An underwater volcano off the coast of Vancouver Island, initially believed to be dormant, has been revealed as an active geological marvel supporting a vast marine ecosystem. Researchers from Fisheries and Oceans Canada discovered mineral-rich hot water emissions during a 2019 exploration mission, confirming ongoing volcanic activity. This activity has created a unique thermal environment that supports a diverse array of marine life, including deep-sea corals and sponges.
The most significant discovery at this seamount, which rises over 3,600 feet from the ocean floor, is an extensive nursery of white skate ray eggs at its summit, nearly a mile below the surface. Scientists observed a substantial number of rays depositing their eggs, suggesting a profound link between geological processes and biological reproduction. Initial estimates suggest hundreds of thousands, possibly exceeding a million, of these large eggs, each encased in protective structures up to 20 inches long, have been found. This unprecedented aggregation offers a rare insight into the reproductive strategies of these elusive creatures.
White skate rays typically inhabit depths between 2,600 and 9,500 feet, making them challenging subjects for study. The strategic placement of their eggs near hydrothermal vents indicates a potential utilization of the volcano's warmth to accelerate embryonic development. Marine biologist Cherisse Du Preez notes that while incubation in the cold deep sea can take up to four years, the residual heat from the volcano could significantly shorten this period, acting as a natural incubator. The volcano's summit also provides a relatively shallower and more sheltered terrain, serving as a safe haven for young rays before they venture into deeper waters.
This discovery mirrors findings near the Galapagos Islands, where skate eggs were also found near hydrothermal vents, underscoring the vital role of volcanic heat in marine life cycles. The white skate rays' strategy of laying large, nutrient-rich eggs in volcanically active areas is a testament to evolutionary brilliance. The study of these deep-sea adaptations provides valuable insights into how marine organisms respond to environmental stressors, offering crucial knowledge for conservation efforts in the face of climate change and pollution.