In the dephs of the Antarctic ocean...

Sometimes we need a reminder of the beauty, mystery and magnificence of the ocean depths. These photos from Antarctica paint a different picture from the image of a cold isolated barren region. The oceans of the Antarctic are teeming with life, superbly adapted to life in a cold climate. The photos are taken by diver Norbert Wu and captured the stunning visual feast under Antarctica's sea ice.

However the Antarctic, while remote, is not free from human impact. Overfishing still occurs, as well as impacts from shipping activity, tourism, and scientific bases - all must which be carefully managed. Fishing is particularly problematic, and despite the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)being in action for over 25 years, the impacts from illegal fisheries are still prevalent. For example, recently a 130km ghost fishing gill net was discovered in the Southern Ocean decimating populations of Toothfish and skate.

Click on the pictures to see the full image.