Exploring Toto Caldera in the Mariana Arc of Fire
In our first ROV dive of the 2025 expedition season, we visited Toto Seamount, located about 75 nm from Guam. The hydrothermal vent ecosystems here offer a unique opportunity to study chemosynthetic organisms living amongst the sulfur-rich plumes. We collected geological and biological samples during the 22-hour dive, helping scientists aboard and abroad to understand better the composition of the lava erupted at Toto Seamount and the unique conditions that foster life in these environments.
This photo album was created by Science Communication Fellow Kyle Menter.
Mattingan: Mariana Arc Volcanic Exploration
E/V Nautilus will begin the 2025 season exploring the ocean of the Mariana Islands- one of the most tectonically and volcanically dynamic locations on the planet. This area is home to one of the most active arc volcanic systems on Earth with more than 60 submarine volcanoes, and a back-arc spreading center where new seafloor is created.
