Definition, concept, occurrence, and recent developments in the study of mud volcanoes

Abstract

Mud volcanoes (MVs) are the topographic expression of a system that transports fluids and sediment from depth to the surface. They are capable of providing information from depths unreachable by current drilling techniques. MVs are commonly observed on land and offshore along convergent plate margins in volcanically active areas, oil fields, and areas of high sediment accumulation. Although previous studies have revealed source depths and compositions, a comprehensive understanding of their structure and mechanics remains elusive. Understanding of MVs has progressed, although their definition and associated terminology have changed over time. Further confusion has arisen with the Japanese usage of either doro-kazan or dei-kazan as translations of mud volcano. We apply a global interdisciplinary database of MVs from a range of modern tectonic regimes to maximize information from active MVs observed at sedimentary ocean floor in Japan. An ongoing multi-year MV studies has now progressed to a point whereby newly compiled observations and use of ocean floor seismic observatories may yield new insights into submarine MV activity. In addition, these terrestrial MV studies should enable further insights to be gained into Martian MVs and their implications for planetary sciences.