Detection of diffuse seafloor venting using a structured light laser sensor: 1. Development of a classification based detection method

Systematic and remote detection of diffuse hydrothermal venting is complex yet necessary to establish a comprehensive understanding the distribution, contribution, and context of fluid flow within hydrothermal systems. Diffuse flow is characterized by both low temperature and low flow rates and cannot be consistently distinguished during extensive systematic surveys using current vehicle-mounted visual, acoustic, or environmental sensors. The ROV-mounted structured light laser sensor is sensitive to fluid density anomalies and seafloor characteristics. Presented advancements to the detection algorithm include the development and implementation of intensity normalization routines and a support vector machine (SVM) classification algorithm. The resulting comprehensive maps establish the spatial distribution of potential hydrothermal vents and associated bacteria within a vent field.