Seamount

A seamount in simple terms is a mountain rising from the sea floor that does not reach the surface of the ocean. Seamounts are usually found in chains. A classic example, one clearly demonstrating plate tectonics, is the Emperor Seamounts. Isolated seamounts and those without clear volcanic origins appear to be less common.

Seamounts often project into the shallower zone more hospitable to sea life, and thus provide habitats for marine species that are not found in the surrounding ocean. In addition to simply providing a bottom in this zone, the seamount may deflect currents and create upwelling. This birngs nutrients into the photosynthetic zone, producing islands of food production in otherwise desert-like open ocean. Seamounts may thus be vital stopping points for migratory animals. There is also evidence that some animals, particularly the large whales, may use seamounts as navigational aids.

Links:

• Volcanic History of Seamounts in the Gulf of Alaska
• Hydrographic structure and circulation at the Great Meteor Seamount showing an example of an isolated seamount and the formation of a submerged island of life.
• Seamount Oasis