Northwest Rota, Active submarine volcano in Mariana Islands, Western Pacific Ocean.
Northwest Rota is an active submarine volcano in the western Pacific that rises several hundred meters from the ocean floor. Its structure includes multiple volcanic vents and craters that continuously release hydrothermal fluids.
This volcano was discovered in 2003 through its hydrothermal activity, prompting scientific investigation. In 2004, researchers witnessed the first known underwater explosive eruptions at this site.
Marine researchers study this location to understand how volcanic activity affects deep-sea life. The findings here contribute to our knowledge of extreme ecosystems in the ocean.
Access requires specialized deep-sea vessels and permits from the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument administration. Only authorized research teams can visit this remote underwater location.
The volcano releases enormous quantities of carbon dioxide annually through its vents, creating underwater plumes of molten sulfur below the sea surface. These phenomena are uncommon and difficult to observe, making this location particularly interesting to volcanologists.
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