We characterize surficial seawater physico-chemical conditions and dissolved CO2 dynamics at the active volcanic system of Deception Island (Antarctica), with emphasis on identifying hydrochemical plumes associated with shallow sea hydrothermal vents (SHV). During the austral summers of 2024 and 2025, spatial surveys of pH, temperature, salinity, and total alkalinity were conducted along the inner coast of Port Foster. Acidification plumes (down to pH ~ 6.1), carbonate undersaturation, and elevated total alkalinity (2,400–7,000 μmol kg⁻1) were identified in areas affected by volcanic–hydrothermal emissions. Dissolved CO2 reached up to 90,000 μatm, with extreme values approaching 160,000 μatm, far exceeding atmospheric equilibrium. The results reveal a strong tidal control on CO2 dynamics in Port Foster, with low tide conditions enhancing nearshore accumulation and potential outgassing. Fluid compositions suggest mixed contributions from hydrothermal inputs, seawater, and meteoric components. These findings highlight the value of carbonate system parameters for detecting and monitoring SHV activity, and position Deception Island as a natural laboratory to investigate volcanic impacts on coastal ocean acidification under polar conditions.
Guerriero L., Llano J., Massenzio A., Seguel S., Echegoyen C., Medina M. L., Nuñez N. M., Lamberti M. C. & Agusto M. R., 2026. Surficial acidic and CO2 plumes in marine shallow hydrothermal vents of Deception Island active volcano, Antarctica. Sustainable Water Resources Management 12: 81. doi: 10.1007/s40899-026-01392-y. Article.
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