Microbiology and biogeochemistry of surficial sediments from axial and off-axis ecosystems in Guaymas Basin

Cold seeps and hydrothermal vents are seafloor habitats that are fueled by subsurface energy sources. Both habitat types coexist in Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California within a few miles from each other, and provide opportunities to compare microbial communities with distinct physiologies that are adapted to these conditions. Here we investigated several distinct, hydrothermally active sites within the frequently visited southern Guaymas Basin spreading center, and compare these to Octopus Mound, a more recently discovered seep site on the northern off-axis flanking regions of Guaymas Basin.