Coral reefs are deteriorating worldwide despite increasing attempts for their conservation and rehabilitation. Experts warn about the possibility of the disappearance of shallow reefs within two generations. Anthropogenic perturbations in shallow water play a significant role in this process. Deep coral reefs were suggested as the main source for reefs recovery. However, in the Red Sea, deep reefs (deeper than 30m) may be threatened as well. Yet since they are largely unexplored they are also unprotected.

Our aim is to describe and monitor the deep, largely unknown and fully protected reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea). To reach these goals we will establish a database of fish and corals of the deep coral reefs. Comparing this habitat with shallow water habitats will enable us to study the extent of anthropogenic perturbations affecting it. Results will be rapidly implemented in to monitoring, research and decision making processes that will hopefully generate conservation and rehabilitation policies to the frontier environment.