"The corals do not look much worn, but still appear to have been dead. There are some delicate shells of molluscs from depths beyond 500 fathoms, where they were certainly living"

In this quote, Edward Forbes is explaining his observations of corals. He keeps in mind that while the corals do not appear to be greatly used, they do appear to be dead. This suggests that they were as soon as alive, however have considering that died. Additionally, Forbes discusses discovering delicate shells of molluscs from depths of over 500 fathoms. This suggests that these shells were once lived in by living molluscs, further supporting the concept that the corals were once alive also. In general, Forbes' words paint a picture of an as soon as successful undersea community, now filled with residues of life that has considering that passed.