Analysis of hydrothermal mineralization characteristics and prediction of resource potential in the Okinawa Trough

This study focuses on the Okinawa Trough, a typical back-arc basin currently in the initial rifting and expansion stage, to systematically analyze the characteristics of its hydrothermal mineralization mechanism and evaluate its resource potential. As a promising western Pacific submarine hydrothermal mining area, it has ～20 discovered hydrothermal mineralization zones and serves as a modern analog for Japan’s Kuroko-type volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits. Using Earth system science, the study analyzes tectonics, magmatism, fluids, sedimentation, and microorganisms, revealing the trough’s “tectonics-fluids-sediments-microorganisms” multi-factor coupling mineralization, subverting the traditional view of mineralization controlled by a single factor. Tectonically, back-arc rifts and subduction ridges form mineralization zones via episodic activity. Fluids have dual sources (magmatic/seawater) with phase separation regulating properties and metal migration. Fluids-sediments interaction alters fluid chemistry for mineralization. Microorganisms matter in early mineralization and late alteration. The trough also enables initial on-site observation of modern Kuroko-type VMS formation, with its mineral assemblages, alteration zoning, and environment resembling ancient deposits—ideal for studying mineralization rules. Preliminary prediction shows large deposit scale, diverse types, and synergistic precious/base metal enrichment. Future exploration directions include subduction ridge extensions, deep concealed orebodies, fluid monitoring, and in-situ cultivation. This study advances back-arc basin hydrothermal mineralization theory and guides western Pacific resource exploration.