A massive iceberg that broke off from Antarctica’s Antarctic Peninsula in January revealed a hidden world beneath, complete with a stunning array of marine life and possible clues to the dynamics of ice sheets.
Scientists on a nearby research vessel seized the opportunity to explore the seafloor beneath the iceberg, finding octopuses, sea spiders, crustaceans, and more. The discovery provides new insights into the complex relationships between these organisms and their icy surroundings.
Dr. Patricia Esquete, a marine biologist from Portugal’s University of Aveiro, and Dr. Sasha Montelli, a glaciologist and geophysicist from University College London, led the expedition. Their findings shed light on the intersection of science and exploration in the frozen landscape of Antarctica.
The research vessel’s crew was fortunate to encounter the iceberg, which is estimated to be as large as Chicago. The team’s discovery not only highlights the diversity of life beneath the ice but also underscores the importance of continued scientific exploration in this remote and inhospitable environment.
Source: https://www.sciencefriday.com/segments/thriving-antarctic-ecosystems-iceberg-sponge