Black smoker chimney fragments in Cyprus sulphide deposits

Abstract

Hydrothermal vent fragments have been identified in the brecciated ore from the massive sulphide deposits of the Troodos complex, Cyprus. They display mineral associations, textures and zonations similar to those observed in recently discovered hydrothermal vents forming on the ocean floor near the East Pacific Rise1–3, the Galapagos ridge4,5, the Juan de Fuca ridge6 and the Guaymas basin (Gulf of California)7. The high temperature 'black smoker' chimney walls are especially well preserved in Cyprus ore. Traces of fauna similar to that found near present-day vents are also present in these Cyprus samples. The differences between the present-day and fossil vents are mainly due to ageing.