Hydrate Ridge Image Gallery

Hydrate Ridge Image Gallery

RCA infrastructure at Southern Hydrate Ridge as installed in 2019. Also shown are instruments funded by MARUM1 (2 sonars, 4K camera, and a CTD). Credit: University of Washington.
RCA infrastructure at Southern Hydrate Ridge as installed in 2019. Also shown are instruments funded by MARUM1 (2 sonars, 4K camera, and a CTD). Credit: University of Washington.
During the evening of July 31, the R/V Atlantis visited the R/V Thompson at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
During the evening of July 31, the R/V Atlantis visited the R/V Thompson at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
Steaming to Southern Hydrate Ridge to begin dive operations with the ROV ROPOS.
Steaming to Southern Hydrate Ridge to begin dive operations with the ROV ROPOS.
Dolphins playing alongside the ship while we transited back to the Southern Hydrate Ridge site. Credit: S. Baxstrom, University of Washington; V22.
Dolphins playing alongside the ship while we transited back to the Southern Hydrate Ridge site. Credit: S. Baxstrom, University of Washington; V22.
A 12 kHz echo sounder detects a strong bubble plume issuing from Southern Hydrate RIdge.
A 12 kHz echo sounder detects a strong bubble plume issuing from Southern Hydrate RIdge.
Methane bubble plumes spotted on the Thompson's hull-mounted multi-beam plume survey at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: N. Wu, University of Washington, V22.
Methane bubble plumes spotted on the Thompson's hull-mounted multi-beam plume survey at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: N. Wu, University of Washington, V22.
Sonar image of bubble plumes
Bubble plumes above Southern Hydrate Ridge Summit as imaged by the R/V Thompson's multibeam sonar. These sonar surveys were used to plan CTD casts to sample for methane in the water column. Credit: Bob Collier, OSU
Frame grab of Jason sonar image showing Ocean Drilling Program Holes at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI.
Frame grab of Jason sonar image showing Ocean Drilling Program Holes at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI.
A layer of lantern fish hovers in the shallow waters above the methane seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge, perhaps in response to enhanced microbial activity in this zone. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V19.
A layer of lantern fish hovers in the shallow waters above the methane seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge, perhaps in response to enhanced microbial activity in this zone. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V19.
A swarm of fish is in the highly productive waters above Southern Hydrate Ridge is imaged as ROPOS descends to depth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, V22.
A swarm of fish is in the highly productive waters above Southern Hydrate Ridge is imaged as ROPOS descends to depth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, V22.
A brown catshark (Apristurus brunneus) at Southern Hydrate Ridge, seen during a site survey during VISIONS'22. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R2224, V22.
A brown catshark (Apristurus brunneus) at Southern Hydrate Ridge, seen during a site survey during VISIONS'22. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R2224, V22.
Blue sharks range in size from 6 ft to 12 ft in length. This shark was found roughly in the upper 100 m of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; Dive J2-997; V17
Blue sharks range in size from 6 ft to 12 ft in length. This shark was found roughly in the upper 100 m of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; Dive J2-997; V17
A Brown Catshark swimming near the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A Brown Catshark swimming near the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A small catshark swims past the ROV ROPOS in 2022 at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V22.
A small catshark swims past the ROV ROPOS in 2022 at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V22.
A red jellyfish (Poralia rufescens) at Southern Hydrate Ridge undulates past the ROV ROPOS near the carbonate pinnacle site during Dive R1851. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V15.
A red jellyfish (Poralia rufescens) at Southern Hydrate Ridge undulates past the ROV ROPOS near the carbonate pinnacle site during Dive R1851. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V15.
The Voragonema pedunculata has been measured up to 4 cm in diameter. This jelly was found at Southern Hydrate Ridge around 790 m. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1769; V14
The Voragonema pedunculata has been measured up to 4 cm in diameter. This jelly was found at Southern Hydrate Ridge around 790 m. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1769; V14
A methane bubble plume west of Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge Summit. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R1754, V14.
A methane bubble plume west of Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge Summit. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R1754, V14.
Hummocky terrain characterizes the Smokey Taverns site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. White bacterial mats are common on the summits and sides of the hummocks. Rockfish, hagfish and clam chaff dot the landscape. The edge of a large collapse zone is to the right. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V18 .
Hummocky terrain characterizes the Smokey Taverns site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. White bacterial mats are common on the summits and sides of the hummocks. Rockfish, hagfish and clam chaff dot the landscape. The edge of a large collapse zone is to the right. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V18 .
Methane seep with bacterial mats
Methane seep with bacterial mats imaged by Jason during Dive 508 at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI.
Einsteins Grotto, the active methane seep first visited by the UW in 2010, continues to surprise us - this year, multiple bubble streams were issuing from the pit and exposed methane hydrate was documented in the sides of the wall. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
Einsteins Grotto, the active methane seep first visited by the UW in 2010, continues to surprise us - this year, multiple bubble streams were issuing from the pit and exposed methane hydrate was documented in the sides of the wall. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
A strong plume of methane-rich bubbles issue from the seafloor at the Summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. This area collapsed sometime between 2010 and 2011, probably due to methane release from the subsurface. VISIONS '13, Leg 4 Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
A strong plume of methane-rich bubbles issue from the seafloor at the Summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. This area collapsed sometime between 2010 and 2011, probably due to methane release from the subsurface. VISIONS '13, Leg 4 Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
Beggiatoa bacterial matting at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The green lasers are turned on for scale and are 10 cm apart. 
Beggiatoa bacterial matting at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The green lasers are turned on for scale and are 10 cm apart. 
An active methane hydrate seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Emanating out of the cavity in the sediments are bubbles from gas hydrate dissociation within the shallow sediments. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
An active methane hydrate seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Emanating out of the cavity in the sediments are bubbles from gas hydrate dissociation within the shallow sediments. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
A Brown Catshark swimming above orange bacterial mats near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A Brown Catshark swimming above orange bacterial mats near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
Microbial mats cover expansive areas of the Smokey Caverns site, which hosted exposed gas hydrate in 2017. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI: V19.
Microbial mats cover expansive areas of the Smokey Caverns site, which hosted exposed gas hydrate in 2017. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI: V19.
This down-looking image was taken to create an extremely detailed view of methane seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The left portion of the image shows part of a large collapse zone. White areas are bacterial mats. Credit. M. Elend, University of Washington.
This down-looking image was taken to create an extremely detailed view of methane seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The left portion of the image shows part of a large collapse zone. White areas are bacterial mats. Credit. M. Elend, University of Washington.
The seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge are characterized by several meter-tall hummocks, the summits and sides of which are variably covered by white bacterial mats. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; J2-981; V17.
The seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge are characterized by several meter-tall hummocks, the summits and sides of which are variably covered by white bacterial mats. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; J2-981; V17.
The 2019 OOI digital still camera at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m) observing a plume of methane bubbles streaming out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The 2019 OOI digital still camera at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m) observing a plume of methane bubbles streaming out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Southern Hydrate Ridge rocks collected by ROPOS. Credit: J. Pineda, University of Washington; V22.
Southern Hydrate Ridge rocks collected by ROPOS. Credit: J. Pineda, University of Washington; V22.
Extensive bacterial mats and clam beds imaged and mapped in detail at Southern Hydrate Ridge. University of Washington.
Extensive bacterial mats and clam beds imaged and mapped in detail at Southern Hydrate Ridge. University of Washington.
Exposed gas hydrate (a clathrate of water ice that forms around methane) observed in Einstein,s Grotto at the Southern Hydrate Ridge summit. Large bubbles were escaping intermittently from the crevice, indicating an active methane seep. A rockfish is sheltering within the grotto as well. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1754, VI14.
Exposed gas hydrate (a clathrate of water ice that forms around methane) observed in Einstein,s Grotto at the Southern Hydrate Ridge summit. Large bubbles were escaping intermittently from the crevice, indicating an active methane seep. A rockfish is sheltering within the grotto as well. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1754, VI14.
A photo from the Jason van screen showing exposed methane hydrate at Einsteins's Grotto - the first time we have observed it there.
A photo from the Jason van screen showing exposed methane hydrate at Einsteins's Grotto - the first time we have observed it there.
A small block of hydrate is exposed in a collapsed zone by Einsteins' Grotto as viewed in 2023. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542; V23.
A small block of hydrate is exposed in a collapsed zone by Einsteins' Grotto as viewed in 2023. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542; V23.
mechanical arm reaching for a rock
The manipulator arm of the ROV ROPOS reaches for a small block of methane hydrate wedged against a small rampart and nearly vertical wall within a large collapsed area at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Several minutes after sampling this site with the ROV, a continuous jet of methane bubbles issued from the large opening to the right of the hydrate sample. The methane hydrate is translucent, very clean and is reminiscent of quartz with a conchoidal-like fracture pattern and is partially encased in a thin skin of sediment. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1784; V14.
ROPOS holds a small piece of translucent methane hydrate - upon release by the manipulator jaws, the methane-ice floated upwards into the water column, confirming to all viewers, that indeed it was methane hydrate. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1748; V14.  
ROPOS holds a small piece of translucent methane hydrate - upon release by the manipulator jaws, the methane-ice floated upwards into the water column, confirming to all viewers, that indeed it was methane hydrate. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1748; V14.  
rocks fish and crabs on the seafloor
Purple hagfish, speckled sole, red rockfish, starfish and crabs thrive at Southern Hydrate Ridge with diverse substrates to call home. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI. V20.
Base of the 60 m tall carbonate pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge where Jason will be working during dive J2-508. Image taken by the Tow-Cam operated by D. Fornari, Woods Hole as part of the UW Insite'08 cruise. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI.
Base of the 60 m tall carbonate pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge where Jason will be working during dive J2-508. Image taken by the Tow-Cam operated by D. Fornari, Woods Hole as part of the UW Insite'08 cruise. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI.
A fissure in the carbonate chemoherm called the Pinnacle is a site of microbial mats indicating methane is seeping from the deposit. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
A fissure in the carbonate chemoherm called the Pinnacle is a site of microbial mats indicating methane is seeping from the deposit. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
The Pinnacle, on the west of the main methane seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge, is a 60 m tall, rugged carbonate edifice teaming with life - dominated by high densities of soft corals, hagfish, and small squat lobsters that hide in small cavities. Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/ISS, V15.
The Pinnacle, on the west of the main methane seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge, is a 60 m tall, rugged carbonate edifice teaming with life - dominated by high densities of soft corals, hagfish, and small squat lobsters that hide in small cavities. Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/ISS, V15.
Rugged carbonate deposits make up the Pinnacle chemoherm. The nooks and crannies form wonderful homes to myriad animals - here crabs are making use of the safe habitat. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
Rugged carbonate deposits make up the Pinnacle chemoherm. The nooks and crannies form wonderful homes to myriad animals - here crabs are making use of the safe habitat. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
An old Ocean Drilling Program hole serves as a nursery for hagfish and crabs at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
An old Ocean Drilling Program hole serves as a nursery for hagfish and crabs at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
This image was taken during the UW INSITE'08 cruise as part of the Ocean Observatories Initiative. The image was taken with D. Fornar's Tow-Cam system. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI.WHOI.
This image was taken during the UW INSITE'08 cruise as part of the Ocean Observatories Initiative. The image was taken with D. Fornar's Tow-Cam system. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI.WHOI.
Fossil-rich carbonate sample from the Pinnacle on Southern Hydrate Ridge collected with Jason 2. Credit: M Elend, University of Washington.  
Fossil-rich carbonate sample from the Pinnacle on Southern Hydrate Ridge collected with Jason 2. Credit: M Elend, University of Washington.  
A carbonate sample rich in fossilized gastropods from Southern Hydrate Ridge collected with Jason 2. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
A carbonate sample rich in fossilized gastropods from Southern Hydrate Ridge collected with Jason 2. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
A carbonate sample from Southern Hydrate Ridge collected on TN252, Jason dive J2-512. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
A carbonate sample from Southern Hydrate Ridge collected on TN252, Jason dive J2-512. Credit: M. Elend, University of Washington.
We encountered a little piece of Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) at Hydrate Ridge during survey dive R1754. The flamingo has seen better days, but it is also now hosting some invertebrate friends. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1754, VISIONS14
We encountered a little piece of Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) at Hydrate Ridge during survey dive R1754. The flamingo has seen better days, but it is also now hosting some invertebrate friends. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1754, VISIONS14
mechanical arm with bottles attached over white bacterial mats
Einstein's Grotto, at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge, is a main target site for installation of cabled chemical and biological sensors in 2014. The area hosts extensive white bacterial mats and was a site of vigorous venting of large methane bubbles. This 2011 image, shows water sampling bottles on the arm of the Canadian robotic vehicle ROPOS. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF. V14.
Jason preparing to recover the mass spectrometer at Hydrate Ridge (780m), next to a mound covered in bacterial mat. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Jason preparing to recover the mass spectrometer at Hydrate Ridge (780m), next to a mound covered in bacterial mat. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Clams at Southern Hydrate Ridge host symbiotic microbes. This colony is perched at the ledge above Einstein's Grotto, which in 2013 was actively venting. Ccredit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
Clams at Southern Hydrate Ridge host symbiotic microbes. This colony is perched at the ledge above Einstein's Grotto, which in 2013 was actively venting. Ccredit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
Clams are commonly found at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge surrounding areas of white bacterial mat.
Clams are commonly found at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge surrounding areas of white bacterial mat.
These clams thrive in hydrogen sulfide-rich environments, like the methane seep at Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge. They usually have white shells and are typically partially buried beneath the sediment. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1750; V14.
These clams thrive in hydrogen sulfide-rich environments, like the methane seep at Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge. They usually have white shells and are typically partially buried beneath the sediment. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1750; V14.
Soft corals bend in the currents at the edge of a bacterial mat. Here, live clams with symbionts thrive in the methane and hydrogen sulfide-rich fluids. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1773; V14.
Soft corals bend in the currents at the edge of a bacterial mat. Here, live clams with symbionts thrive in the methane and hydrogen sulfide-rich fluids. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1773; V14.
Beggiatoa matting (white) at Southern Hydrate Ridge with small snails. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
Beggiatoa matting (white) at Southern Hydrate Ridge with small snails. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF
Thick bacteria mats rimmed by colonies of yellow worms at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Photo credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14
Thick bacteria mats rimmed by colonies of yellow worms at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Photo credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14
Beautiful soft corals are ubiquitous on carbonate deposits that form the Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
Beautiful soft corals are ubiquitous on carbonate deposits that form the Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
Beautiful soft corals are ubiquitous on carbonate deposits that form the Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
Beautiful soft corals are ubiquitous on carbonate deposits that form the Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
Soft corals dot the rough carbonate surfaces of the ~ 60 m-tall limestone monolith west of the active seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1779; V14.
Soft corals dot the rough carbonate surfaces of the ~ 60 m-tall limestone monolith west of the active seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1779; V14.
crumbly rock and round pink corals
Beautiful soft corals inhabit the hard carbonate substrate of the 60 m tall Pinnacle structure west of the major seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge. This site, at a water depth of ~ 550 m, hosts numerous white and orange bacterial mats, marking sites of weak venting of methane-rich fluids. The almost pumice-like structure of the pinnacle provides ample places for animals to live - small shrimp are extremely abundant. The Pinnacle is likely the fossilized 'throa'/plumbing system for a more ancient seep site that once inhabited this area.
A beautiful colony of soft corals grow atop carbonate blocks at the Pinnacle on Southern Hydrate Ridge.
A beautiful colony of soft corals grow atop carbonate blocks at the Pinnacle on Southern Hydrate Ridge.
A rockfish (possibly a Pacific Ocean perch) rests near Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
A rockfish (possibly a Pacific Ocean perch) rests near Einstein's Grotto at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
A rockfish and a pedicellasterid starfish (possibly Ampheraster sp.) are intermixed with clams near a bacterial mat on the methane seep site, Southern Hydrate Ridge during ROPOS Dive R1850. Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, V15.
A rockfish and a pedicellasterid starfish (possibly Ampheraster sp.) are intermixed with clams near a bacterial mat on the methane seep site, Southern Hydrate Ridge during ROPOS Dive R1850. Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, V15.
A rockfish hides out in a blow-out at Einsteins' Grotto. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1754, V22.
A rockfish hides out in a blow-out at Einsteins' Grotto. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1754, V22.
A rockfish hangs out with soft corals at the carbonate Pinnacle deposit at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
A rockfish hangs out with soft corals at the carbonate Pinnacle deposit at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
A rockfish hangs out with soft corals at the carbonate Pinnacle deposit at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
A rockfish hangs out with soft corals at the carbonate Pinnacle deposit at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20.
Rock fish at ~ 800 m water depth at the 60 m-tall carbonate site 'Pinnacle' at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF.
Rock fish at ~ 800 m water depth at the 60 m-tall carbonate site 'Pinnacle' at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF.
Rockfish, pink soft corals, blue-purple hagfish, clams and starfish thrive around seep environments that host white bacterial mats. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; V17.
Rockfish, pink soft corals, blue-purple hagfish, clams and starfish thrive around seep environments that host white bacterial mats. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; V17.
A bubblegum coral (Paragorgia arborea) seen at Pinnacle, west of the main seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A bubblegum coral (Paragorgia arborea) seen at Pinnacle, west of the main seep sites at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A stunning coral grows near the base of the Pinnacle chemoherm and is visited by a rockfish. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542; V23.
A stunning coral grows near the base of the Pinnacle chemoherm and is visited by a rockfish. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542; V23.
This rosy Tritonia tetraquetra nudibranch was seen sitting on a marker at the Pinnacle, west of Southern Hydrate Ridge. It was near some soft corals, some of which were missing polyps, and had clearly been grazed on by this sea pen and soft coral specialist predator! Photo credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
This rosy Tritonia tetraquetra nudibranch was seen sitting on a marker at the Pinnacle, west of Southern Hydrate Ridge. It was near some soft corals, some of which were missing polyps, and had clearly been grazed on by this sea pen and soft coral specialist predator! Photo credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A beautiful soft coral grows from the carbonate deposit called Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
A beautiful soft coral grows from the carbonate deposit called Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
A beautiful soft coral attached to hard substrate at Southern Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A beautiful soft coral attached to hard substrate at Southern Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
mage of soft coral taken by the ROV ROPOS on dive R1750 at the Summit of Southern Hydrate Ride. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1750; V14.
mage of soft coral taken by the ROV ROPOS on dive R1750 at the Summit of Southern Hydrate Ride. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1750; V14.
This coral is not rigid, but is soft -it does not produce a calcium carbonate skeleton. The soft coral is at Southern Hydrate Ridge and the Pinnacle at depths around 775 m deep.
This coral is not rigid, but is soft -it does not produce a calcium carbonate skeleton. The soft coral is at Southern Hydrate Ridge and the Pinnacle at depths around 775 m deep.
An ~60 m tall carbonate pinnacle, west of the active seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge, hosts abundant soft pink corals and is a rich habitat for squat lobsters, clams, a variety of fish, and crabs. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1779; V14.
An ~60 m tall carbonate pinnacle, west of the active seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge, hosts abundant soft pink corals and is a rich habitat for squat lobsters, clams, a variety of fish, and crabs. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1779; V14.
Close up of a soft coral at the southern end of an ~ 60 m tall carbonate Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge.
Close up of a soft coral at the southern end of an ~ 60 m tall carbonate Pinnacle at Southern Hydrate Ridge.
A forest of soft corals grows on the Pinnacle carbonate deposit at Southern Hydrate RIdge. It is also home to crabs, bacterial mats, shrimp, hagfish, and rockfish.
A forest of soft corals grows on the Pinnacle carbonate deposit at Southern Hydrate RIdge. It is also home to crabs, bacterial mats, shrimp, hagfish, and rockfish.
A Beroe ctenophore (comb jelly) seen at Pinnacle, near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Soft corals attached to authigenic carbonate outcrops can be seen in the background. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A Beroe ctenophore (comb jelly) seen at Pinnacle, near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Soft corals attached to authigenic carbonate outcrops can be seen in the background. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
Dinner plate jellies are found in the water column at depths of 700 to 1000 meters. They were seen frequently at Hydrate Ridge in the water column at various depths. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1777; V14
Dinner plate jellies are found in the water column at depths of 700 to 1000 meters. They were seen frequently at Hydrate Ridge in the water column at various depths. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1777; V14
A sole lounges on the sedimented seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20
A sole lounges on the sedimented seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20
A sole lounges on the sedimented seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20
A sole lounges on the sedimented seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI. V20
This sole is at Southern Hydrate Ridge at ~800 m water depth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1765; V14.
This sole is at Southern Hydrate Ridge at ~800 m water depth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1765; V14.
A small flatfish at Einstein's Grotto on Southern Hydrate Ridge, encountered during a survey dive. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
A small flatfish at Einstein's Grotto on Southern Hydrate Ridge, encountered during a survey dive. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
A deep sea sole, surrounded by clam shells at Southern Hydrate Ridge (~ 800 m water depth). Credit. UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
A deep sea sole, surrounded by clam shells at Southern Hydrate Ridge (~ 800 m water depth). Credit. UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
A deep-sea sole and a bubblegum coral seen near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A deep-sea sole and a bubblegum coral seen near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A deep-sea sole swims towards the ROV during a survey at Pinnacle, near Southern Hydrate Ridge. The marker on the left is from a previous expedition, and is now home to soft corals, rockfish and a nudibranch. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A deep-sea sole swims towards the ROV during a survey at Pinnacle, near Southern Hydrate Ridge. The marker on the left is from a previous expedition, and is now home to soft corals, rockfish and a nudibranch. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
This Sole at Southern Hydrate Ridge is at a depth of 769 m. It was laying along the seafloor in cobbly sediment. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1765; V14.
This Sole at Southern Hydrate Ridge is at a depth of 769 m. It was laying along the seafloor in cobbly sediment. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1765; V14.
This squished-looking Flapjack octopus (Opisthoteuthis sp.) was seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge during a site survey in 2022. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R2228, V22.
This squished-looking Flapjack octopus (Opisthoteuthis sp.) was seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge during a site survey in 2022. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, ROPOS Dive R2228, V22.
A large skate lounges in sediment in between carbonate blocks at Southern Hydrate Ridge. A soft coral is by its tail. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542.
A large skate lounges in sediment in between carbonate blocks at Southern Hydrate Ridge. A soft coral is by its tail. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542.
A skate rests in the sediment at Southern Hydrate Ridge. This area is also home to snails, rockfish, crabs, anemones, starfish, and soft corals. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI: J2-1542; V23.
A skate rests in the sediment at Southern Hydrate Ridge. This area is also home to snails, rockfish, crabs, anemones, starfish, and soft corals. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI: J2-1542; V23.
The roughtail skate has a broad nose and sharp scales on the surface. Roughtail skates are around 91 cm in length. This skate was seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1777; V14.
The roughtail skate has a broad nose and sharp scales on the surface. Roughtail skates are around 91 cm in length. This skate was seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1777; V14.
A sable fish rests along side a poor crab that is hosting sea anemones and a variety of growth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J-1542; V23.
A sable fish rests along side a poor crab that is hosting sea anemones and a variety of growth. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J-1542; V23.
Hagfish (purple), red rockfish, crabs, and hermit crabs wander within the nursery for Neptunea snails laying eggs that form yellow stalks on carbonate cobbles. Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1766; V14.
Hagfish (purple), red rockfish, crabs, and hermit crabs wander within the nursery for Neptunea snails laying eggs that form yellow stalks on carbonate cobbles. Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1766; V14.
A rockfish and hermit crabs hang out in a field of yellow Neptunea snail egg stalks at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge
A rockfish and hermit crabs hang out in a nursery of Neptunea snails at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge.The snail stalks rise from small carbonate cobbles. Photo credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1766; V14.
A nursery of Neptunea snails rest atop their egg stalks, babysitting them until the adult snails die and fall off the stalks. The eggs are laid on small carbonate cobbles. Rockfish, sole, spider crabs, and hermit crabs wander through the forest of stalks. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1758; V14.  
A nursery of Neptunea snails rest atop their egg stalks, babysitting them until the adult snails die and fall off the stalks. The eggs are laid on small carbonate cobbles. Rockfish, sole, spider crabs, and hermit crabs wander through the forest of stalks. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1758; V14.  
Close up of a Neptunea snail on its egg stalk at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1758; V14.
Close up of a Neptunea snail on its egg stalk at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1758; V14.
These snails lay eggs in a spiral tower and the adult snail sits on top of the tower waiting for the eggs to hatch. The snails were all clustered together along a cable route SUM1W2 at Southern Hydrate Ridge. We did not see the snails at any location other than here. The depth at this location was 776 m. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1758; V14
These snails lay eggs in a spiral tower and the adult snail sits on top of the tower waiting for the eggs to hatch. The snails were all clustered together along a cable route SUM1W2 at Southern Hydrate Ridge. We did not see the snails at any location other than here. The depth at this location was 776 m. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1758; V14
A close up of a beautiful stalk of Neptunea snail eggs recovered from Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: Mitch Elend, University of Washington, V15.
A close up of a beautiful stalk of Neptunea snail eggs recovered from Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: Mitch Elend, University of Washington, V15.
Eelpouts have been spotted at Southern Hydrate Ridge around the FLOBN-MOS1 site at a water depth of ~775 m Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1784; V14.
Eelpouts have been spotted at Southern Hydrate Ridge around the FLOBN-MOS1 site at a water depth of ~775 m Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1784; V14.
An eelpout resting on the sediment at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
An eelpout resting on the sediment at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A hagfish curled up on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge, water depth ~ 780 m. Credit: RCA, University of Washington. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A hagfish curled up on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge, water depth ~ 780 m. Credit: RCA, University of Washington. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A purple-hued hagfish weaves its way through the rugged limestone rock at the Pinnacle at South Hydrate. A pink octocoral and orange squat lobster complete the trio. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1606
A purple-hued hagfish weaves its way through the rugged limestone rock at the Pinnacle at South Hydrate. A pink octocoral and orange squat lobster complete the trio. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1606
Hagfish, corals, lobster at Southern Hydrate Ridge.Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/CSSF.
Hagfish, corals, lobster at Southern Hydrate Ridge.Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/CSSF.
A hagfish with mouth wide open slithers around the Southern Hydrate Ridge methane seep site. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
A hagfish with mouth wide open slithers around the Southern Hydrate Ridge methane seep site. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V18.
A hagfish burrowing into the sediment near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A hagfish burrowing into the sediment near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
Southern Hydrate Ridge is now an 'essential fish habitat". Here, rockfish, hagfish and crabs are commonly seen with the ROV as will as clam chaff away from the seeps. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF;V22.
Southern Hydrate Ridge is now an 'essential fish habitat". Here, rockfish, hagfish and crabs are commonly seen with the ROV as will as clam chaff away from the seeps. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF;V22.
This Corallimorph anemone was spotted on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge at a depth of 774 meters. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1772; V14.
This Corallimorph anemone was spotted on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge at a depth of 774 meters. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1772; V14.
Burrowing anemone imaged during ROPOS dive R1750. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
Burrowing anemone imaged during ROPOS dive R1750. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1750; V14.
Neptune Canada’s guide included it in the “sea anemone” category because of similarity, but it belongs to another order: Corallimorpharia. This Corallimorph anemone was spotted on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge at a depth of 774 m.
Neptune Canada’s guide included it in the “sea anemone” category because of similarity, but it belongs to another order: Corallimorpharia. This Corallimorph anemone was spotted on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge at a depth of 774 m.
The anemone we found was purple in color and only had tentacles on the top around its oral disc, it was unable to be properly identified. This anemone was found on a rock at a depth of 775 m at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1758; V14.
The anemone we found was purple in color and only had tentacles on the top around its oral disc, it was unable to be properly identified. This anemone was found on a rock at a depth of 775 m at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1758; V14.
The Scarlet King Crab was seen at multiple locations along Hydrate Ridge. It was often found in sandier substrate, however it was also found among a large group of snails. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1758; V14
The Scarlet King Crab was seen at multiple locations along Hydrate Ridge. It was often found in sandier substrate, however it was also found among a large group of snails. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive 1758; V14
A king crab walking along the seafloor near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
A king crab walking along the seafloor near Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, Dive R2228, V22.
Crab sitting near carbonate cobble at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1750; V14.  
Crab sitting near carbonate cobble at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Photo credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1750; V14.  
A spiny pink crab (missing a rear leg) seen at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A spiny pink crab (missing a rear leg) seen at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A tanner crab next to bacterial mat at Southern Hydrate Ridge (780m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
A tanner crab next to bacterial mat at Southern Hydrate Ridge (780m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
A hermit crab (Pagurus sp.) seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge during VISIONS'21.
A hermit crab (Pagurus sp.) seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge during VISIONS'21.
A pair of hermit crabs (possibly mating?) at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A pair of hermit crabs (possibly mating?) at Hydrate Ridge, near Einstein's Grotto. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
Hermit crabs belonging to the genus Pagurus use snail shells as homes. There are over 170 species of hermit crab in this genus. These two hermit crabs were seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge at depth of 774 m. The species was unable to be identified. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1750; V14
Hermit crabs belonging to the genus Pagurus use snail shells as homes. There are over 170 species of hermit crab in this genus. These two hermit crabs were seen at Southern Hydrate Ridge at depth of 774 m. The species was unable to be identified. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive 1750; V14
ROPOS making the connection between the extension cable from Primary Node PN1B and Southern Hydrate Ridge - allowing this site to go live again. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V22.
ROPOS making the connection between the extension cable from Primary Node PN1B and Southern Hydrate Ridge - allowing this site to go live again. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V22.
ROPOS arm freeing osmotic water sampler from tool basket. Credit. UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, V22.
ROPOS arm freeing osmotic water sampler from tool basket. Credit. UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF, V22.
Replacing the caisson cover at Southern Hydrate Ridge, after inspecting the eventual deployment location of a seismometer at that site. The caisson (the hole in the sediment at center) was excavated using a suction tube attached to the ROV during a previous expedition. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
Replacing the caisson cover at Southern Hydrate Ridge, after inspecting the eventual deployment location of a seismometer at that site. The caisson (the hole in the sediment at center) was excavated using a suction tube attached to the ROV during a previous expedition. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
The ROV ROPOS vacuums out sediment in a caisson at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. In 2014, a broadband seismometer will be placed in the caisson and covered in silica beads to optimize acquisition of acoustic signals by lowering ocean "noise" (e.g. currents). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF.
The ROV ROPOS vacuums out sediment in a caisson at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. In 2014, a broadband seismometer will be placed in the caisson and covered in silica beads to optimize acquisition of acoustic signals by lowering ocean "noise" (e.g. currents). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF.
metal ball and orange cable in a blue cylinder on the seafloor
A broadband seismometer installed inside a buried caisson at Southern Hydrate Ridge by the ROV ROPOS. A follow-on dive will fill the caisson with silica beads, which dampens noise. The broadband and low frequency hydrophone is installed here to detect both large and small earthquakes that may impact the release of methane gas into the hydrosphere. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1779; V14.
A caisson lid at Southern Hydrate Ridge decorated with an octopus and a Basho haiku during a previous VISIONS cruise. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
A caisson lid at Southern Hydrate Ridge decorated with an octopus and a Basho haiku during a previous VISIONS cruise. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF, ROPOS Dive R1750, V14.
A Starry Flounder hangs out during installation of short-period seismometers at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1769; V14.
A Starry Flounder hangs out during installation of short-period seismometers at Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI//CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1769; V14.
This caisson is buried to about 1 m depth beneath the sediments. Next year a broadband seismometer will be placed in it and connected to the cable, providing real-time detection and location of earthquakes. A cover was placed over the caisson to keep sediment from falling into it and animals out. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF. V13.
This caisson is buried to about 1 m depth beneath the sediments. Next year a broadband seismometer will be placed in it and connected to the cable, providing real-time detection and location of earthquakes. A cover was placed over the caisson to keep sediment from falling into it and animals out. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF. V13.
A Mosquito, developed by UW Marine Geologist, Evan Solomon, is deployed at a methane seep at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The instrument pulls in fluids in the sediments with a tracer. The instruments are recovered annually and the fluid chemistry analyzed, providing calculations of the flow of fluids both into, and out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; V17.
A Mosquito, developed by UW Marine Geologist, Evan Solomon, is deployed at a methane seep at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The instrument pulls in fluids in the sediments with a tracer. The instruments are recovered annually and the fluid chemistry analyzed, providing calculations of the flow of fluids both into, and out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF/WHOI; V17.
This instrument, nicknamed a "Mosquito" was deployed in 2011 at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. It will be recovered during VISIONS'13 and replaced by two additional mosquitos. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V11.
This instrument, nicknamed a "Mosquito" was deployed in 2011 at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. It will be recovered during VISIONS'13 and replaced by two additional mosquitos. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; V11.
A Mosquito; flow meter (far left) and osmotic fluid sampler (far right) installed in methane seep at Southern Hydrate Ridge. A second Mosquito, colonized by organisms, awaits recovery. These instruments provide fluid chemistry information, as well as calculations of fluid flow in and out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1772; V14.
A Mosquito; flow meter (far left) and osmotic fluid sampler (far right) installed in methane seep at Southern Hydrate Ridge. A second Mosquito, colonized by organisms, awaits recovery. These instruments provide fluid chemistry information, as well as calculations of fluid flow in and out of the seafloor. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; Dive R1772; V14.
The digital still camera (CAMDSB103) sits atop a small, heavily sedimented rampart in front of the actively venting methane seep Einstein's Grotto at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1767; V14.
The digital still camera (CAMDSB103) sits atop a small, heavily sedimented rampart in front of the actively venting methane seep Einstein's Grotto at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1767; V14.
A new Osmotic fluid sampler (left) is installed in adjacent to one deployed in 2020 at an active methane seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. White bacterial mats and clams thrive here, supported by the diffuse flow of fluids. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V21.
A new Osmotic fluid sampler (left) is installed in adjacent to one deployed in 2020 at an active methane seep site at Southern Hydrate Ridge. White bacterial mats and clams thrive here, supported by the diffuse flow of fluids. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V21.
Hagfish investigate flow meters called Mosquitos at methane seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge (water depth ~800 m). Data from these instruments allow calculation of the flux of fluids into and out of sediments at this gas hydrate site marked by thick bacterial mats and abundant clams. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V16.
Hagfish investigate flow meters called Mosquitos at methane seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge (water depth ~800 m). Data from these instruments allow calculation of the flux of fluids into and out of sediments at this gas hydrate site marked by thick bacterial mats and abundant clams. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; V16.
One of Evan Solomon's mosquitoes (a flow meter) deployed at Southern Hydrate Ridge August 14, 2011 with the ROV ROPOS. 
One of Evan Solomon's mosquitoes (a flow meter) deployed at Southern Hydrate Ridge August 14, 2011 with the ROV ROPOS. 
This rotating overview sonar (R2Sonic 2022) provides 360° imaging of all bubble plumes issuing from the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: MARUM/UW/WHOI;V18
This rotating overview sonar (R2Sonic 2022) provides 360° imaging of all bubble plumes issuing from the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: MARUM/UW/WHOI;V18
An overview sonar being installed at Southern Hydrate Ridge - the multibeam's "head" is in the down position, prior to completion of the installation. Credit: UW/NSF_OOI/MARUM, V19.
An overview sonar being installed at Southern Hydrate Ridge - the multibeam's "head" is in the down position, prior to completion of the installation. Credit: UW/NSF_OOI/MARUM, V19.
The newly deployed MARUM OverSeer sonar following deployment at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m) during VISIONS '19. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The newly deployed MARUM OverSeer sonar following deployment at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m) during VISIONS '19. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The German MARUM sonar deployed at Southern Hydrate Ridge during VISIONS'21. The multibeam sonar looks for naturally occurring methane bubble plumes at this site. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V21
The German MARUM sonar deployed at Southern Hydrate Ridge during VISIONS'21. The multibeam sonar looks for naturally occurring methane bubble plumes at this site. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V21
Seeing the LED light turn on provides verification of operational status of the newly deployed MARUM 4K camera at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Seeing the LED light turn on provides verification of operational status of the newly deployed MARUM 4K camera at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Jason looking at the newly deployed MARUM 4K camera, which is aimed at a crevice with active methane bubble activity on Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
Jason looking at the newly deployed MARUM 4K camera, which is aimed at a crevice with active methane bubble activity on Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The Oregon State/Harvard benthic microbial fuel cell (CH4-BMFC) sitting on a white bacterial mat at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). The anode is in the sediment, and the cathode is the black "feather boa" on the vertical component. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The Oregon State/Harvard benthic microbial fuel cell (CH4-BMFC) sitting on a white bacterial mat at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). The anode is in the sediment, and the cathode is the black "feather boa" on the vertical component. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The newly deployed benthic microbial fuel cell (CH4-BMFC) on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
The newly deployed benthic microbial fuel cell (CH4-BMFC) on the seafloor at Southern Hydrate Ridge (770m). Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI, V19
An in situ, cabled mass spectrometer is installed at a methane seep at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. The OOI-RCA mass spectrometer was built by Peter Girguis, Harvard University. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1772; V14.
An in situ, cabled mass spectrometer is installed at a methane seep at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge. The OOI-RCA mass spectrometer was built by Peter Girguis, Harvard University. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/CSSF; ROPOS Dive R1772; V14.
A CAT flow meter near Einstein's Grotto. It is home to a rockfish and sea star. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
A CAT flow meter near Einstein's Grotto. It is home to a rockfish and sea star. Photo Credit: NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF, Dive R1750, V14
During VISIONS'13 two types of flow meters (CAT and Mosquito) were deployed at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge near the Einstein's Grotto active seep site - each instrument has specific ranges of flow that they measure. They will be recovered in 2014, providing year-long records of flow into and out of the sediment. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF//CSSF; V13
During VISIONS'13 two types of flow meters (CAT and Mosquito) were deployed at the summit of Southern Hydrate Ridge near the Einstein's Grotto active seep site - each instrument has specific ranges of flow that they measure. They will be recovered in 2014, providing year-long records of flow into and out of the sediment. Credit: UW/OOI-NSF//CSSF; V13
Map showing the survey plan for Jason dive J2-511. This dive, which will be conducted within the red box, will be a detailed survey of a previously identified active methane seep site.
Map showing the survey plan for Jason dive J2-511. This dive, which will be conducted within the red box, will be a detailed survey of a previously identified active methane seep site.
A flamingo maker installed several years ago by MBARI stands in a microbial mat a Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.
A flamingo maker installed several years ago by MBARI stands in a microbial mat a Southern Hydrate Ridge. Credit: UW/NSF-OOI/WHOI; J2-1542, V23.