Conical mud volcano

 

This is a conical mud volcano of fine-grained, grey sediment that rises within a mud pool. The top features a dark, circular opening, full of hot mud and sulphur deposits. A small opening has developed near the summit, creating a trail of flowing mud down the side of the cone. This mud volcano is formed by the eruption of mud and gases from underground reservoirs. The process involves pressurised water, heated by geothermal activity, mixing with fine-grained sediments to create a slurry. This slurry is then forced upwards through fissures and vents, building the cone-like structures as it accumulates and solidifies.