
Cross-section over the top of Daikoku seamount with the results from a CTD tow (black line), showing anomalies in turbidity (warm colors indicate high particle concentrations) in the eruption plume. Image courtesy of Submarine Ring of Fire 2014 - Ironman, NOAA/PMEL, NSF
A team of scientists from Oregon State University and NOAA found evidence that the submarine volcano, whose top is about 300 m below sea level, is currently erupting (or at least has been very recently).
The expedition "Submarine Ring of Fire 2014 - Ironman" found this evidence in form of two observations: very strong plumes coming from the top of the seamount were detected that show characteristics that can only be explained by an eruption. During a previous survey in 2006, only hydrothermal activity, including the spectacular discovery of a liquid sulfur pond, were seen at the volcano.
Second, a comparison of bathymetric data shows that new craters have formed, something which also is difficult to explain other than by an eruption.

Pond of molten sulfur discovered in the bottom of a small crater (from the 2006 Submarine Ring of Fire expedition)

Bathymetric comparison of data collected at Daikoku summit on this 2014 expedition (top) and in 2003 (bottom). A large crater formed at the summit, and it was confirmed to be hydrothermally (and possibly volcanically) active by the CTD tow and midwater data collected on this expedition. (NOAA)
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