Unearthing the past: Mysteries of the Melanesian Plateau revealed
An extraordinary structure has formed at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Scientists remain uncertain about its nature and continue to observe it. This structure, which is 120 million years old, could hold the key to Earth's history.
While humanity endeavours to unravel the mysteries of the universe and increasingly ventures into outer space, we have yet to uncover all the secrets our planet holds. Researchers are focusing on a remarkable structure hidden beneath the Pacific Ocean, whose surface area exceeds 200,000 square kilometres, roughly the size of Great Britain. This formation is known as the Melanesian Boundary Plateau.
An article published in "Earth and Planetary Science Letters" reveals that the MBP is a remarkable geological formation originating from the time of the dinosaurs. By examining rock samples extracted from this area, scientists have determined that the structure began forming in the Cretaceous period, about 120 million years ago.
This period witnessed a series of volcanic lava eruptions that gave rise to numerous underwater mountains. The following phase occurred between 56 and 34 million years ago, when volcanic activity led to the creation of new mountains and islands, which eventually eroded and submerged.
The third phase of the plateau's formation occurred between 23 and 5 million years ago, and its latest phase has been ongoing for approximately the last 5 million years, possibly continuing to the present day. Although the existence of this region has been known for some time, scientists note that many such formations develop over millions of years without significant environmental impact, limiting extensive research on the MBP thus far.
Recent analyses suggest that at least 25 distinct volcanic structures contributed to the formation of the plateau. However, to better understand the history and evolution of Earth, scientists must continue their research to verify whether the current stage of the MBP's development is truly the final one.
Exploring the mysteries of the MBP will also help scientists gain a better understanding of tectonic mechanisms, which are crucial for analysing the processes leading to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Numerous further expeditions will be necessary for scientists to gather more samples from this extraordinary geological "birthmark" on our planet.
