Scientists have discovered a thriving deep-sea ecosystem beneath a previously ice-covered region in Antarctica, following the dramatic break-off of Iceberg A-84 from the George VI Ice Shelf.
An international team from the Schmidt Ocean Institute explored the newly exposed seafloor in January using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian. To their surprise, they found sponges, anemones, hydroids, corals, octopuses, and fish a rich community that has likely existed for decades, or even centuries, despite being buried under 150 meters of ice.
Expedition co-chief Dr. Patricia Esquete from the University of Aveiro, Portugal, described the find as a rare and unexpected scientific moment, altering their research plans to seize the opportunity. The ecosystem was discovered at depths reaching 1,300 meters, revealing life that had survived for centuries with no direct access to surface nutrients.
Scientists believe that deep-sea nutrient rain and ocean currents may have sustained this hidden world, but much remains unknown. It could take years to identify all the new species found in this untouched environment.
This discovery provides valuable insight into how life thrives under extreme conditions and could help scientists better understand Antarctica’s hidden marine biodiversity as ice continues to melt due to climate change.