Damaged coral (IMAGE) American Geophysical Union Caption Once a deep-sea Paramuricea coral was exposed to oil and dispersants, the damaged areas became ripe for colonization by other parasitic corals. Here, the coral is being completely overgrown by purple Trachythela corals. Credit NOAA, Oceaneering Usage Restrictions Credit must be given to the creator. License CC BY Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.