Scientists Discover Rare Deep-Sea Vent Systems

Scientists discovered two rare hydrothermal vent fields in international Atlantic waters, revealing ecosystems that could deepen understanding of how life thrives without sunlight.

“Every sample, every image, and every discovery brings us one step closer to understanding the hidden parts of our planet,” said Dr Paula Zapata Ramirez, assistant professor at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana.

During the 35-day expedition, scientists mapped 147 square kilometres of seafloor and found the larger vent field covering about 99,000 square metres, with 23 vents supporting shrimp, crabs and anemones through chemical energy rather than sunlight. The team also recorded the first footage of a living Winteria telescopa barreleye fish and observed two rarely seen bigfin squids. The newly discovered vents combine volcanic activity with chemical reactions between seawater and deep-Earth rocks. This rare combination could also provide clues for identifying conditions suitable for life on other planets.