A NEW photographic exhibition opens at the Ripon Workhouse Museum next month which captures the underwater wonders of the coral triangle.

Rainforest of the Sea features stunning photographs of sea creatures in Borneo, highlighting the diversity of coral reefs, as well as the threats facing the habitats.

The exhibition is on loan from the prestigious Horniman Museum.

Marine biologist and photographer Jamie Craggs – currently the Aquarium Curator at the Horniman - worked without the aid of digital photography to create underwater shots,

He said: “Coral reefs are often called the “rainforest of the sea” because, like rainforests they are one of the most biologically diverse habitats on the planet.

“ These photos weren’t taken with an exhibition in mind, but the threats to this amazing underwater world are so great that I wanted the images to do some good.

“I hope Rainforest of the Sea will not only show visitors the beauty and wonder of the coral reef and its creatures, but also raise awareness of the importance of protecting them for the future.”

The exhibition is open from September 7 until December 2.