Seamounts are underwater, extinct volcanoes that reach a height of greater than 1,000 meters. They are located in the abyssal zone. Seamounts can be found in each one of the world's oceans. The video on the 'Lesson' tab on the next page describes seamounts, and the plants and animals that live in, around, and on them. Seamounts not only illuminate geological processes - they are found at areas of hot spot activity and at plate boundaries - but, they also offer a unique habitat for a variety of organisms. Seamounts offer food and shelter that allows for an abundant and diverse ecosystem to thrive. The topography of seamounts creates ocean currents that inject cool, nutrient-rich water into the the upper ocean, stimulating the growth of algae and plankton which attracts more fish species, which in turn brings birds and dolphins to the area. The currents also bring organic matter and plankton to the seamount animals to consume, and clears the rocks of mud debris. The bare rocks that are exposed by the currents are much easier for corals to attach to. The 'Global Impact' tab describes processes that are threatening the well-being of the seamount ecosystems. It also discusses the important geological, biological, and medicinal purposes of seamount communities.