Randomized trial shows that a new animal-microbe ecosystem effectively removes methane in the deep sea, suggesting natural mitigation is faster than thought.
Key Points
This study aimed to assess how quickly a methane-consuming ecosystem can develop in response to human-induced methane leaks in the seabed.
Conducted multi-year, in situ monitoring of a methane seep
Performed integrated biogeochemical and molecular analyses
Measured methane removal rates in mixed sediment zones
Establishment of a methane biofilter occurred within 1-2 years
Active methane removal rates ranged from 30-60 mmol/m2/day
Findings indicate significant ecosystem responses to methane leakage, with rapid maturation.