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A-68 Iceberg's Ocean Impact
The epic journey and environmental impact of the A-68 iceberg, one of the largest ever recorded, is explored, highlighting its effect on the Southern Ocean ecosystem and the implications for climate change.
Spanish
United Kingdom
Climate ChangeAntarcticaOceanEcosystemIceberg
Bbc FutureBritish Antarctic SurveyWoods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionUniversity Of SheffieldUs National Ice Center
Michael MarshallGeraint TarlingJonathan AmosRoseanne SmithGrant BiggClaudia CenedesePeter Fretwell
- What were the dimensions and initial journey of the A-68 iceberg?
- The A-68 iceberg, twice the size of Luxembourg, calved from the Larsen C ice shelf in 2017. Its three-and-a-half-year journey across the Southern Ocean captivated the world, raising concerns about its potential impact on South Georgia Island.
- How did the melting of the A-68 affect the surrounding marine ecosystem?
- The iceberg's melting released billions of tons of freshwater into the ocean, creating unique conditions that supported a thriving ecosystem. This included increased nutrient levels and blooms of ice algae, attracting zooplankton and potentially larger animals like whales.
- What were the initial concerns about the A-68's trajectory, and what ultimately happened?
- While initially feared to collide with and devastate the ecosystem of South Georgia Island, the A-68 ultimately broke apart and melted before causing significant damage. However, a portion did ground temporarily, potentially impacting the seabed.
- What methods did scientists use to study the A-68 and its impact, and what were some key findings?
- Scientists tracked the A-68's impact using satellites and robotic underwater vehicles. Their findings revealed a surprising lack of stratification in the surrounding waters, due to the immense volume of meltwater, and a potential increase in carbon sequestration in the deep ocean.
- What broader implications does the A-68's story have for the future, especially in the context of climate change?
- The A-68's journey serves as a microcosm of what may happen with increased melting of Antarctic ice due to climate change. Future studies are planned to better understand the large-scale effects of such events on ocean currents and ecosystems.