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An off-axis hydrothermal vent field near the Mid-Atlantic Ridge at 30 degrees N.
D S Kelley1, J A Karson, D K Blackman
1University of Washington, School of Oceanography, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. kelley@ocean.washington.edu
Nature
|July 13, 2001
Summary
Scientists discovered a unique hydrothermal field,
Area of Science:
- Marine geology and geochemistry
- Microbial ecology
Background:
- Hydrothermal venting is traditionally associated with mid-ocean ridges.
- Evidence suggests hydrothermal activity may also occur on older oceanic crust away from spreading centers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hydrothermal activity on older oceanic crust.
- To characterize the unique geological and chemical features of a newly discovered vent field.
- To assess the potential for microbial life in such environments.
Main Methods:
- Geological surveys and mapping of the Atlantis massif.
- In-situ measurements of vent fluid temperature and pH.
- Microbial community analysis of vent fluid samples.
Main Results:
- Discovery of the 'Lost City' hydrothermal field on 1.5-Myr-old crust, 15 km from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
- Identification of carbonate chimneys, distinct from typical sulfide structures.
- Characterization of alkaline, relatively cool vent fluids (40-75°C, pH 9.0-9.8).
- Detection of dense anaerobic thermophile microbial communities.
Conclusions:
- The 'Lost City' hydrothermal field is driven by serpentinization reactions, not solely by magmatic heat.
- Alkaline hydrothermal systems on old oceanic crust can support diverse microbial life.
- A significant portion of the oceanic crust may host hydrothermal activity and life, expanding known habitable zones.
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