Cold Seeps and Methane Hydrates

Under certain pressure and temperature conditions gas molecules such as methane can crystallize with water molecules to an ice-like structure, so-called methane hydrates. At the MARUM institute in Bremen, scientists are working toward a better understanding of the role of methane hydrates for the deep-sea ecosystems, the global carbon cycle, and the stability of continental slopes. Methane hydrates have received special attention because the energy stored in them may be used by people in the future.