean currents constantly sweep across Banc Capel. Because of these currents, you won't find any soft sand or mud on its surface. Instead, the seabed is covered with rocks and gravel.
Amazing Ocean Life
Banc Capel is home to many interesting sea creatures. It's a busy place for different types of marine life.
One of the most common animals here are sponges. Sponges are simple animals that attach themselves to rocks. They filter tiny bits of food from the water. You might also find beautiful gorgonians, which are a type of soft coral. They often look like colorful fans or trees swaying in the underwater currents.
Other creatures living on Banc Capel include different kinds of decapods. This group includes animals like crabs and lobsters. For example, you might spot the slipper lobster Ibacus brucei or various types of swimming crabs. These animals find shelter and food among the rocks and gravel of the guyot.
Banc Capel is a unique underwater habitat. It shows us how diverse and amazing the deep ocean can be!
