Incredible discovery in Antarctica.
Under the ice of the 8,700 square kilometer Ekström Ice Shelf, researchers find the “least disturbed habitat” on earth.
The scientists from Germany and Great Britain used hot water to “drill” holes in the ice, which is around 190 meters thick.
Under the ice they discovered liquid water – and life.
A total of 77 species of bryophytes cavort in the cold darkness.
“This discovery that so much life lives in these extreme conditions is a complete surprise and reminds us of how unique and special the Antarctic marine life is.” David Barnes, marine biologist
Investigations of dead remains on the sea floor show that the animals have been living in the hostile environment for 5800 years.
The research team suspects that plankton washed ashore by the current made life in the deep possible.
In connection with global warming, the researchers are concerned about the newly discovered habitat.
“The least disturbed habitat on earth could be the first habitat to become extinct when conditions under the ice shelf disappear due to global warming.” – Excerpt from research