Uncharted Depths: Exploring Seamounts 100m from the Surface Beyond Exclusive Economic Zones

Explore seamounts: Revealing the depths of the ocean

The vast expanse of the world’s oceans holds many mysteries and hidden wonders, and among them are seamounts, puzzling geological formations. Seamounts are underwater mountains that rise from the seafloor, often reaching great heights and displaying intricate topographies. They play a critical role in shaping marine ecosystems and are hotspots of biodiversity. But are there seamounts that are only 100 meters below the surface of the water and not within an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)? In this article we will explore the world of seamounts, their distribution and the presence of seamounts beyond EEZ boundaries.

Understanding the distribution and formation of seamounts

Seamounts are widespread throughout the world’s oceans, occurring in all major ocean basins. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small volcanic cones to massive structures that dwarf mountains on land. Seamounts are typically formed by volcanic activity, either as stand-alone features or as part of larger volcanic chains. As tectonic plates move and interact, magma rises from the Earth’s mantle, forming underwater volcanoes. Over time, as the volcanoes become inactive, they erode, leaving behind seamounts.

The distribution of seamounts is influenced by several factors, including tectonic plate boundaries, hotspot activity, and the age of the seafloor. Seamounts are often associated with mid-ocean ridges, which are underwater mountain ranges formed by the divergence of tectonic plates. As the plates move apart, magma rises, creating new seafloor and potentially giving rise to seamounts. In addition, hotspot activity, where a plume of magma rises from deep within the Earth, can lead to the formation of seamounts. These hotspots remain stationary as the tectonic plates move, resulting in the formation of linear chains of seamounts.

The Exclusive Economic Zone and Seamounts

The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area extending 200 nautical miles from a country’s coastline over which the country has special rights with respect to the exploration and use of marine resources. The establishment of EEZs is governed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). While seamounts can be found within EEZs, they can also exist outside of these zones, posing interesting governance and conservation challenges.

Seamounts located outside an EEZ fall within the high seas, which are areas beyond national jurisdiction. The high seas are governed by international law and their resources are considered to be the common heritage of mankind. However, the absence of an EEZ does not necessarily guarantee that seamounts are located within 100 meters of the water surface. Seamounts can vary greatly in depth, with some rising near the surface and others remaining submerged at greater depths. The specific depth characteristics of seamounts depend on their geologic history and the processes that have shaped them.

Exploring seamounts beyond EEZ boundaries

Exploration of seamounts beyond EEZ boundaries presents both scientific and governance challenges. From a scientific perspective, understanding the biodiversity and ecological importance of seamounts in these areas is critical. Seamounts serve as oases of life in the vast oceanic desert, providing habitats for a wide range of species. They can serve as feeding grounds, breeding grounds, and stepping stones for migratory species. Exploring seamounts beyond EEZs can shed light on the connectivity between different marine ecosystems and contribute to our understanding of the ocean’s ecological dynamics.

The governance of seamounts beyond EEZ boundaries is challenging due to the lack of a clear jurisdictional framework. Exploitation of seamount resources, such as deep-sea minerals and fisheries, requires international cooperation and coordination. Efforts are underway to develop frameworks for the sustainable management of high seas resources through organizations such as the International Seabed Authority and regional fisheries management organizations. These initiatives aim to balance resource use with the conservation and protection of seamount ecosystems.
In summary, while seamounts can be found both inside and outside EEZ boundaries, the presence of seamounts within 100 meters of the water surface and outside an EEZ is not a common occurrence. Seamounts vary in depth and their distribution is influenced by various geological processes. Exploring seamounts beyond EEZ boundaries presents scientific and governance challenges, but holds the promise of unlocking the secrets of these fascinating underwater mountains and their ecological importance.

FAQs

Q1: Are there seamounts as close as 100 m to the water surface and not inside any Exclusive Economic Zone?

A1: Yes, it is possible to find seamounts that are as close as 100 meters to the water surface and not located within any Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Q2: What are seamounts?

A2: Seamounts are underwater mountains that rise from the ocean floor but do not reach the water’s surface. They are typically formed by volcanic activity and can vary in size and shape.

Q3: What is an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)?

A3: An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area of oceanic space extending 200 nautical miles from a coastal state’s baseline. Within this zone, the coastal state has special rights and jurisdiction over the exploration and use of marine resources.

Q4: Why would seamounts be located outside of any Exclusive Economic Zone?

A4: Seamounts can be found outside of any Exclusive Economic Zone due to various reasons. They may be situated in international waters, which are not under the jurisdiction of any specific country. Additionally, some seamounts may be located near the boundaries of multiple EEZs, resulting in their position falling outside of any single zone.

Q5: How are seamounts identified and studied?

A5: Seamounts are often identified using sonar technology, which can detect the underwater topography. Once identified, scientists can study seamounts through various methods, including using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or manned submersibles to explore their depths and collect samples. They can also analyze the surrounding water and marine life to understand the ecological impact of seamounts.