The Lost City Hydrothermal Field: A Submerged Oasis of Life
The Lost City Hydrothermal Field is a submerged discovery found 2,300 feet beneath the ocean's surface.
It is the longest-existing hydrothermal vent system found in the ocean, continuously venting hydrogen, methane, and other gases from the mantle.
The vents in the Lost City Hydrothermal Field support unique microbial communities, even in the absence of oxygen.
The presence of hydrocarbons is not from CO2 or sunlight but from chemical reactions on the ocean floor.
Microbiologist William Brazelton stated it could also exist on celestial bodies like Enceladus, Europa, or Mars.
The Lost City's chimneys differ greatly from black smokers, producing more hydrogen and methane.
The calcite vents in the Lost City are larger, indicating a longer period of activity.
Poland was granted the rights to mine the deep sea surrounding the Lost City, posing a threat to the unique habitat.
Scientists advocate for the Lost City to be designated as a World Heritage site to preserve the natural marvel.
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