To refine their model of deep-sea biological communities, the researchers investigated areas of the seafloor that are distant from any active hydrothermal vents. Which of the following is the best interpretation of the observation that some octopus species are only found near active hydrothermal vents?

octopuses depend indirectly on inorganic compounds in the sea water surrounding hydrothermal vents

Explanation:

Hydrothermal vents are locations where the superheated water erupts through the seafloor in a continuous stream, usually through a chimney formed by the precipitated minerals in the vent fluid. So inorganic compounds in the water erupted here are what octopuses depent indirectly on hence th reason why they are found there.