Scripps Oceanography scientists’ Aleutian margin exploration to study deep-sea ecosystems surrounding methane seeps off coast of Alaska [Video]

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A team of scientists from UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography is getting ready to explore the deep-sea ecosystems surrounding methane seeps off the coast of Alaska.

Scientists will be setting off in the Alvin submersible for the Aleutian Margin off the coast of Alaska, where very little is known about the diverse ecosystems in those waters.

The National Science Foundation and NOAA supported expedition is taking place from May 16 to June 7, 2024.

The Alvin submersible and team deployed from UC San Diego’s Nimitz Marine Facility in Point Loma on Friday at 2 p.m. PDT.

The Aleutian Margin off of Alaska is home to deep-water corals and known methane seeps — parts of the seafloor that leak methane.

Scientists say some organisms have evolved to consume methane, creating a unique ecosystem cut off from the sun that includes clams, worms, sponges, crabs, octopus, and fishes.

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