Kiwi scientists have helped discover incredible new submarine volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean - some rising up to 2.5km from the seafloor. Knowledge about the history of the seafloor hosting these 80 volcanoes will provide information about how the volcanoes formed and why they are so highly active. During the expedition, the scientists discovered five new seafloor volcanoes on the Colville Ridge and the Havre Trough, with some rising up to 2,500m above the seafloor. "The ages and chemistry of the rocks are essential for reconstructing the past history of volcanism and faulting in Havre Trough," Hoernle said. "Understanding the train of events will help to tell the narrative of how New Zealand's vast offshore territory formed and evolved."

Source: New Zealand Herald April 23, 2017 04:41 UTC