New Undersea Ecosystem Discovered Beneath Hydrothermal Vents

Robot discovered abundant and bizarre animal life beneath hydrothermal vents, previously thought inhospitable.
Life found by overturning volcanic bedrock, revealing tubeworms and other creatures.
Deeper ocean floors are warmer, have less oxygen, and more toxins, making animal life surprising.
Experts believe shallow subseafloor acts as conveyor belt for microbes, nutrients, and animals.
Discovery raises questions about deep-sea ecosystems and links between animals and microbes.