Kylflöden

Kylflöden, also known as cold flows or cold seeps, are geological features where cold, low-density fluids, typically methane-rich, escape from the seafloor. These fluids are often associated with the decomposition of organic matter in deep sediment layers. Kylflöden are distinct from hydrothermal vents, which are characterized by hot, mineral-rich fluids.

Cold seeps are commonly found in areas with high concentrations of organic matter, such as continental margins and deep-sea trenches. They play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle by releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the water column and atmosphere. The fluids can also support unique ecosystems, including chemosynthetic bacteria and various invertebrates that thrive in the absence of sunlight.

The study of kylflöden is important for understanding the distribution and behavior of methane in the ocean, as well as the potential impacts of methane release on climate change. Researchers use various methods, including remote sensing, sediment sampling, and in situ measurements, to investigate these fascinating geological phenomena.