See How the Deep of Legendary Titanic Shipwreck Site
- BBC News
The wreck lay neglected for more than 70 years until the United States Navy discovered it in 1985.Â
Scientists say they believe the wreck will be gone by 2030 due to bacteria eating away at the metal. Most of the damage comes from a group of bacteria, Halomonas titanicae, which causes stalactite-like structures or rust-colored ice to form.Â
"Yes, like everything else, eventually, Titanic will disappear completely. It will be a long time before the ship is completely gone, but the decay of the wreck is expected and a natural process," said Patrick Lahey, president, and co-founder of Triton Submarines.Â
In 1996, Captain Smith's room and bath were on the starboard side of the ship, easily visible from submarines and surveillance cameras. But now, they are no longer visible.Â
Historian and Titanic expert Parks Stephenson said in a statement: "The captain's bathtub is a favorite image among Titanic fans, and now it's gone."Â
"The entire deck pit on that side collapsed, taking with it the staterooms, and the damage will continue."Â