Vigorous black hydrothermal pool

 

This feature is one of many similar geothermal pools within the area, characterised by its striking black coloration and vigorous activity. The black coloration comes from iron sulphide minerals or organic material in the clay. The vigorous activity – visible as steam and gas emissions – indicates intense geothermal heating and the release of gases from the subsurface. This suggests a highly active hydrothermal system where hot fluids are rapidly circulating and interacting with the surrounding rock. These features are often acidic due to hydrogen sulphide gas oxidising to form sulphuric acid, which breaks down surrounding rock into clay minerals.