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Lookup NU author(s): Louise Tizzard
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Extensive areas of methane-derived authigenic carbonate (MDAC) have been mapped in the Irish Sea. In the Irish Sector, 23 seabed mounds associated with the Codling Fault Zone were identified by multi-beam echo sounder mapping. Inspection by ROV-mounted video showed that these mounds are rocky features rising 5-10 m above the normal seabed; sampling showed that they are comprised of quartz grains bound together by carbonate cement, probably MDAC. Two separate locations have been mapped in the UK Sector. At Texel 11, seabed mounds and a 6-8 m high cliff were mapped geophysically (MBES, SSS and seismic profiler surveys). Video surveys showed that both the mounds and the cliff are rocky reefs colonised by a prolific fauna. Samples proved to be carbonate-cemented sediments, and carbon isotope analysis (δ13C -41 to -46% PDB) showed that the cement was MDAC. Similar surveys of the Holden's Reefs area proved the presence of similar rocky reefs which are also cemented by MDAC. The total area covered by these two MDAC occurrences is estimated to be >500,000 m2. These MDAC occurrences are comparable in nature and formation to the 'bubbling reefs' of the Kattegat. As the bubbling reefs are "seabed features formed by leaking gas", one of the marine habitats identified by the European Commission's Habitats Directive as being sensitive and worthy of protection, it is suggested that the Irish Sea carbonate reefs should also be considered as special habitats. © Springer-Verlag 2007.
Author(s): Judd A, Croker P, Tizzard L, Voisey C
Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. Abstract)
Publication status: Published
Conference Name: 8th Int Conf Gas in Marine Sediments, Shallow Gas Group
Year of Conference: 2007
Pages: 259-267
ISSN: 0276-0460
Publisher: Geo-Marine Letters, Springer
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00367-007-0079-x
DOI: 10.1007/s00367-007-0079-x
Library holdings: Search Newcastle University Library for this item
ISBN: 14321157
