Hydrothermal Vent Ecosystem

A hydrothermal vent is formed mineral-rich, superheated water flowing through cracks and fissures in the ocean crust. They are typically found near hotspots and divergent margins (mid-ocean ridges). Ocean water percolates through the cracks in the ocean crust and is heated at depth. The superheated mineral-rich water then rises back through the ocean crust and is ejected out through the vents forming black smokers and white smokers. Sulfide minerals are precipitated out at the surface and the continued precipitation of these minerals creates chimney like structures. The minerals precipitated out include pyrite, anhydrite, copper, zinc, and other precious metals.

Hydrothermal Vent (Black Smoker)

Cartoon image of Hydrothermal vent formation

http://www.geology.sdsu.edu/how_volcanoes_work/Thumblinks/blksmoker_page.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26866/