The article explores the vibrant ecosystems thriving around methane seeps deep within the ocean, where unique species, like tubeworms and clams, congregate to capitalize on the abundant resources these seeps offer. Recent explorations by the Schmidt Ocean Institute on its research vessel Falkor (too) uncovered numerous potential new species and highlighted the advanced methods scientists use, like sonar and chemical sampling, to identify these hidden oases. The relationships between various organisms, including those feeding off methane-harvesting bacteria, showcase the complexity and richness of these deep-sea environments.
These deep-sea oases are just some of many areas of the ocean floor that scientists are only beginning to explore, discovering new species along the way.
The scientists found methane seeps by combining visual surveys, seafloor mapping and chemical sampling for methane at suspected sites.
Clams huddle around the methane seep so that the chemosynthetic microbes in their gills get a rich supply of food.
Dense colonies of methane-munching bacteria build up near seeps, which serve as a tasty snack for other organisms, like shrimp.
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