Tonga is a small archipelago located in the south pacific ocean that is home to some of the most spectacular sights in the world. From its picturesque beaches and lush tropical rainforests to its vibrant coral reefs and majestic whales, Tonga is a true paradise.
Another one of the island nation’s natural wonders lies in its undersea volcanoes, which have been active for millions of years and have helped shape the beautiful landscape of Tonga’s islands. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of Tonga’s undersea volcanoes, the unique geology of Tonga’s volcanic system, and the incredible biodiversity that can be found around the volcanic region.
What are the Undersea Volcanoes of Tonga?
Tonga’s undersea volcanoes are part of the Tonga-Kermadec subduction zone, a tectonic plate boundary that forms the boundary between the Australian and Pacific plates. The plate boundary is located to the east and southeast of Tonga, just off shore of the islands. This tectonic boundary is responsible for the activity of numerous undersea volcanoes in the region, including the famous Tonga-Kermadec arc. The Tonga-Kermadec arc comprises at least 136 volcanoes, stretching over 2600 kilometers and ranging in depths from 200 to 16,000 meters.
History of Tonga’s Undersea Volcanoes
It is believed that the Tonga-Kermadec subduction zone has been active for millions of years. Geologists believe that volcanic activity in the region began some 8 million years ago, when the sea floor was forced down into the Earth’s mantle. Over time, this created a series of deep sea trenches south and east of Tonga. Since that time, the volcanoes of Tonga-Kermadec have been gradually building up, most of them underwater.
Geology of the Tonga-Kermadec Volcanoes
The geology of the Tonga-Kermadec volcanic region is extremely complex and fascinating. At the heart of the system are two main magma types: basaltic and rhyolitic. Basaltic magma is lower in viscosity and erupts at a lower temperature and pressure. Rhyolitic magma, on the other hand, is higher in viscosity and erupts at higher temperatures and pressures. These different magma types, combined with other factors such as tectonic plates, mantle dynamics, and hot spot eruptions, have resulted in a variety of volcano shapes ranging from shield volcanoes, to stratovolcanoes, calderas and submarine eruptions.
Types of Volcanoes
-
Shield volcanoes: Shield volcanoes are the most common type of volcano in the Tonga-Kermadec region. They are usually quiet and nonexplosive, with a gentle slope of low relief. Shield volcanoes are created by the relatively low-viscosity basaltic magma, which is able to flow easily into the sea.
-
Stratovolcanoes: Stratovolcanoes are taller and more conical in shape than shield volcanoes. They are characterized by explosive eruptions of rhyolitic magma and typically feature high reliefs and steep sides.
-
Calderas: A caldera is an area of collapsed land that typically forms in the aftermath of an extreme eruption. Calderas feature steep and deep hollows, often round in shape, and are the result of massive amounts of rhyolitic magma being ejected from the ground.
-
Submarine Eruptions: Submarine eruptions are when volcanoes erupt underwater, sending showers of molten rock and plumes of ash, steam, and gas into the sea. These eruptions not only release large amounts of magma into the ocean, but also create huge plumes of ash and smoke that are visible from the surface.
Biodiversity around the Volcanoes
Tonga’s volcanic region is an incredibly rich and diverse ecosystem. A variety of reef-forming organisms live around the volcanoes, including sponges, barnacles, mollusks and corals. These organisms form the foundation of the marine food web and provide essential habitat and resources for a host of other species. Along with this, the volcanoes are home to a wide variety of fish species, some of which are endemic to the region and found nowhere else in the world.
Tonga’s undersea volcanoes are an amazing part of the country’s natural beauty, providing a unique and vibrant ecosystem with a rich biodiversity. From the unique geology of the Tonga-Kermadec arc to the fascinating biodiversity around the volcanoes, the region is truly a sight to behold. If you’re ever in the gorgeous kingdom of Tonga, make sure to take the time to explore this stunning underwater world.
