With the rising temperature, various changes are occurring in the climate all over the world. Similarly, the Antarctica continent which is an ice-covered landmass is showing the effects of rising temperature. The ice/ glaciers are melting very fast and the underwater life is impacted too. The climate conditions on this continent are not feasible for humans so it has been a topic of interest for researchers and scientists. The climate on the continent is coldest, driest, and windiest. Many countries have set up their research centers to understand the region and its ecosystem, to understand its effect on global processes, and to use this space to study. A total of 70 research stations are set up across the continent by 29 countries.
Nowadays researchers are working to know the effect of the melting of glaciers on the ecosystem or we can say the underwater living creatures. They have been studying a thriving underwater ecosystem for years. New technology, modeling, and technology help them to navigate through a decaying iceberg to reach their destination.
One of the professors at the University of Georgia Ms. Patricia Yager told that there are many icebergs on the continent of various sizes from small to large like big buildings and as tall as 300 feet above the waterline. Rising temperature or global warming is causing the rapid melting of these icebergs. Prior to the previous conditions, there is a lot of meltwater and more heat in the ocean. An iceberg named as Doomsday iceberg is the most unstable one which is the cause of worry as it can cause a high rise in sea level. In short, all these changing conditions are impacting our ecosystem too. Every small to the large creature on earth is going to be affected due to this.
For example, the Adelie penguins are dependent on sea ice and the ice is melting in western Antarctica. Because of this, the Adelie Penguins are leaving i.e. shifting to other areas with more sea ice while the other penguins with no need of sea ice are moving in. This means the ecosystem is shifting which in turn will affect the food web too. One break in the food chain will impact the whole food web thus affecting the whole ecosystem.
Yager mentioned that it is like a food pyramid which is a matter of balance. For example, we humans need proteins, grains, vegetables, and fruits. If we focus on one diet and do not maintain the balance, it will affect us.
If the climate conditions will continue like this it will not only affect the Antarctica ecosystem but also the ecosystem on the other continents too. Climate change has put a question mark on the life and existence of humans too. It is a loss to the whole world and it needs the attention of each of us. We individually need to work in this direction to save our environment. We are required to focus on activities that reduce carbon emissions and other greenhouse gases to reduce the effect of this problem of Global warming.