Underwater volcano still active and covered in a million giant skate eggs

Scientists have discovered an ancient underwater volcano (known as a seamount) covered in a million giant skate eggs in Pacific Canada. The volcano is spouting warm fluid, providing little-known species of skates with an ideal nursery. Scientists believe the geothermal heat helps incubate the eggs and speeds up development. The deep-sea Pacific white skate (Bathyraja spinosissima) was observed migrating from the abyss to the seamount summit to lay their eggs. These discoveries showcase the awesomeness of the deep and how much there is to learn. The 2023 Northeast Pacific Deep-sea Expedition objective focused on science that will contribute to a better understanding of remarkable and fragile ecosystems and inform marine conservation planning. The expedition and science was co-created by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Council of the Haida Nation, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, Pacheedaht and Quatsino First Nations, and Ocean Networks Canada. This expedition was a United Nations Ocean Decade endorsed activity and will contribute to our understanding of the deep through the Challenger 150 initiative. Join the expedition and follow #nepdep @nepdep_