Ice fumaroles

Fumaroles are vents or openings that release hot volcanic gases and steam but do not emit liquids or solids.

On Mount Erebus, fumaroles warm the ground, with temperatures reaching up to 65°C. The steam and heat melt snow and ice – creating sources of freely available water. The volcanic gases are often rich in carbon dioxide and mineral compounds.

The warm, moist conditions created by fumaroles are vastly different to the extremely cold and dry conditions found elsewhere. They create unique habitats – ranging from exposed soils to subglacial ice caves and ice towers.

This image shows a scientist searching for algae on warm ground inside an ice-covered fumarole on Mount Erebus.

Photo by Paul Broady © Antarctica New Zealand Pictorial Collection, 1982–1983.