Methane leaks from sea floor (IMAGE) Stockholm University Caption Methane leaks through the natural microbial filter when the methane transport suddenly increases in response to warming oceans and subsequent methane hydrate melting. The methane emissions depend on the sediment type; in fine-grained sediments such as clay, fractures form that lead to higher emissions. Illustration: Christian Stranne Credit Christian Stranne Usage Restrictions None License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.