Yes, you read that headline correctly: NASA observed an eruption of the “Sharkcano” volcano in the Solomon Islands – also known as Kavachi Volcano, one of the most active underwater volcanoes in the Pacific. In 2015, Kavachi and its harsh aquatic environment were discovered to be the unlikely habitat of two species of shark (among many others): the scalloped hammerhead and the silky shark. Kavachi was dubbed “Sharkcano” after that — and now that the Sharkcano has erupted, NASA has been able to get a look at it.
Satellite imagery taken on May 14 by NASA’s Earth Observatory and Operational Earth Image 2 on Landsat 9 monitored the shifting water eruption from Kavachi volcano. The volcano was continuously active between April and May according to NASA; Previous eruptions were recorded in 2014 and 2007. The eruptions of the Sharkcano volcano are so large (often emitting smoke and ash) that they are part of the local culture: for example, Fangono Island in the north refers to itself as Rejo te Kvachi (“Kavachi’s Kiln”) ).
The name isn’t just a bragging: Cavacci volcano leaves the surrounding waters super-heated and filled with sulfur, acid, and other volcanic rock fragments and materials. The fact that sharks are able to live in such an environment made it clear to biologists that some kind of mutation may have occurred within the species out there:
“Our observations of secondary and tertiary consumers within the Kavachi hydrothermal column contribute to ongoing research into the physiological and behavioral resilience of marine animals to increasing temperature, acidity, and turbidity,” Scholars’ books. “This is very relevant in the context of climate change, as well as increased water turbidity and sediment suspension from deep-sea mining activities. An ecosystem supported by the harsh environment of the Kavachi crater may provide clues to animal species that have survived major past changes in ocean chemistry, and which ones will thrive in future ocean conditions.”
The term “Sharkcano” obviously sparks ideas for things like the infamous Sharknado movie series, which also marries real-world environmental disasters to insane shark habitats. But sadly, that’s just nature at work – with a crazy habitat for sharks lounging in.
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