DISKO ISLAND´S MUD VOLCANOES

Mud volcanoes, found in the West Greenland basin, for example in valley floors in Nunavik, Nuussuaq and Disko, differ from traditional volcanoes. They don't result from molten rock in the Earth's mantle but rather from pressurized subsurface fluids within sedimentary rock reservoirs. Factors like overlying sediment weight, tectonic forces, or gas accumulation trigger this pressure increase in the deep sedimentary layers, which is crucial for mud volcano formation.
On Disko Island, these terrestrial mud volcanoes sit in areas where sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone and shale act as a seal and cover basaltic lavas. Faults or fractures breach the sedimentary seal, releasing trapped fluids and gases to the surface, forming mounds or cones of mud, as in northern Disko's Kuganguaq Valley, where several mud volcanoes align with such features.
Disko Island´s mud volcanoes, ranging from a few to tens of meters in size, display various shapes like cones, domes, or craters. Some actively emit gas bubbles or mud streams while others lie dormant. Geologically linked to deep petroleum and natural gas reservoirs, they release mainly methane, a potent greenhouse gas that has 28 times greater global warming potential than CO2. These volcanoes are often surrounded by pools or mud lakes with diverse colors due to mineral or organic matter presence. These areas host unique micro and macro fauna adapted to extreme conditions.