Here are some of the animals that live in underwater guyots:
Fish:
* Deep-sea fish: These include species adapted to the extreme pressure and low light conditions of the deep ocean, such as anglerfish, dragonfish, and hatchetfish.
* Reef fish: Depending on the guyot's location and the presence of coral, some reef fish species might be present.
* Pelagic fish: Fish that live in the open water column, like tuna, marlin, and sharks, may also be found near guyots, particularly in areas with strong currents.
Invertebrates:
* Corals: Guyots can sometimes support a variety of corals, including deep-sea corals, depending on water conditions.
* Sponges: These filter feeders thrive in the deep ocean and are often found on guyots.
* Echinoderms: Sea stars, sea urchins, brittle stars, and sea cucumbers are common in the deep ocean and inhabit guyots.
* Mollusks: Some mollusks, like deep-sea clams and snails, can be found in these environments.
* Crustaceans: Crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and other crustaceans may also be present, particularly in areas with crevices and caves.
Other animals:
* Whales: Guyots can act as important feeding grounds for whales, especially those that dive deep to feed.
* Sharks: Various shark species, including deep-sea sharks, may utilize guyots for hunting or resting.
* Squid and octopus: These cephalopods are also common inhabitants of the deep ocean and may be found near guyots.
The specific animals present on a particular guyot will depend on various factors:
* Depth: The deeper the guyot, the more specialized the species will be to survive those conditions.
* Location: Guyots in different regions will have different species depending on local currents, food availability, and other environmental factors.
* Guyot structure: The presence of caves, overhangs, or coral formations will attract specific species.
Guyots provide important habitats and resources for a diverse array of marine life. Studying these underwater mountains can provide valuable insights into the ecology and evolution of the deep ocean.