Loihi Seamount Targeted loci environmental

We propose 16s tag sequencing from subsurface fluid samples and microbial mats sampled directly above the venting fluids to further our understanding of subsurface microbial populations in a low sulfide, high iron hydrothermal environment, and to determine the extent of interaction between microbial communities in the subsurface diffuse fluids and seafloor microbial mats. We will test the following hypotheses:1. The subsurface microbial communities in the Hiolo area and Spillway area have different compositions that are related to local fluid chemistry, and2. The dominant species in microbial mats at Loihi Seamount are seeded by subsurface populations present in diffuse flow fluids. It is likely that the dominant mat species are present but not dominant in the subsurface, and bloom in the transition zone at the seafloor where warm, reduced anoxic fluids mingle with cool,oxic seawater.