Abstract
This study examines subaqueous dunes located on the southern periphery of the flat top of Dokdo Seamount at water depths from 120 to 170 m where the present ocean currents are incapable of generating such large bedforms. To determine their origin, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the geomorphic characteristics using high-resolution multi-beam bathymetry and the grain-size characteristics of seafloor sediments. The analysis of the dune spacing in relation to height, as well as their migration and growth pattern, indicates that the Dokdo subaqueous dunes (DSDs) originally formed as aeolian dunes. These were shaped by northerly winter winds that carried sands from the wave erosion surfaces on the northern part of the flat top. The DSDs are believed to have transitioned to their current submerged state without experiencing significant erosion or reactivation. Considering the variations in the Plio-Pleistocene global mean sea level, we estimate the possible subsidence rate of the flat top to be approximately 130 m/myrs, aligning with the conditions required for the formation of DSDs. This study highlights how relict features such as submerged aeolian dunes on seamount summits can be utilized to precisely estimate the subsidence rate of oceanic volcanoes.
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The data presented in this paper is available upon request to the corresponding author.
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Acknowledgements
This study was supported by the project “Sustainable research and development of Dokdo (PG523501)” of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Korea. J.Bahk and S.Kim were also supported by research fund of Chungnam National University.
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Kim, SJ., Bahk, JJ., Kim, C.H. et al. Origin of Subaqueous Dunes on a Flat-topped Seamount, Dokdo in the East (Japan) Sea, Korea. Ocean Sci. J. 59, 26 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12601-024-00152-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12601-024-00152-3