Exploring animal life on a hydrothermal vent

Joined by colleagues from the University of Leeds and the University of Southampton, they found an array of animals living on the vent that might help us understand how life has adapted to these unique heated, chemical-rich, underwater places.

Watch the video below to discover how the team got up close to the incredible creatures that live on and around hydrothermal vents.

How to study a hydrothermal vent

The hydrothermal vent the team were studying is called Strýtan. While many hydrothermal vents form in the deep ocean, what makes Strýtan special is that it sits just 15 metres below the water’s surface, making it relatively easy to dive to.

Strýtan was discovered by local diver Erlendur in 1997. Since his discovery, the vent has become a scientific and social treasure, with Erlendur bringing researchers and divers to see this unique place. He’s been given the name ‘keeper of the vent’.

To study the life on Strýtan, our scientists and their colleagues first deployed a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to gather information. They then scuba-dived down to the vent to collect samples. In total, the team collected some 220 samples to take back to the temporary research lab they’d set up in a disused herring factory.

The samples were photographed and sub-samples were taken from them. These sub-samples were preserved so the team could study their DNA once they were back in London.

At hydrothermal vents, hot water and chemicals escape from the seafloor into the surrounding ocean, creating a home for a vibrant cluster of animals. Researchers are keen to find out if and how the creatures living on vents have adapted to these steamy underwater places.