Closeup of the surface of an extinct hydrothermal spire probably composed of
various sulfide minerals. Note white brittle star on this spire, a type of
fauna hardly ever noted in proximity to active venting.
Image ID: expl6478, Voyage To Inner Space - Exploring the Seas With NOAA Collect Photo Date: 2011 July 17 Credit: NOAA Okeanos Explorer Program, Galapagos Rift Expedition 2011
