This thick covering of yellow and orange microbial mats was seen at the Yellow Top Vent site. These mats are up to 20 cm (8 in) thick and cover an area of approximately 10 sq m (12 sq yd). The inset (upper left) is a close-up of the mats showing their wispy filamentous texture. Notice how the orange color is enhanced in the close-up, as reds do not reflect as well through seawater. This is actually closer to the true color of the mat. Image courtesy of Submarine Ring of Fire 2004 Exploration, NOAA Vents Program.
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