Studies and Exploration of Hydrothermal Activity in Okinawa Trough

Abstract

Submarine hydrothermal activities have attracted great interests across broad disciplines since their discovery in 1970s. In recent, they are regarded to be potential resources of base, rare and even precious metals. Under such circumstances, at least three types of studies, investigations and explorations are conducted in Okinawa Trough: 1) exploration of ore minerals, 2) continental shelf survey and 3) academic studies. Here the authors briefly summarize recent discovery and achievements of above described projects.