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The vastness and virtually unbounded domain of the ocean has inspired curiosity, fantasy, superstitions as well as fear. Through the growing understanding of the sea by humans, scientists have been able to make large advances in science and technology. In 1977 a three-person submersible alvin tank sank through the cold and inky darkness of the Pacific to find, nearly 8000 feet on the ocean floor, an underwater mountain range with newly formed hydrothermal vents. What they found was a whole new ecosystem. Down in this deep underworld, scientist found species where they thought no living thing could survive. The conditions are a harsh combination of toxic chemicals, high temperatures, high pressures, and total darkness. These animals have adapted to these conditions by a variety of ways, including body shape, bioluminescence, vertical migration and slow metabolism. Hydrothermal vents are underwater oases, providing habitat for many creatures that are not found anywhere else in the world. More then 300 species have been identified since the first vent was discovered. Deep sea hydrothermal vents form along mid-ocean ridges, the volcani