They discovered the new hydrothermal field Karambusel on the ocean floor of Papua New Guinea’s coastline. Made during SONNE expedition SO299 DYNAMET in 2023, this is a remarkable finding. Yet, its unusual features and ecological significance have captured global attention.
Karambusel lies at least 1,300 meters deep on the eastern side of Conical Seamount. This remote archipelago is located in the north and western Pacific Ocean. Its name derives from the local Tok Pisin language. Its name means “mussel,” nodding to the dense populations of mussels (Bathymodiolus) discovered in this region. This unprecedented find underscores the geological contrariness of the Pacific seabed. In addition, it shines a spotlight on the unique marine ecosystem pulsating within these harsh realms.
Discovery and Research Team
Lead authorship of the discovery of Karambusel was taken by GEOMAR Helmholtz Center for Ocean Research Kiel. Dr. Philipp Brandl, a marine geologist at GEOMAR. Of course, he was instrumental in studying what makes this hydrothermal system special. The research team adopted an embedded research model. They involved local observer Stanis Konabe of the University of Papua New Guinea, making sure local expertise informed and enhanced the study.
SONNE expedition SO299 DYNAMET carried out an impressive large scale of subsea exploration and sampling. Paired with the discovery of new marine fauna was the discovery of significant geological phenomena. The team’s work has helped improve understanding of how hydrothermal systems can drastically shape the ocean floor and impact local ecosystems.
Unique Hydrothermal Features
Karambusel stands out due to its globally unique system where two significant processes occur simultaneously: the release of hot hydrothermal fluids and unusually high concentrations of methane and other hydrocarbons. This combined dark-forest bright-water environment makes an ideal habitat. It teems with large and bizarre marine life including tube worms, shrimp, amphipods and purple sea cucumbers.
The Karambusel exhalation is particularly striking in that it has an active concentration of over 80% methane. This poses major concerns regarding its environmental impact and adverse effects on marine animals. As fluids heated by the magma rise to the surface, these conditions generate a remarkable chemistry far below the ground. In order to do this, an incredible array of species have evolved to live in these harsh conditions.
Karambusel is located in proximity to the new Ladolam gold mine located on Lihir Island. There, it’s perfectly acceptable to dump waste and other residues directly into the sea. The mine’s close proximity raises alarm about environmental impacts. Last summer’s forays there showed signs of a long-lost high temperature era, one rich in precious metals, while present-day activity occurs in a decidedly cooler climate. Grasping how these beneficial processes are working in tandem is key to evaluating the site’s ecological integrity.
Ecological Impact and Future Research
The intriguing interplay of geological features with biological processes at Karambusel presents fascinating opportunities for future research. The hydrothermal field serves as a unique living, natural laboratory for marine scientists. It opens a window into how life flourishes even in some of the most extreme climates. As scientists touch the luminous depths of this unexplored habitat, they will accumulate rich and informative data on species diversity, community dynamics, and ecosystem function.
Dr. Brandl’s research on Karambusel has been recently published in the journal Scientific Reports. This important discovery elucidates hydrothermal systems around the world and learn what it means for science exploration. The results highlight the need to safeguard these sensitive ecosystems while allowing for industrial development in surrounding areas.