A recent exploration in the deep Pacific Ocean has uncovered a stunning undersea city known as the Kunlun hydrothermal field. This vast region, spanning 11.1 square kilometers (4.3 square miles), dwarfs the famous “Lost City” in the Atlantic, which was previously the largest known hydrothermal field.
The Lost City, discovered in 2000, features unique towers and formations. It was celebrated for its diverse life forms, but now residents of the deep Pacific are stealing the spotlight. Researchers from the Laoshan Laboratory and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) are excited about their finds.
The Kunlun field is remarkable. Its system includes hydrothermal vents that eject hydrogen-rich fluids at surprisingly low temperatures, under 40°C. This differs from the hotter, more dramatic “black smokers,” which resemble underwater chimneys. What makes Kunlun particularly intriguing is its potential link to the origins of life on Earth. The hydrogen-rich fluids here mimic the conditions scientists believe existed billions of years ago when life first emerged.
Marine geochemist Weidong Sun from CAS highlights the ecological possibilities: “We observed a variety of deep-sea creatures thriving in this environment. Shrimp, anemones, and tubeworms all depend on hydrogen-driven chemosynthesis.” This process could offer insights into early biological life.
In terms of impact, the Kunlun system may account for up to 8% of hydrogen flux from all submarine sources worldwide. This could make it a key player in understanding deep-sea ecosystems.
The geological structure of Kunlun diverges significantly from that of the Lost City. Instead of thin towers, it has broad craters that plunge deep into the ocean floor. This stable environment might be more conducive to the early evolution of life, allowing for sustained development over time.
The creation of these hydrothermal vents involves complex interactions between seawater and Earth’s mantle. Such processes not only shape the landscape but also generate hydrogen. Over the years, these vents might eventually “go extinct” if seawater stops reaching them.
Interestingly, most hydrogen-rich vents are found near tectonic plate boundaries, yet Kunlun is located about 80 kilometers west of a trench, which raises intriguing questions about how and where such geological processes can occur.
Given its size and unique conditions, researchers believe Kunlun could pave the way for new energy sources extracted from deep-sea hydrogen. This finding challenges existing assumptions about hydrothermal systems and shows that life can thrive far from mid-ocean ridges.
As investigations continue, it’s clear that other underwater cities like Kunlun may not be just a fantasy. They could provide crucial knowledge about life on Earth and beyond.
For more in-depth insights into hydrothermal vents and their ecological significance, visit the NOAA.
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