New Life in Lost City
Hydrothermal Field consists of some 30 large vents made up of carbonate minerals, which range from 10 to 60 meters in height, and hundreds of smaller structures.
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
Hydrothermal Field consists of some 30 large vents made up of carbonate minerals, which range from 10 to 60 meters in height, and hundreds of smaller structures. Microbial life in and around the vents thrives in the absence of carbon dioxide, which is the key energy source for life at better-known black-smoker hydrothermal vents. Instead, Lost City microbes appear to live off of methane and hydrogen. In addition, the fluid percolating through the site reaches just 170 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to the scorching 700 degrees F emitted by black smokers. A month-long excursion to the Lost City, described in the current issue of the journal Science, found large numbers of microorganisms in the vicinity as well as translucent crabs, shrimp and fish.
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.
