In Photos: The Stunning Sea Life 'Stars' of 'Big Pacific'

White Island

Located just off the eastern coast of New Zealand, White Island is home to an active volcano that has emitted steam, smoke and ash since its discovery in 1769 by the British explorer James Cook.

WWII Japanese plane

Hidden deep in the Pacific Ocean is evidence of accidents and wars from the past. Here, a World War II Japanese plane rests in a watery grave.

Artificial reef

Shipwrecks and airplane wreckage eventually become homes for a variety of species that live in the Pacific Ocean.

Yellow-eyed penguin

Researchers continue to study the Pacific Ocean to better understand the delicate balance of life that inhabits its wide range of ecosystems, and how they are affected by human activity and by the growing threat of a warming world.