APPLICATION OF METHANE SUPPLY PROCESS UNIT IN MASS BALANCE ECOSYSTEM MODEL AROUND COLD SEEPAGE

摘要

Natural cold seepages are characterized as rapid upward transports of methane from deeper parts of geological structures to the seafloor. The original methane supply source is expected to locate below BSR (Bottom Simulating Reflector). The methane moved up to seafloor is mainly consumed by microorganisms living in anoxic marine sediments. When the methane supply is very large or rapid, remaining unconsumed methane escapes into the water column and is consumed by oxidizing bacteria. The supply mechanism of methane from the supply source to the cold seepages has not yet being clarified. In order to integrate the methane consumption processes in sediments and water column, a simple methane supply mechanism is developed.