Submarine volcanic microbiota record three volcano-induced tsunamis

Abstract

The precise determination of sediment provenance not only yields insights into past tsunami events but also offers a window into understanding the genesis of tsunamis in distinct environments, such as volcanic regions. Through meticulous analysis of core samples from a lagoon in east of Korea Peninsula, we unveil three previously undocumented tsunamis and identify specific bacterial taxa associated with submarine volcanism during distinct periods. Specific bacterial species (Sulfurimonas_f and Alicyclobacillus ferrooxydans) and the presence of the silicoflagellate Dictyocha byronalis indicate deep-sea volcanic origins for certain sediment layers. The presence of microfossils, typically found in high-salinity pelagic environments during Event I, strongly supports the occurrence of a tsunami. These findings align with heightened volcanic activity on Ulleung Island during Event I and provide valuable chronological insights into submarine volcanic processes near Ulleung Island for Events II and III. Our study highlights these biological markers as crucial indicator for understanding past tsunamis arising from volcanic activity.