Vent Communities Under the Galapagos Islands Vent communities
are animals and plants that are found deep in the ocean near hot
water or geothermal vents. Vents are found where the tectonic
plates crack. Molten lava lies deep within the cracks and heats
up the water. This ecosystem is teeming with life. They are rich
in biodiversity. There are many species found near the vent
communities that are not found anywhere else at the bottom of
the ocean. Scientists discovered that these vents have hydrogen
sulfide coming out of them. The hydrogen sulfide provides
nutrients for the plants and animals. Vent animals have strange
characteristics. They are giants. An example is the tube worm
which grows to be nearly 3 meters long. They grow at a much
faster rate. Vent clams grow five times faster than regular
clams. (click to enlarge)