Morphological variations in the polymetallic nodules from selected stations in the Central Indian Ocean

Abstract

Polymetallic nodules from the Central Indian Ocean largely range in size from 2 to 6 cm. The smaller nodules (4 cm) are subspheroidal to spheroidal in shape and with the increase in size, nodules become more discoidal and elongated. The size and relief of mammillae vary with the size of nodules. Polynucleate nodules are more abundant in larger size classes (6 cm) and in stations closer to the oceanic ridge. Density varies significantly with shape; less rounded nodules are denser than well-rounded ones