Photos: Underwater Google Street View Reveals Stunning Corals

Coral Reef Street View

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Google Maps has teamed up with the Catlin Seaview Survey to create 360-degree panoramas of coral reefs around the world.

Coral Reef Health

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

The underwater images will help researchers measure the health of coral reefs.

Great Barrier Reef

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

The team has explored the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia and is currently exploring the southern Caribbean.

Dying Coral

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Climate change and coastal development pose a serious threat to coral reef ecosystems.

Underwater Cameras

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

A human-driven underwater scooter equipped with sophisticated cameras is used to capture the photos.

Virtual Exploration

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Anyone with Internet access can virtually explore these vibrant coral reef environments.

Coral Reef Life

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Coral reefs are home to many different species, including tropical fish and manta rays.

Overfishing

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Overfishing is taking a toll on reefs, which depend on fish to keep algae populations in check.

Mammal Life

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

The reef is home to mammals as well.

Citizen Scientists

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Regular citizens can help scientists keep track of the wildlife that call the reefs home.

Image Recognition

Google Maps, Caitlin Seaview Survey

(Image credit: Catlin Seaview Survey)

Scientists are using image recognition software to identify corals and other organisms.

Live Science Staff
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