Geological characterization of co-rich ferromaganese crusts over the northwestern pacific seamounts

We, jointly with universities and institutions (JAMSTEC, JOGMEC, GSJ) using marine geology vessels, submersibles, remotely-operated vehicle, an ocean-bottom drill machine, deep-tow TV camera as well as conventional dredges and corers, have observed, sampled, measured, and analyzed the ferromanganese crust deposits and characterized the morphology, composition, age, and growth history. The results demonstrate the diversity in distribution and nature of the deposits and relationships to microtopography and geological environment.