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Mariana Plate
The Mariana Plate is home to the Mariana Trench, containing Challenger Deep - the deepest known point on Earth at approximately 10,994 meters below sea level. The Pacific Plate subducts beneath this small oceanic plate, creating this extraordinary depth. The Mariana island arc, formed by this subduction, features active volcanoes both above and below sea level, including hydrothermal vent systems that host unique deep-sea ecosystems.
Plate Information
Size: 0.36 million km²
Movement: Eastward
Speed: 2 cm/year
Countries: 2
Countries & Territories
Northern Mariana Islands (partial)
Guam (partial)
Key Facts
- Contains the Mariana Trench, Earth's deepest point
- Active subduction zone
- High volcanic activity
- Part of the Pacific Ring of Fire