Scientists have discovered an underwater mountain, dubbed the Lost City, west of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The structure is home to a unique ecosystem, with towering carbonate walls and columns that support novel microbial communities, snails, and crustaceans. Located over 2,300 feet beneath the surface, the Lost City Hydrothermal Field has been thriving for at least 120,000 years.
The field’s vents produce hydrogen, methane, and other gases, which support life even without oxygen. Researchers have found an abundance of marine life in the area, including snails, crustaceans, and eels. The unique ecosystem is thought to be teeming with life, making it a priority for conservation.
A recent discovery has uncovered a 1,268-meter-long core sample from the Lost City, which could provide crucial evidence on how life emerged on Earth. While other hydrothermal fields exist worldwide, this is the only one that can be explored using remotely operated vehicles. The unique environment and ecosystem of the Lost City have sparked hope that it may hold secrets to understanding the origins of life beyond our planet.
The discovery has also raised concerns about the potential impact of mining in the area, as Poland was awarded the rights to mine around the Lost City. Scientists are calling for the site to be listed as a World Heritage site to protect its natural wonder before it’s too late.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/lost-city-deep-under-the-ocean-is-unlike-anything-weve-ever-seen-before-on-earth