Volcanic activity doesn't just shape our landscapes—it has a profound effect on our oceans. Underwater volcanoes and eruptions can affect water temperature, chemistry and marine biodiversity, changing the shape of underwater ecosystems. This article looks at how volcanic eruptions affect marine life and highlights some of the most active volcanoes in 2024 based on recent activity reports.
How volcanic eruptions affect marine life and ecosystems
Underwater volcanic eruptions generate heat and release chemicals such as sulfur and carbon dioxide, changing the ocean's chemistry. These events can have both destructive and beneficial effects on marine ecosystems:
Water temperature and chemistry: Eruptions release heat and minerals, creating "thermal plumes" that temporarily raise ocean temperatures. Increased water temperature creates stress for marine species, especially those that do not tolerate heat well.
Habitat changes: Lava flows reshape the ocean floor, creating new substrates for organisms. Over time, cooled lava can promote biodiversity by creating hard surfaces where marine life such as corals, sponges, and algae can colonize.
Food web impact: Eruptions can cause algal blooms that provide nutrients to marine organisms. However, significant changes in pH levels and chemical composition can upset the balance, affecting species at all levels of the food chain.
Visible volcanic activity in 2024
Several volcanoes have shown significant activity this year, both on land and underwater. Here's a snapshot of new and ongoing volcanic activity affecting the marine environment:
New activity in 2024
1. Copahue Volcano, Chile-Argentina
Known for its frequent eruptions, Copahue affects nearby freshwater bodies that eventually flow into the ocean, altering the chemical balance in coastal regions.
2. Iya Volcano, Indonesia
This active volcano in Indonesia produces thermal springs that affect local fish populations, affecting the food chain in the surrounding waters.
3. Langila Volcano, Papua New Guinea
Langila's underwater emissions affect surrounding marine life, especially coral reefs that are sensitive to temperature changes.
4. Spurr Volcano, USA
Spurr's volcanic gases could lead to acidification of nearby waters, affecting sensitive marine life and coral reefs in Alaskan waters.
5. Taal Volcano, Philippines
Taal's eruptions release sulfur dioxide, which can acidify nearby bodies of water, affecting fish and other aquatic life in the region.
Constant volcanic activity
Aira in Japan and Dukono in Indonesia continue to erupt, spewing sulphur-rich gases that can travel long distances, affecting marine ecosystems in the Pacific Ocean.
Mount Sitkin, United States, and Ibu, Indonesia are contributing to ocean acidification, affecting marine biodiversity in nearby waters.
Popocatepetl, Mexico, and Semeru, Indonesia continue to impact terrestrial and coastal environments with ash and debris, indirectly disrupting marine ecosystems.
Long-term consequences for marine life
Underwater eruptions are part of Earth's natural cycle, but increased frequency and intensity can have long-term consequences for ocean health. Some species may adapt to new conditions created by volcanic activity, while others may disappear.
Volcanic activity, new or ongoing, continues to shape our planet's oceans. Monitoring these volcanoes helps scientists predict impacts on marine ecosystems and develop strategies to conserve biodiversity. By understanding and studying these natural phenomena, we can better appreciate the complex relationships between our oceans and volcanic activity.
Literature
1. NOAA Ocean Exploration and Research - Effects of Underwater Volcanic Activity on Marine Ecosystems
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