Deep-sea amphipod swarms
Article Abstract:
A new species of amphipod that swarms in large numbers has been discovered at a hydrothermal vent site in the East Pacific Rise. Swarming among amphipods and other crustaceans had only been observed before among shallow-water species. The newly identified deep-sea species has several morphological features that suit it to swimming including powerful pleopods for propulsion through the water. Although the adaptive purpose of the swarming behavior has yet to be determined, the new species is probably integral to the bentho-pelagic coupling of chemosynthetic production occurring at the vent sites.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1992
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Origins of photosynthesis
Article Abstract:
One hypothesis for the development of photosynthesis involves the hydrothermal vents providing emissions that chemotropic bacteria could detect using phototaxis, a precursor to photosynthesis. This hypothesis is problematized by the believed absence of oxygen in the oceans and by the failure to account for the radiation abilities of the ocean. While these concerns are valid, the radiation problems are reduced if phototaxis not photosynthesis is the development caused by the hydrothermal vents and the absence or presence of oxygen in the oceans is still being debated.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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Vents at higher frequency
Article Abstract:
General concepts about deep-ocean processes are often based on just a few local or regional observations. German and colleagues have provided remote sensing data that challenges a model correlating hydrothermal vent frequency with the spreading rate of mid-ocean ridges. The higher than expected incidence of hydrothermal vents are attributed to tectonism as a process allowing sea water to enter deep heat sources and sustain hydrothermal activity at higher spatial frequencies that spreading rate predictions.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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