An international research team aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel Falkor has made a significant breakthrough in the Pacific Ocean off the Western Galápagos Islands. Utilizing advanced mapping technologies, the team discovered a new high-temperature hydrothermal vent field, which they have named “Tortugas”. The remarkable vent field spans over 600 meters along the western edge of the caldera floor of the Los Huellos East submarine volcano.
The researchers employed cutting-edge tools such as a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) equipped with M3 Sonar and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Sonar (InSAS) to generate highly detailed seafloor maps with up to 3-centimeter resolution. This technological advancement enabled the scientists to locate new hydrothermal vents surrounding the Galápagos and study the chemicals they emit and the animals that inhabit them.
As a result of this groundbreaking discovery, fifteen previously unknown species were identified, including a “living fossil” mollusc called a monoplacophoran, as well as a Pacific White Skate nursery existing on low-temperature hydrothermal vents. Furthermore, the expedition revisited the world’s first discovered hydrothermal vent field, known as Rose Garden, and provided the first complete picture of this historic vent field, identifying specific features associated with its hydrothermal evolution since its initial discovery.
Led by Dr. John Jamieson of Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, the expedition was conducted in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the Galápagos National Park Directorate, Charles Darwin Foundation, and the Ecuadorian Navy’s Oceanographic and Antarctic Institute (INOCAR). The utilization of high-resolution maps and images not only facilitated the identification of previously unexplored venting sites but also led to new discoveries in sites that had been previously studied.
Dr. Jyotika Virmani, executive director of Schmidt Ocean Institute, highlighted that the detailed maps created with state-of-the-art technology are extraordinary for the area they cover and the seafloor complexity they reveal. The successful expedition has significantly expanded the scientific understanding of the region and provided invaluable information to assist Ecuador in managing its marine resources.
The discoveries and data collected from the expedition will also contribute to a better understanding of the role that inactive vents play for the planet and the animal communities that thrive on them. Recognizing the significance of these discoveries in guiding environmental policy, Ecuador has called for a precautionary pause on deep-sea mining.
The 30-day expedition serves as a notable example of international cooperation, demonstrating the impact of cutting-edge technology and scientific research in advancing our understanding of the ocean and its intricate ecosystems. This exciting discovery opens new possibilities for exploring the secrets hidden beneath the ocean’s surface and underscores the vital role of advanced technological innovations in advancing ocean exploration and conservation efforts worldwide.
The remarkable achievements made during the expedition are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the researchers and scientists from the various institutions involved. The information gathered will undoubtedly contribute to profound advancements in the field of ocean exploration and foster greater knowledge and appreciation for the rich and diverse ecosystems that thrive beneath the waves.
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