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

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 ma

SUBMITTER: Nomikou P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12660848 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature