10-03-2016, 04:43 PM
SBH - I was actually wondering the same thing. We know seamounts can help provide environments that lead to enhanced marine life plus hydrothermal vents in, e.g., the mid-Atlantic ridge can support life without sunlight, so a combination of the two might explain the observation. However, as you mention, Lo'ihi is much farther offshore, so there may be no connection. Interesting possibility, though.