Structural control and depth clustering of extensive hydrothermal venting on the shelf of Milos Island

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: High-resolution geophysical surveys, complemented by chemical, physical, and visual data collected via the ROV MARUM-SQUID, revealed a previously undocumented intermediate-depth hydrothermal vent field (30-230 m) on the shelf of Milos Island, Greece. Three primary vent areas-Aghia Kiriaki, Paleochori-Thiorychia, and Vani-are aligned with ENE-WSW and NW-SE trending active faults, which define the SE coast of Milos and the Milos Gulf-Fyriplaka graben, deepening the Milos shelf up to 230 m. All areas exhibit a distinct bimodal vent distribution, with peaks at ~ 130 m and ~ 180 m; the Paleochori-Thiorychia region additionally hosts a cluster near 210 m. Shallow vents occur on flat, sandy substrates with white microbial mats and gas emissions, whereas deeper vents feature extensive microbial mats, CO₂-degassing chimneys, and actively boiling fluids exceeding 180 °C, indicative of persistent hydrothermal activity. Although the cause of the bimodal -and, in one case, trimodal-distribution remains uncertain, our findings offer a comprehensive, high-resolution characterization of the spatial distribution, morphology, and fluid characteristics of intermediate-depth hydrothermal venting on the Milos shelf.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-26398-y

Institutions: National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Constructor University, University of Bremen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment

Language: English

Topic: Geological and Geophysical Studies

Subfield: Geology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690

Funders: Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, Universität Bremen

OpenAlex ID: W4416815442