Abstract
Extensive aggregations of methanotrophic mussels (Mytilidae: Bathymodiolus-like) were found in a 60×300m zone on the 640m isobath of the Louisiana slope. Within the aggregations, living mussels occurred in dense curvilinear clusters up to 5m in length. Defunct clusters, consisting of gaping and disarticulated valves, were also common. Comparison of length frequency distributions and mean densities of mussel clusters demonstrated that recruitment of juvenile mussels was ongoing in certain clusters and completely lacking in others. Surface sediments within the zone were characterized by dark patches and linear depressions, apparently associated with seeping hypersaline fluids. Pore fluids in surface sediments contained elevated salt concentrations (289% of ambient sea water), concentrations of ammonia up to 1.6mM, and up to 3mM H 2S.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
