| Porthole 09 Feb 26

CHINESE scientists have uncovered entire colonies of life thriving more than 10 kilometres below the surface of the ocean, in conditions once thought impossible.

Unlike most organisms on Earth, which rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, these deep-sea inhabitants get their energy from chemicals like methane and carbon, according to reporting from science & tech title Futura.

This methane and carbon leaks through cracks in the ocean floor, and scientists believe it may sustain even more deep-sea communities that have not yet been found.

Scientists are also urging caution, as deep-sea mining practiced by nations like the United States and China could irreparably damage fragile ecosystems that we’re only just beginning to understand – or haven’t even found yet.