virus_sr

We request the use of a research vessel and ROV to collect sediment cores from a cold seep site. The site is located at Mississippi Canyon lease block 118 in the Gulf of Mexico. Cores will be retrieved and characterized through geochemistry, microbiology, and rate analysis. Coring operations will target seep related features, i.e. carbonates, oil stained sediment, tube worms, and methane bubbles. The cruise will encompass approximately 10 science days. Additionally, we request the use of a rad van for the use of 35S. The purpose of the research is to define the link between viral activity and sulfate reducing microorganisms.