Thriving Antarctic ecosystems found in wake of recently detached iceberg

Scientists explore a seafloor area newly exposed by iceberg A-84; discover vibrant communities of ancient sponges and corals.

Schmidt Ocean Institute



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A large sponge, a cluster of anemones, and other life is seen nearly 230 meters deep at an area of the seabed that was very recently covered by the George VI Ice Shelf, a floating glacier in Antarctica. Sponges can grow very slowly, sometimes less than two centimeters a year. Therefore, the size of this specimen suggests this community has been active for decades, perhaps even hundreds of years.

Researchers found flourishing ecosystems supporting an array of animal life, including corals, icefish, giant sea spiders, and octopus. The discovery offers new insights into ecosystem functioning beneath floating sections of the Antarctic ice sheet.view more

Credit: ROV SuBastian / Schmidt Ocean Institute

Method of Research

Observational study

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Thriving Antarctic ecosystems found in wake of recently detached iceberg

Schmidt Ocean Institute