The Lost City Hydrothermal Field, located on the Atlantis Massif in the mid-Atlantic Ocean, is a remarkable deep-sea ecosystem that has captivated scientists since its discovery in 2000. Unlike typical hydrothermal vents fueled by volcanic activity, Lost City is powered by serpentinization, a chemical reaction between seawater and mantle rocks, producing hydrogen and methane that sustain unique microbial life. Towering carbonate chimneys, some reaching heights of 60 meters (200 feet), release warm, alkaline fluids rich in minerals, creating a stark contrast to the scalding, acidic environments of black smoker vents.
Lost City Hydrothermal Field
